Investors in People

1. What is It?

1.1 Investors in People is a Standard that goes far beyond simple training activities.

The formal Standard uses the three principles of plan, do and review, and a series of 'indicators' that are used to assess whether your company meets the Standard. The 'indicators' are:

• Business strategy (see 2).
• Learning and development strategy (see 2).
• People management strategy (see 3).
• Leadership and management strategy (see 3).
• Management effectiveness (see 3).
• Involvement and empowerment (see 4).
• Learning and development (see 4).
• Recognition and reward (see 4).
• Performance measurement (see 4).
• Continuous improvement (see 5).

1.2 Investors in People is a tool for developing your employees to meet your business objectives and can also be used as a tool to manage change.

• Comparing the way you manage your business against the Standard highlights your weaknesses and opportunities for development.
• Working towards the Standard improves your business performance.
• Achieving the Standard demonstrates to customers and employees that you are striving to be the best.

1.3 Working towards the Standard brings specific improvements in:

• Employees' motivation, skill levels, flexibility and ability to learn.
• Managers' communication, performance management and coaching skills.
• Working practices, quality and productivity.
• Profitability and control of costs.
• Customer service and customer satisfaction, and meeting quality and supply standards.
• The company's ability to plan and to respond to change, including new customer requirements.

1.4 Achieving the Standard brings additional benefits.

• The Standard provides a basis for continuing improvement.
• You can promote your company as a recognised Investor in People.