Company‐based Projects: Using Action Learning to Develop Consultancy Skills

Most Master′s Degrees in Management include a research project. A dissertation is normally required which sets the managerial problem under investigation within the context of the subject and explores possible wider implications. However in manufacturing industry, management consultants are increasingly being used to solve problems and act as change agents. Describes a major course exercise that focuses specifically on consultancy and managerial problem solving. The exercise is unusual in that it is company‐based and relies heavily on action learning. Since the course participants are practising managers, the exercise represents a major piece of management development.