Case
...specific HR activities and programs fit. To support this broad perspective, some of the most important external and internal challenges vis-‘a-vis HR strategies are discussed in three categories: environmental challenges, organizational challenges, and individual challenges. There are also sections on planning and implementing strategic HR policies and on the role of line managers and the HR department pertaining to the effective use of human resources. Essentially, managers, in partnership with the HR department, adopt and implement HR strategies through specific activities and programs. HR professionals are often responsible for designing these programs in order to meet business goals and employee needs. While the line managers provide the necessary input during the program design phase, they are primarily responsible for carrying out or implementing such programs.
ANNOTATED OUTLINE
I. Human Resource Management: The Challenges (PPT 1.1 and 1.2)
A. Environmental Challenges (PPT 1.3 and Trans. 1.1)
Environmental challenges refer to forces external to the firm that are largely beyond management’s control but influence organizational performance. They include: rapid change, the internet revolution, workforce diversity, globalization, legislation, evolving work and family roles, and skill shortages and the rise of the service sector.
B. Organizational Challenges (PPT 1.3 and Trans. 1.1)
Organizational challenges refer to concerns that are internal to the firm. However, they are often a byproduct of environmental forces because no firm operates in a vacuum. These issues include: competitive position (cost, quality, and distinctive capability), decentralization, downsizing, organizational restructuring, self-managed work teams, small businesses, organizational culture, technology, and outsourcing.
C. Individual...
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