Foreword

We like to think that no one knows training like the AMA!

Since 1923, the business community has turned to us for the practical training and business tools to improve individual and organizational performance ”and achieve bottom-line results. To be effective, our courses are designed to be dynamic and interactive, taking full advantage of the latest thinking in adult education and brain-based learning. Here at AMACOM, the publishing division of the AMA, we help to extend the AMA learning experience beyond the training center, with books that help individual businesspeople live better and work smarter .

The book you are about to read represents something of a marriage of these two aspects of the American Management Association. We hope T he AMA T rainers ' A ctivity B ook will help you help your participants by bringing some of that AMA magic into your own training programs. In it, 25 of our top faculty members have come together to contribute their most effective learning activities. As the book was being developed we took to calling it "The Best of the Best" and, as I reread the final text, I can assure you that it really is.

The activities selected are interesting and varied, and can be used in many different learning situations ” with large and small groups and a broad range of program topics. These activities will help you rejuvenate existing programs or can be incorporated into new courses you are designing from scratch.

In today's hotly competitive business environment, training and employee development is more critical than ever. Though it is always a struggle to reach enough employees while managing under tight budgets , you are an essential part of your organization's success. Don't give up. You can make a difference!

Jacqueline Flynn
Executive Editor
AMACOM Books
American Management Association