The tools of management

Abstract

Management and leadership phenomena can be studied from many different angles - and different management schools have done so. Viewing management from the perspective of what 'tools' managers need, is a very pragmatic and practical approach. For the purpose of this presentation, we have chosen to link the concept of tool to the notion that managers need to master different kinds of skills. We assume that appropriate tools will improve leadership skills and thus organization performance. The tool which is chosen for demonstration in this paper is furthermore presented as a standard module as we design them in the HRD unit in CWS/EHE. The module format is in itself a tool for managers in their roles as trainers and coaches of learning in their organizations. So, in a way, what is being presented here is a 'double-tool': a substantial tool that can be used in real work contexts and a general 'format'/way of designing and presenting new information.