The tension between institutional needs and those of the individual has rarely been higher. Increasing demands on institutions to deliver set targets and value for money whilst adhering to set expectations and external constraints has led to an erosion of the notion of staff development. This book looks at how the conflict between the two outlooks emerges and what can be done to overcome it. Based on empirical evidence, the authors reveal what is happening in a range of institutions and explore the tensions between the personal needs of the individual and the demands of managers. They examine the reasons behind the conflict and discuss what measures can be taken to overcome it. The book will provide a central text on an important but relatively neglected subject of interest to all engaged in the profession.