The organisational context of learning: an empirical analysis

The factors that facilitate organisational learning have traditionally been analysed by the organisational learning and, in particular, the learning organisation literature. However, empirical work in this area is lacking. This paper aims to address this shortcoming. More specifically, the purpose of this paper is to identify through empirical research the factors that favour organisational learning. The hypotheses proposed are tested on a sample of 195 Spanish firms using the Structural Equation Modelling technique. The results show that decentralised strategic planning, collaborative culture, transformational leadership, selective hiring, strategic training and participation of employees in the decision making are positively related to the organisational learning.

Keywords: organisational learning, decentralised strategic planning, collaborative culture, organic structure, transformational leadership, human resource practices, learning organisation, Spain, selective hiring, strategic training, employee participation, human resource management, HRM