DEVELOPING AN ACTION PLAN
Following the assessment of the HRD components in this instrument, the group should discuss the results and agree on areas which need strengthening.
Once these are identified and agreed to, an Action Plan is developed. The criteria specified for each component in this HRD Assessment Instrument will provide data
on which to base your Action Plan. Successful change is a gradual process, so it is better to set realistic goals and try to move from one stage to the next in incremental
steps. If many areas need to be addressed, focus on what is most practical and achievable given the available human and financial resources. Consider where you can
have the biggest impact. For example, updating job descriptions can also provide a basis for performance evaluation, supervisory roles and staff training. Your Action
Plan should specify activities, time lines and identify the persons responsible. Other elements to consider include:
< Securing commitment of leadership: The leadership of your organization should lead the effort and actively support your activities, especially in regard to
potentially difficult decisions regarding the use of human and financial resources.
< Allowing sufficient time: Realistic expectations are often the key to success. Improvements are often incremental and cumulative and sustained change takes
time.
< Managing change: Organizational change is often met with resistance. Use the addendum on the following page to assess your organization’s capacity to
manage and implement change.