Since the first edition of this book, the level of interest and the varied forms of assessment and development centres have mushroomed. Iain Ballantyne and Nigel Povah's book looks at the entire process, from the underlying concepts to the most effective methods of validation - not forgetting the organizational politics involved. The main objectives of the book are: ¢ to establish a thorough understanding of the principles and practice of assessment and development centres; ¢ to provide sufficient knowledge to enable practitioners to run their own events in a professional manner; ¢ to help readers to recognise when they may need to call on outside expertise, and ¢ to equip readers to ask pertinent questions of any prospective advisers. This second edition includes guidance to reflect the significant developments within the technology, along with further advice on quality control, process improvements and further refinements to the increasingly popular development centre concept. Assessment and Development Centres represents a practical approach which is sure of a warm welcome from HR professionals.