Using an applied learning centre as a vehicle for culture change

Abstract

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to demonstrate how a learning centre can be designed as a transformational vehicle to align the culture with the organization's mission and vision to achieve competitive advantage.

Design/methodology/approach

In the setting of international clinical development in a major pharmaceutical company, this paper first describes the change strategy and tactics used in designing a learning centre. Then, the overall framework for integrating learning into day‐to‐day work is described as well as the specific methods used for bringing about this integration.

Findings

The patient‐centered approach and continuous learning and improvement environment result in exploring, managing, and mitigating risks and optimizing benefits to the patient. Clearly, this change strategy is pivotal to achieving the company mission, and it enables international clinical development to exceed industry standards.

Originality/value

The paper shows how to design and implement a learning centre as a vehicle for culture change.

Citation

Riedinger, J. (2008), "Using an applied learning centre as a vehicle for culture change", VINE, Vol. 38 No. 1, pp. 95-103. https://doi.org/10.1108/03055720810870914