This Executive Research Brief is a condensed study highlighting the findings from 249 organizations concerning their practices surrounding leadership development and executive education. The need for innovation and growth is critical in the current business environment and organizations realize the fast track to success is achieved by building strong leaders. Therefore, it should come as little surprise that almost half of all firms reported an increase in leadership development and executive education spending in this survey.

As large numbers of senior leaders retire, organizations are developing practical ways in which leadership teams can face the growing challenge of talent management. Accelerated leadership development programs are an increasing part of leadership development strategies in the private and public sector as organizations seek to fast-track leaders. According to respondents, computer simulations and virtual environments are also on the rise. Using these tools, companies are having future leaders grapple with real business problems and role-play client engagements.

The learning development and executive education themes addressed in this Executive Research Brief are:
•    Alignment and integration.
•    Budgets.
•    How leaders are developed.
•    Measurement and effectiveness.