Introduction to HRM

This guide is based on Human Resource Management in a Business Context, and includes links to extra articles, notes, tips and exercises. It introduces you to the essential elements of HRM, its origins and applications.

HRM is viewed as an all-embracing term describing a number of distinctive approaches to people management. Part 1 helps you to understand and evaluate the different and sometimes ambiguous views of human resource management by investigating its origins, explanatory models, technology and practice

The sections in Part 1 address a number of specific issues:

• Where do the fundamental concepts of HRM come from?
• What distinguishes HRM from other approaches to managing people - particularly personnel management?
• Is HRM here to stay or is it just another management fad?
• Is HRM a coherent and integrated approach to managing people?
• How prevalent is HRM?
• What is the link between HRM and high performance?
• HRM and Knowledge Management.
• How has technology changed the practice and delivery of HRM?
• Does its use lead to greater organizational effectiveness?

Chapter One - Managing People

We introduce you to the concept of human resource management. HRM has evolved from a number of different strands of thought and is best described as a loose philosophy of people management rather than a focused methodology.

Chapter Two - The Concept of HRM

HRM has a variety of definitions but there is general agreement that it has a closer fit with business strategy than previous models, specifically personnel management.

Chapter Three - HRM and Business Effectiveness

In all the debates about the meaning, significance and practice of HRM, nothing seems more certain than the link between HRM and performance. But is it?