Methodology
Lake and Ulrich (1992) argued that best practices must be based on
theory, not tools. Th ey added that HR best practice is more a process than
an event; it is an integration of theory and tools, and it is focused on the
future rather than on past business demands. Th ose who learn from best
practices recognize that they are multidimensional.
Th e research took place in a three phases. First, the planning phase of
the study began with a literature review. Th is was followed by data collection
tool creation. Th e researchers conducted a secondary literature review
to fi nd more than 50 examples of companies using best practices in technical
talent management. Th e planning phase of the study culminated with a
kickoff conference call with the study sponsors (these were the companies
that funded the research, not the companies selected from the list of 50).
During the call, sponsors provided input into the draft data collection