HC Global

The main thrust of this 300-page report by Flair Loop consultancy boils down to the creation of a number of special focus Institutes. These include
ITT (Institute of Training Technicians - NVQ),
ICL (Institute of Coaching and Learning),
ITD (Institute of Training & Development),
IPM (Institute of Personnel Managers),
WIPP (Womens Institute of Personal Practitioners)
ICBS (Institute of Compensation and Benefit Specialists), IDES (Institute for Diversity, Equality and Sensitivity),
ILM (Institute of Labour Management and not to be confused with the Institute of Leadership and Management),
IES (Institute of Executive Search not to be confused with Institute of Employment Studies),
IR (Institute of Recruitment), ASHED (Association of Senior HR Executives and Directors).

A number of other Institutes already exist such as the HCMI (Human Capital Management Institute) and various others which are also referenced as alternatives. The report does suggest that some mergers may take place in future due to the sheer number and complexity.

Some readers may find some of the recommendations ironic given the recent announcement and subsequent rejection of the newly proposed Equality and Diversity body, for example. Some may be pleased to return to previous days?

But there is a catch. The downside to all of this is that all the new bodies will have to re-apply for Chartered status which could take several years though a fast-tracking idea is put forward. A considerable number of pages are devoted to the transitioning process for individual members.

A new APPL (Accredited Prior Professional learning) process is to be in place for 2009. This will be more in depth than the current APL and will include multiple 'live' assessments alongside a new multiple exam process (recommended 12 hours).

Practitioners will be able to belong to more than one Institute though the report stops short on elaborating the cost of each membership. CIPD will remain as administrative overseer of this new Institute industry. CPD requirements will also change to accomodate this expansion.

The report goes on to say that this new way forward should provide HR practitioners with more gravitas in that they wil be able to obtain more letters after their name by gaining accreditation with the various Institutes of their choice.

Other interesting recommendations include:

CIPD Enterprises is to go public with a special one-off dividend paid to be distributed to all members. CIPD research is to be split across the various Institutes and will cease centrally.

All current branch network activity is to be replaced with new activities of each body. This may have some effect locally and a series of debate sessions is planned to coordinate transition.

Finally, the report also recommends that to commemorate this event (date to be agreed) a bronze statue of Dave Ulrich will be erected at CIPD's HQ at 151 The Broadway Wimbledon.

Interesting times, for those sharp-eyed amongst you - more comment on this tomorrow...............