Human Resource Management

Human Resource Management (HRM) is a function (managing the human resources of an organization); and/or a department (the group of people who manage the human resources function); and/or the actual leaders/managers that manage the human resources of an organization.

Make sure you are clear as to how you are using the term (HRM) and whether you are referring to the function, the department, or the management team. Multiple factors influence HRM including its evolving role in organizations, globalization forces, legal issues, and assessment of the HRM contribution to performance.

Select any one of the following starter bullet point sections. Review the important themes within the sub questions of each bullet point. The sub questions are designed to get you thinking about some of the important issues. Your response should provide a succinct synthesis of the key themes in a way that articulates a clear point, position, or conclusion supported by research.

The role of HRM has been rapidly evolving over the last decade from a bureaucratic enforcer of policies to that of a strategic business partner with the organization’s leadership team. Utilizing the term Strategic Human Resource Management distinguishes the evolving relationship and responsibilities compared to traditional HRM.
Evaluate the differences between strategic and traditional HRM. For example, those differences relate to organizational strategy, structure, and assessment?
Evaluate the pros and cons of a move from traditional to strategic HRM.

If you were the CEO of a large, diversified, multinational company, what value would you expect your HRM function to add to the organization?
How would you determine whether HRM was providing value? For example, how would you know whether the HRM function was being effective?
Which measures would you use for evidence of effectiveness?
How would you assign accountability for effectiveness?


Full Answer Section

       
  • Organizational Structure: Traditional HRM tends to be centralized, with HR functions concentrated in a single department. Strategic HRM may be more decentralized, with HR professionals embedded in different business units.
  • Performance Assessment: Traditional HRM often relies on standardized performance appraisal systems. Strategic HRM focuses on performance management systems that are linked to the organization's strategic goals.
The Pros and Cons of the Shift While the move from traditional to strategic HRM offers numerous benefits, it also presents challenges: Pros:
  • Improved Organizational Performance: Strategic HRM can help organizations achieve their strategic goals by ensuring that they have the right people with the right skills in the right places.
  • Enhanced Employee Engagement: A strategic approach to HR can lead to increased employee engagement and satisfaction, which can positively impact productivity and retention.
  • Increased Organizational Agility: By focusing on talent development and succession planning, strategic HRM can help organizations adapt to change more quickly.
Cons:
  • Increased Complexity: Strategic HRM requires a higher level of expertise and sophistication.
  • Resistance to Change: Some employees may resist the changes associated with strategic HRM, particularly if they are accustomed to a more traditional approach.
  • Measurement Challenges: Measuring the impact of strategic HRM can be difficult, as many of the benefits are intangible.
In conclusion, the shift from traditional to strategic HRM is essential for organizations to remain competitive in today's global economy. By aligning HR practices with the organization's business objectives, HR can play a critical role in driving organizational success.  

Sample Answer

     

Traditional HRM vs. Strategic HRM

In the past, HRM was primarily focused on administrative tasks such as payroll, benefits, and record-keeping. This traditional approach viewed HR as a cost center and emphasized compliance with regulations. However, as organizations have become more complex and competitive, the role of HRM has evolved.

Strategic HRM, on the other hand, views HR as a strategic partner that contributes to the organization's overall business objectives. It emphasizes the importance of aligning HR practices with the organization's strategy, culture, and values. Key differences between traditional and strategic HRM include:

  • Organizational Strategy: Traditional HRM often operates in isolation from the organization's strategic planning process, while strategic HRM is integrated into the strategic planning process.