The course is divided into three sections. The first addresses the implementation of strategy and the importance of aligning human resource practices so that they are internally consistent and produce the skills and behaviours required to make the strategy work.

The second section addresses a number of key HR levers available to managers in the development of an effective work system, including investing in people (training and development), participation and involvement (team-based systems), measurement and incentives (compensation), and information sharing.

The third section of the course provides a summary and integration, illustrating how firms have succeeded or failed at tapping the potential of their work force.