"Human Development and Working Life" explores whether the development of human resources at company level can improve the quality of life of individuals, a company's possibilities of development and welfare and democracy in society. The book refers to cases where attempts have been made to improve quality of working life and competitiveness of the company. Possibilities and hindrances to combined social improvements and competition in the development of human resources are discussed. Since the early 1990s European countries have increased investments in the development of human resources at work as a vehicle for social development. The public investment in training, rehabilitation and support for innovation has increased; and at the same time the labour market has been deregulated to remove obstacles for flexibility and business development. The aim of the book is to promote knowledge about how to integrate social development and flexibility at the company level.