Post-reforms training needs of frontline managers in Indian power distribution companies : A top managers’ perspective

Purpose The purpose of this paper is to assess the training needs based on top management view point for the development of frontline managers (FLM) of Indian power distribution companies (DISCOMs). Design/methodology/approach DISCOMs’ top managers were interviewed to develop questionnaire items. A total of ten items were identified; the response from the middle managers and FLM were collected with the help of a questionnaire on a five-point Likert type. The Cronbach’s alpha, face and content validity of instrument were performed. The sample population was 364 based on stratified probability proportional to size (PPS) sampling. The statistical tool used for data analysis was chi square through SPSS package. Findings Top management of DISCOMs for developing training program emphasizes on 10 organizational items. Which when assessed with middle and FLM of DISCOM, the results indicated a disagreement between their opinions suggesting practical implications on training need analysis at these DISCOMs. Research limitations/implications The emphasis of top management for identifying the FLM training needs only acknowledges the work environment and customer requirements, whereas the personal and task related factors (other than customer services) affecting their performance are overlooked. Originality/value Reforms in the Indian power sector have been introduced only 26 years back. This study explicitly focuses on the DISCOMs at the central India. Present viewpoint of top management on the competency and training needs of their FLM. The Cronbach’s alpha and discriminant validity has been performed.