Chapter 12, Remaking Crotonville to Remake GE Summary and Analysis

Jack's vision for the Crotonville training facility is to revitalize it, making it a world-class center where ideas are spread in an open environment without the interference of layers of hierarchy. Jack wants programs that connect with managers deep in the organization. In 1981, in the midst of portfolio restructuring and company downsizing, Jack asks the Board for $46 million to overhaul and expand the facility. The payback, Jack tells the Board, is, infinite. With the Board's approval, Crotonville becomes GE's most important learning factory. Instead of using other companies' case studies in instruction, real GE issues are used. Class and field leadership development courses such as executive development, business management and management development for fast-trackers, are central. Restructured classes become action-oriented. Courses become an important indication of achievement. Crotonville's curriculum shows GE...