Custom management development program architecture: in pursuit of critical mass for impact

Purpose This article highlights two potentially overlooked and undervalued features of custom management development program architecture that can facilitate and further the positive impact of program participants upon their return to work. Design/methodology/approach The insights presented are based on having worked with a number of large, custom management development program clients and seeking to foster greater, better, and a longer lasting impact accruing to the program sponsor when the program participants returned to work. Findings Two program design features are highlighted and discussed: (1) tiered critical mass participant throughput and (2) program transportability. A real-world based example is provided to depict these two program design aspects. Practical implications The two program design ideas presented are easily understood and immediately actionable for anyone engaged in responding to a custom management development program opportunity with an eye towards enhancing the impact for a sponsoring client. Originality/value Organizational sponsors of custom management development programs are interested in their program providers enhancing returning program participants’ ability to impact their work teams, departments, and business units with their program learnings. This article is unique in identifying and describing two potentially overlooked program design considerations that can aid in that pursuit.