By Bob GarrattThe author argues that “Our people are our greatest asset? is the most commonly heard yet greatest lie of working life.” The book outlines twelve organisational capabilities for any organisation to measure regularly if it wishes to establish credibility in the critical area of effective people management. Essential reading for almost all organisations.

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The results of a survey published by KPMG Consulting reveal that although the Internet is an ideal way for public service organisations to communicate with pensioners, only 11 per cent of the older people surveyed had considered this as a potential use of the Internet. The report, Silver Surfers: the power of older people online, highlights the need for public service organisations to target Britain’s over-60s if the government is to meet its objective of enabling universal online access to public services by 2005.Citizens of pensionable age represent about 18 % of the population and the results of the survey demonstrate the keen interest in using the Internet. Almost 70% who do use the Internet do so to keep in contact with friends and family through email. Almost half the users are using it for education and hobbies and 35% for holidays and leisure services.

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Central government has been slow to follow the example of the successful beacon schemes operated by local councils, NHS trusts and the police. When the selected organisations open their doors for peer group visits in February 2000 it will be almost two years since the commitment to do so appeared in the Modernising Government White Paper published in March 1999.Beacons established in other areas of public service have demonstrated that new strategic thinking, good practice and innovation can be shared effectively with colleagues facing similar challenges. In addition to site visits, the achievements of the beacons are shared through secondments, workshops, focus groups, production of case study material and general networking.

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