Interactive entertainment will change more in the next five years than it has in the past 45. That prediction by Electronic Arts CEO Andrew Wilson is indicative of most trends in technology-driven industries today. EA, featured in this issue of CTDO, uses predictive analytics to better serve its customers' unique and ever-changing gaming interests. Likewise, the company's talent development function, led by vice president of learning, engagement, and performance, Humera Malik, has traded its one-size-fits-all approach to learning for a strategy known as LEAP.
"We shifted our focus to talent development aligned with our new business strategy and the employee experience," Malik says. "We went from trying to offer everything for everyone to a business-oriented set of strategic offerings that fit our changing culture."
In the Spotlight article, Malik explains how her team works hard to contribute to EA's culture of inclusion and authenticity. This move away from cookie-cutter best practice implementation and toward unique culture creation is one I am seeing more of in the talent development space overall. For example, research cited in this issue's State of TD highlights how talent development can help to protect and shape organizational culture.
Do you align your TD strategy with culture norms and aspirations? In Hot Topic, Britt Andreatta explains how to use the Greiner Curve to identify where your organization exists in its pattern of growth, and where it's headed. This organic development cycle can help you anticipate business needs and be ready with the right learning and talent solutions.
Other topics covered in this issue include proving the power of soft skills and preventing burnout. And don't miss our take on the ever-popular debate: To give or not to give a performance appraisal?
Thank you for your interest in CTDO magazine, full of essential insight for leaders like you. As always, I'd love to hear your feedback about this issue. What article was your favorite? Which column is most beneficial in helping to inform your role as a talent development executive? Please contact me at any time with your thoughts.
Read more from CTDO magazine: Essential talent development content for C-suite leaders.
