Businesses, universities and engineering management

Abstract

This discussion paper takes a look at the changing requirements of businesses and at the capabilities of university management schools, in order to address the question: why does industry constantly complain about the shortage of managerial talent? There is no doubting the talent of professional engineers, but their contribution to business management is not good enough. The needs of businesses are investigated and it is suggested that three levels of management development should be visualised. However, companies tend to send selected staff on university management programmes as an act of faith, without becoming involved in programme design or delivery. This detachment is not discouraged by universities and reasons are explored briefly, but it is noted that 'management' cannot be regarded simply as a science or as an intellectual discipline. Programme delivery is visualised in four stages, with companies needing at least three and universities only able to deliver two at best. It is recommended, therefore, that programme design and delivery be regarded as an integrated activity, involving companies and universities. A revolutionary shift in working practices will be required. The experiences of the Engineering Management Partnership (EMP) in the UK are outlined, showing that the present programme, which meets many of the needs of industry, should be extended to include company-specific application.