Chapter 8: Training and Development in Virtual Organizations

Training and development practices in virtual organizations need to emphasize not only learning related to knowledge acquisition, skill development and behavior change, but also knowledge sharing and linking to resources. The chapter begins with a discussion of how to identify the competencies that employees need to be successful in virtual organizations (e.g., adaptability and flexibility). We discuss how to effectively design and use training and development practices to create and share knowledge and facilitate learning. These practices include web-based training, e-learning, action learning, knowledge management systems, on-the-job experiences, and relationships (including communities of practice and mentoring). The characteristics of a career management process that can be used to motivate and retain employees in virtual organizations is discussed. The chapter concludes by identifying research needs that, will advance knowledge of training and development in virtual organizations.