Unveiling New Insights in Talent Development with 'Learning Design' May-June 2026 Issue

The Japanese Management Association Management Center (JMAM), led by President Shiraku Zhang, has launched the latest edition of its professional human resource development magazine, 'Learning Design'. This new issue, covering the period of May to June 2026, became available online for HR managers through the 'Learning Design Members' portal on May 13, 2026.

This edition continues the discussion from the previous May-June issue by focusing on the theme, 'Continuing to Cultivate Positive Management.' In this feature, the magazine explores critical questions surrounding what is required to transform managerial roles into more attractive and valuable positions. It seeks to examine the frameworks necessary for managers to unlock their true potential and how organizations can effectively nurture and support positive management styles.

The special feature is complemented by two exciting new series. The first is titled 'Current State of DX Training Led by HR,' which aims to dissect the ongoing challenges surrounding digital transformation training in the workplace. This two-part series will provide pragmatic insights into the role HR departments must take in this transformation process. The second exciting addition explores business skills through 'Refining Business Skills with Board Games,' led by Kousuke Zaitsu, an assistant professor at Nihon University. This eight-part series aims to bridge the learning gap by using board games as a medium to enhance essential business communication skills.

For those focused on human resource management or interested in the development of managerial talent, this latest issue contains a wealth of valuable information and perspectives. Notably, the first part of OPINION1 by Professor Hiromi Sakazume from Hosei University and CASE1 featuring Shionogi Pharmaceutical are available as exclusive full-text previews for a limited two-month period.

Special Feature: Continuing to Cultivate Positive Management

In 2023, 'Learning Design' highlighted the positive aspects of management roles, revealing that many managers found fulfillment in their work and viewed management not as a negative role. However, over the past three years, perceptions of managerial positions have shifted, with increasingly negative sentiments emerging. This ongoing feature leverages insights from a study involving 2,000 managers to dissect the realities of these roles. Additionally, it sheds light on the necessary structures that support managers in maximizing their contributions and how organizations can effectively foster a positive management culture.

Series: My Leadership Theory

In this enlightening series, we turn to Haji Kawamura, President of Hitachi Academy. He discusses Hitachi's vision of evolving social infrastructure through digitization, emphasizing the need for holistic leaders who possess the ability to make informed decisions by viewing the whole organization rather than just its parts. As Hitachi navigates transformative changes, he sheds light on their strategies for talent development and the cultivation of a continuous learning culture.

Series: Re-examining HR Strategies

This edition also features the third installment of 'Re-examination of HR: Understanding HR Strategies Through Concepts' by Professor Tomoyuki Shimanuki of Chuo University. This segment emphasizes the importance of recognizing early signs of organizational decay before problems become apparent. Five diagnostic concepts for gauging organizational health are introduced, serving as a guide to address and restore organizational effectiveness.

Series: Insights from Professional Coaches

The series led by Professor Jun Nakahara, which delves into the methodologies of professional coaches, picks up with professional golf coach Hidenori Mezawa. This edition provides an insightful look into the role of a coach, their influence on players, and the intricacies of the coaching profession.

New Series: The Place of DX Training Led by HR

Among the pressing concerns for many businesses is the realization of effective digital skills training. Organizations often grapple with the question of why their digital transformation efforts do not yield expected results. The first part of this new series dives into the crucial roles HR departments need to play in fostering a successful digital training environment.

New Series: Business Skills Enhancement Through Board Games

In the inaugural article of 'Refining Business Skills with Board Games,' Professor Zaitsu introduces the concept of using games to enhance essential business competencies like empathy and communication skills. This innovative approach aims to lower the barriers to learning while enhancing engagement among participants.

Series: HR Philosophy

In the fifth installment of the 'HR Philosophy' series, the discussion led by specialist Kunio Tsubotani and Koji Shinagawa focuses on the Buddhist concept of interdependence and its application in human resources, addressing the philosophical underpinnings that guide effective HR practices.

Join Learning Design Members

For those engaged in human resources and talent development, becoming a 'Learning Design Members' participant offers access to valuable insights, seminars, and practical information to enhance your professional practice. The membership aims to foster a collaborative environment for discussing future trends in talent development.

Summary

The May-June 2026 issue of 'Learning Design' is now available on the 'Learning Design Members' site. This edition not only provides the latest insights on cultivating positive management and the ongoing transformation in HR practices but also offers new perspectives that will certainly assist professionals in their growth.

For further details, the full contents and various articles can be accessed via the magazine's official pages.