Gap Embraces E-LearningGap Embraces E-Learning

Maximize Success
The course helps Gap IT managers select from a range of approaches to use in managing individuals, Riley says. For instance, a longtime employee might be considered a superstar for projects that require certain programming skills. However, when that person is assigned to a project that requires a different set of skills, he or she may need more guidance than usual, he says. "Managers need to recognize that and then provide the necessary direction for that person--as well as the project--to maximize success," Riley says.

The person who's usually a superstar may not perform so well in unchartered territory, Riley says. And in those cases, the manager must be ready to steer that person in the right direction for success, such as having him or her partner with a subject expert. "The course offered many 'aha' moments," reinforcing a lot of what might be intuitive to some managers but not to all, he says.

Managers also learn to address issues related to teamwork and morale building, and how to deal with troubled employees. The course also addresses how to better resolve conflicts among staffers.

The E-learning instruction cost about $120 per person, Orr says, and Gap already has seen a return on its investment. An IT employee survey shows 65% believe there's already been an improvement in managers' leadership abilities to help people working for them develop skills.