It was only a few years ago when we talked about Human Capital Development as being the only sustainable competitive edge. Successful organisations talked about looking after their people and creating great places to work. But recent economic challenges have put human capital first in the line of fire. The continuous flow of gloomy economic news understandably pushed employers to cut cost to stay relevant in the changed circumstance. And, 'people' costs have been one of the first to face cuts.

Must crisis really result in terminating human capital? Is crisis a permanent condition? Can there be other positive ways to respond to crisis? What can we do to build dynamic organisations that are strong to withstand future economic changes? How do we become one of those smart organisations that build systems to grow to withstand the wear and tear of future crisis? How do we get ready for unpredictable events and disruptive technologies, which may change the world as we see it today? Are we ready if this crisis happens again? How do we create alternative strategies for human capital management?