Poorly planned and delivered staff development programs have a negative influence on morale. Staff development has been defined differently depending on the source affixing a name to the process. Each term, however, shares common goals: to change employee behavior and to provide processes that promote more effective and efficient outcomes.

Basically reactive in nature, staff development focuses on providing new knowledge and skills, attitudes and beliefs. Proactive programs address the anticipated professional and personal needs as individuals. Holistic programs are systematic comprehensive programs rather than one-shot attempts at reform.