Action Learning Success Stories

Constellation Energy

Constellation Energy has developed a cadre of Action Learning coaches who are available to managers whenever a critical challenge or problem emerges for which they would like a quick and creative strategy.  Constellation has used Action Learning to address issues such as work schedules, plant safety and organizational structuring.

US Department of Agriculture

The US Department of Agriculture initiated its first action learning programs in 2001 to develop leaders in their Washington, D.C. and State offices. High-potential officials identified the three leadership skills which were most important to them and developed these skills while working on important USDA problems.  Subsequent research showed that all officials developed the skills they had identified. The US Department of Agriculture has expanded the use of Action Learning to build teams and to change the corporate culture.

Boeing

Boeing has utilized Action Learning as the key tool for developing their high potential leaders. Action learning teams have developed strategies for major global corporate challenges relative to Boeing’s projects in China, Australia, Italy, Germany and Korea. The Executive Council has found Action Learning teams to be so innovative and successful that they have offered these teams the latitude to select action learning projects, a decision that previously rested in the HR department.  Post-project research has shown Action Learning participants exercising 2-3 years later the leadership skills gained during their action learning projects.

Toyota

Long after the Lexus brand was popular in the US, it had yet to be marketed and sold extensively in Japan.  Coaches trained in WIAL methodology guided Toyota Action Learning teams that developed comprehensive marketing strategies.  Now, Toyota credits Action Learning with the success of its Lexus-Japan program.

Fairfax County Public Schools

A Readers Digest Foundation Grant supported the introduction of Action Learning to all new Principals and Assistant Principals in the Fairfax County, Virginia Public School System.  These principals used Action Learning to solve school problems and to introduce the questioning and team elements of Action Learning into the classroom. Action learning was also introduced to non-teaching personnel, with great success. One Action Learning group composed of a maintenance supervisor, two finance assistants, a customer service supervisor and an administrative assistant developed a comprehensive orientation program for individuals new to support services.  The Country Superintendent deemed the plan one worthy for emulation by all school leadership across the county.