This report draws on our interview findings to make several broad observations about how executives learn. Most executives seek new ideas in response to current, critical problems. As a result, to have value ideas must be credible, relevant and viable. Knowledge providers can use a variety of tactics to ensure that executives have access to the right ideas at the right time. For example, because executives often rely on peers to determine the credibility of an idea, knowledge providers can present their ideas in a provocative, concise format that can be easily transmitted via email or word-of-mouth.

Executives obtain new ideas from a variety of sources, but that many of these sources fall short of their expectations. For example, few management publications provide in-depth, analytical content that is directly relevant to the sector. Conferences could be organized to take better advantage of learning and networking opportunities. Executive education, though highly beneficial, is too time consuming and costly for many resource-constrained executives. Executives would also like to see increased use of knowledge sharing formats such as roundtables and cross-sector gatherings.

In an environment of increased interest in effective management, The Bridgespan Group believes that demand for high-quality management knowledge will continue to rise. These findings suggest several opportunities for management knowledge providers to meet executives' needs.