Again this links back to Investors in People. If electronic communications have a role to play in supporting the delivery of the organisational goals, this role should similarly be built into the organisation's plans. The advantage of a management approach characterised by proper planning and review is that the support provided will be based on needs and priorities. E-comms and communication New technology has widened the possibilities for learning as well as for communication, review, planning and effective management. Computer based training and the volumes of information available through the Internet and Intranets have made individual learning opportunities both more extensive and more flexible in terms of the time and resource needed.
Employees find it easier to promote their expertise and access that of others.
They are now free to receive and send messages to all levels of the organisation but also face a barrage of information, which has the potential to result in overload and reduced productivity. Investors in People looks not only at what the employer does to convey the messages, but the way in which they are received and understood. In particular, a large part of the Standard is about the communication of management commitment and vision throughout the organisation. If employees are aware of what is required of them and the ways in which the organisation intends to support them in achieving it, internal communication is clearly working. Again, by using the framework of the Standard and ensuring that communication takes place in the true sense of the word with understanding as well as delivery - an organisation is fundamentally better equipped to manage the new technologies.