There is at present considerable activity and interest in the topics of business and executive coaching. Many efforts are underway to include coaching as part of a larger focus on performance management and workplace learning. There is growing evidence that coaching and performance management can be effective ways to manage employees and increase individual development.

For coaching and performance management, technology—especially the Internet—changes everything. Coaching of all sorts now takes place virtually. Performance management, in general, should be greatly enhanced with new technologies and Internet-based systems. Both developmental and evaluative feedback can be provided via technology.

HR technology platforms and human resource information systems increasingly include performance management and learning management aspects. Compensation systems in a complete performance management application are also greatly enhanced by technology.