Our ROI is A-OK

Executive education...what's the net worth?

For years, companies have turned to universities like SMU Cox Executive Education to sharpen their executives' leadership and management skills. What was once viewed as an added benefit for high-potentials has now become an integral part of a company's talent management strategy.

"Companies look at executive education as an investment and want to see a payback," says Frank Lloyd, Ph.D and Associate Dean, SMU Cox Executive Education. "Getting tangible results from executive training is more critical than ever."

The case for university-based executive education

To help find answers concerning executive education's ROI, SMU Cox has prepared a White Paper, which surveys current research on assessing the value of executive education. This research suggests that while many external factors can affect a program's outcome, companies can measure the tangible results of executive education by:

- Assessing positive behavioral changes, alignment and communication
- Identifying new revenue generating or cost savings initiatives
- Tracking promotion and salary increases
- Assessing participants' increased knowledge in the subject areas

"Any time we can understand our client's business drivers, it makes us a better partner to help them achieve their business goals," says Evelyn Medvin, vice president, Core Laboratories and recent SMU Executive Education course participant.

"The benefit of SMU's Executive Education is the quality of instructors, their knowledge of our business on a global basis, and their ability to keep information timely and up-to-date."

Likewise, Alex Woodruff, Commercial Development Advisor for Western Gas Resources, an Anadarko Petroleum Company, says the return on investment for executive education is realized through more effective communication with internal teams, which translates to greater value for the company.

"I have a more thorough understanding now of all the performance levels that impact my company's financial condition," he says.

Understanding the numbers game

Having trouble understanding the numbers side of your business? The Essentials of Finance & Accounting for Non-Financial Managers is perfect for you.

You'll begin at the most fundamental level, learning basic accounting terms along with how to read and use financial statements to evaluate your company's performance. On the final day, you'll progress to capital budgeting and project decision-making techniques as well as managerial accounting.

Quick facts : The Essentials of Finance & Accounting for Non-Financial Managers

- When: May 21-23, 2007 or Nov. 7-9, 2007
- Tuition: $2,695 (group discounts available)
- Location: SMU campus, Dallas, TX
Register now