TY - JOUR AB - Purpose–In the first of two articles, describes the unusual HR practices that have brought success to UK computer‐training company Happy Computers.Design/methodology/approach–Explains how the company has a no‐blame culture, trusting its people and giving them genuine freedom to do things the way they think is best, while providing a clear framework in which to operate.Findings–Highlights the importance of experimentation to learning and innovation, and of giving people the information they need to take responsibility.Practical implications–Outlines a refreshing approach to human‐resource management that many larger companies could learn from.Originality/value–Advances the view that a degree is rarely a key requirement in any job outside of universities. VL - 16 IS - 5 SN - 0967-0734 DO - 10.1108/09670730810888438 UR - https://doi.org/10.1108/09670730810888438 PY - 2008 Y1 - 2008/01/01 TI - Empowerment breeds contentment at Happy Computers: Employees encouraged to trust their own judgment T2 - Human Resource Management International Digest PB - Emerald Group Publishing Limited SP - 12 EP - 14 Y2 - 2024/04/25 ER -