Article summary
Employees worldwide offered thousands of suggestions on how IBM can improve its practices, policies and operations during WorldJam 2004. Some of those ideas are already in practice. Matter of Fact is an ongoing series that addresses some of the programs already place that align with employee suggestions. |
WorldJam 2004 generated many suggestions about how IBM can improve its practices. Several IBMers suggested extending the IBM Academy of Technology to clients, engaging with specific clients and helping them create their own Academy.
The IBM Academy of Technology was established to identify and pursue technical developments and opportunities relevant to IBM's business. Its membership consists of the top technical leaders from around the world who are working in research, hardware and software development, manufacturing, applications, and services. The goal is to improve IBM's technology base and its application in successful products, solutions and services. The Academy advances the understanding of key technical areas, fosters communication among technical professionals and provides executives with focused technical input.
While the IBM Academy of Technology does not actively promote itself to external companies, it is happy to assist clients who are interested in creating academies for their own organizations. The IBM Academy can provide materials that describe its purpose, charter, and operation and would be pleased customize these materials to meet clients' needs. The IBM Academy can also act as a consultant after a client has established an Academy of its own.
The Academy offers opportunities for other IBM employees to participate by establishing an affiliate program. Academy affiliates are regional groups, whose membership consists of Academy members, technical leaders and potential leaders. Activities vary from technical education, specific studies and networking. Affiliates act on behalf of the Academy by serving the regional technical community and promoting the activities of the Academy within their communities. Affiliates may also assist clients in their designated regions by providing presentation materials to assist with the creation of the clients' Academy.
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