This publication reports the findings of a review that was begun in early 2001 of career guidance policies in 14 OECD countries in two continents. It has looked at how the organisation, management and delivery of career guidance can assist countries to advance lifelong learning goals, and at how career guidance can help in the implementation of active labour market policies.

The review focused on career guidance services throughout the lifespan: for young people; for adults; and for the "third age". It examined career guidance services in a wide range of settings: compulsory schooling; upper secondary education; tertiary education; community settings; public employment services; and the workplace. It also examined the role of a broad range of stakeholder of career guidance services: governments, employers, trade unions, community organisations, educational institutions, parents, students, and career guidance practitioners.

The findings of the review are organised around four main questions:

• Why does career guidance matter for public policy? (chapters 1 and 2)
• How can career guidance be delivered more effectively? (chapters 3 to 6)
• How should career guidance be resourced? (chapters 7 and 8)
• How can strategic leadership be improved? (chapters 9 and 10)