If your organization is like most, a guiding question for your 2015 planning will likely be some version of this question: “What kinds of training & development programs should we choose that will help ensure we are able to attract and retain talented employees, as well as prevent regrettable attrition, within our organization in 2015 and beyond?” What follows is a snapshot of some of the most popular training topics for 2014 and into 2015, along with a brief explanation of how they can each be leveraged to the benefit of the organization.

How often does your HR department measure its effectiveness? HR metrics and measurements can be powerful in showing us areas where we could improve and better meet the needs of our organization and its employees. They can also help provide meaningful data to help us make good decisions for our business and department.

Lean concepts have been around for quite some time—starting in the auto manufacturing industry. Even so, many companies today are just beginning to investigate what a Lean implementation could do for their business. No matter the company's industry—manufacturing, service, or otherwise—Lean processes offer organizations of all types and sizes methods to identify and reduce waste, which positively impacts your employees, customers, and the bottom line.

As college tuition rates continue to rise, offering employees an opportunity to go back to school and earn a bachelor or a master’s degree has increased in value. Many employers have taken advantage of the opportunity to boost their benefits package and offer tuition reimbursement to their employees.

Several training trends emerged from 2013 that will affect employers’ delivery of learning and development, heading into 2014. They include the following:

Training and development is an essential function of most organization nowadays. Strategically investing in employees'  training and development, nurturing their talents, and building their skill sets helps organizations achieve their desired results, enhances their culture, and assists leaders in better managing talent. Most organizations can't compete effectively without providing training and development.

To get the best, grow the best and keep the best employees in today’s global economy, employers must invest in their best. Of course, investing in your employees can mean practically anything, from compensation to luncheons; but let’s take a look at what making an investment means in the context of training & development.

Leadership development is among employer's top priorities and concerns in the workplace today. A 2013 survey conducted by The Conference Board and Right Management concluded that organizations are expected to spend 37% more on leadership development in 2014.

As the end of 2013 approaches, it's an ideal time to stop and reflect on your development as an HR professional and how you might be more effective in your HR role in 2014. Here are 10 ways to be better in HR in 2014.

It's the end of the year and a common time for employers to have discussions with their employees regarding career development as part of the performance review process, or in preparation for the upcoming year.