Harold - thanks for the insightful piece. It has triggered some emotions as I know a number of L&D professionals that are already taking this approach and thus I am surprised that others have yet to "change their mindset". L&D exists for the business - no business no L&D. Until L&D / HR starts to speak the language of business and "get in bed" with the business then we shall not survive. At a recent internal conference a senior leader was heard to say "if you want me to invite you (L&D) into my business then you need to know my business - take time to know my business before telling me how you will improve my business".