Organizations that frequently call their greatest asset their “people” should view the training of these critical skills as an investment in the future. Training is usually the last item added to the operating budget and the first item cut during a down cycle. Training should be increased in down cycles, not reduced. Training makes your critical resources more productive, more flexible, more versatile and more loyal to the organization. Training includes the upgrading of skills, disciplines and exposure to other operating units within the organization. Training will “upgrade” your critical skilled assets and significantly increase the effectiveness of the organization.