Principles of Managing Organizations Course

This course provides an in-depth overview of foundational principles in leadership and management, financial management, human capital management, and workplace technology practices. Participants gain a strong understanding of key concepts and strategies to lead organizations effectively, manage financial resources, strengthen human capital, and use technology to support organizational success.

What You Will Learn

• Examine foundational concepts of leadership and management
• Explain the core principles of financial management
• Assess key elements of financial resource planning
• Evaluate approaches to human capital management

Course Outline

Module 1: Basic Principles of Leadership and Management

• Differentiate leadership and management, and when to employ each to achieve mission objectives.
• Identify characteristics of effective leaders (e.g., adaptability, continuous learning, teamwork, mentoring).
• Identify characteristics of effective management (e.g., setting priorities, engaging employees, organizing work, enabling resources).
• Recognize shared skills and challenges and how blending leadership and management supports accountability and results.

Module 2: Basic Principles of Financial Management

• Define financial management and stewardship, including planning, control, communication, cost-effectiveness, evaluation, and staffing.
• Identify key stakeholders (budget analysts, accountants, economists, financial analysts, auditors) and their roles.
• Apply ethical standards and internal controls (OMB A-123, GAO standards) to promote transparency, accountability, and fiscal responsibility.
• Explain the roles of budgeting, financial reporting, auditing, and financial controls, and reforms stemming from the CFO Act.

Module 3: Approaches to Human Capital Management

• Define human capital management in the federal context and its value in maximizing workforce impact.
• Detail core practices: talent acquisition, onboarding, training and development, performance management, and employee engagement (e.g., FEVS).
• Use OPM’s Human Capital Framework (Strategic Planning & Alignment, Talent Management, Performance Culture, Evaluation) to close competency gaps and plan succession.
• Assess strengths and weaknesses across recruiting/retention, succession and knowledge management, and competition with the private sector.

Module 4: Basic Guidelines for Managing Technology in the Workplace

• Explain how technology improves efficiency, productivity, and service delivery (automation, integrated data, AI/analytics, monitoring).
• Identify challenges and risks: cybersecurity, IT modernization, investment/project management, regulatory requirements, and remote/hybrid work.
• Outline IT governance domains and principles (value, alignment, performance, resources, risk; ISO/IEC 38500).
• Establish and maintain key policies and procedures (acceptable use, data classification, and remote access).