1.The Performance/Integrity Workgroup at the 2000 Academy of Human Resource Development conference sculpted the following definition: The purpose of human resource development (HRD) is to enhance learning, human potential and high performance in work-related systems. This chapter argues that this definition is incomplete and must include the notion of sustainable human development. Thus, the purpose of human resource development is defined as the capacity to enhance learning, human potential and high performance in work-related systems and
contribute to sustainable human development. Pursuing this purpose is vitally important: at no time in history has HRD been called upon to play a more fundamental and key role in solving critical economic and social problems faced by communities, organizations, and nations. As a consequence, HRD is being challenged to pursue an extensive and expanding agenda of objectives. This chapter offers a framework that effectively captures the breadth and complexity of objectives addressed by HRD as a field of practice. Within this framework, two critical mission level objectives are offered as guideposts for HRD practice.