Management cybernetics

Citation

Rudall, B.H. (2000), "Management cybernetics", Kybernetes, Vol. 29 No. 2. https://doi.org/10.1108/k.2000.06729baa.006

Management cybernetics

Keywords: Automation, Cybernetics, Research, Technological developments

Abstracts:Reports and surveys are given of selected current research and development in systems and cybernetics. They include: Interdisciplinary research, Innovations, Formal methods for safety-critical systems, Biocybernetics, Internet access for all, Management cybernetics, Cybernetics and automation, Shrinking the robot.

Management cybernetics

1. A new case studies Web site

How should a manager deal with one of her team's poor performance? Has an organisation behaved unfairly in selecting a particular staff member for redundancy? What is the best reward strategy to improve productivity?

Practical human relations (HR) issues such as these will form the basis for study and analysis by the users of a new online service from the Institute of Personnel and Development[1]. The IPD has launched an Internet-based learning aid designed to give students and their lecturers instant access to a wide variety of case study examples and exercises on people management topics.

Edited by the IPD's chief examiner Professor Mick Marchington and a team led by Stephen Taylor of Manchester Metropolitan University, the Case Studies Club covers areas such as employee development, equal opportunities, reward management and employee relations. Professor Marchington believes that:

Case studies are an invaluable tool in helping develop the practical skills and understanding that complement the theory of people management. Through my own work with students and tutors I am aware of the widespread demand for practical examples to support learning. This new Internet service will provide easily accessible information to suit individuals' needs.

Introduced in 1999 with an initial database of 50 case studies, the service is being built up so that subscribers will have access to hundreds of different practical examples covering all aspects of personnel and development. These can be downloaded and used for role plays, individual assignments or group exercises.

The Case Studies Club has separate sites for students and tutors. Students will find case study examples alongside searching questions about how to tackle a variety of potential problems. The site for tutors contains additional notes to help with feedback and discussion, including guidance on the key issues to address and possible answers.

The new service can be used in a variety of ways. Annual subscriptions for students, tutors or colleges allows unlimited usage -- or users can request individual case studies for a one-off payment.

Those wanting to get a taste of the new online service can visit www.ipd.co.uk/publications

For further information please contact Case Studies Club on www.ipd.co.uk/publications and for general information about IPD books or the Case Studies Club contact the Publications Department on 0181 263 3387 or visit the IPD Web site on www.ipd.co.uk

Note

1. 1.

   The Institute of Personnel and Development (IPD) has nearly 100,000 members and is the leading professional institute for those involved in the management and development of people.