On becoming a strategic partner: the role of human resources in gaining competitive advantage
Article Abstract:
The human resources (HR) function increasingly plays a significant part in an organization's effort to develop a sustainable competitive advantage. This role lies in managing a company's human assets, which has the most potential to provide sustainable competitive advantage. Using the value, rareness, imitability and organization (VRIO) framework, the types of resources that can and cannot be sources of competitive edge are identified. Firm-specific skills, which have value solely to a particular firm, are more a source of sustainable competitive advantage than general skills, as are teams compared to individuals. Likewise, HR systems, more than single HR practices, provide sustainable competitive advantage. The VRIO model thus proves to be a useful tool for evaluating the activities of the HR function against the elements of value, rareness, imitability and organization.
Publication Name: Human Resource Management
Subject: Human resources and labor relations
ISSN: 0090-4848
Year: 1998
User Contributions:
Comment about this article or add new information about this topic:
Designing and supporting transnational teams: the human resource agenda
Article Abstract:
A study was conducted to analyze human resource practices, strategies and programs utilized by transnational teams of multinational companies from the US, Europe and Asia. The study used interviews, a questionnaire survey and a demonstration project to determine team missions and strategic orientations. Some of the companies that were included in the research were Eastman Kodak, Seagrams, Unilever, FIAT Group and British Airways. Results indicated several complexities with the establishment of high-performing translation teams. These include employee training, network staffing, local responsiveness and organizational learning. Human resource departments are urged to utilize their expertise and influence to aid teams in promoting corporate success.
Publication Name: Human Resource Management
Subject: Human resources and labor relations
ISSN: 0090-4848
Year: 1998
User Contributions:
Comment about this article or add new information about this topic:
- Abstracts: Strategic human resources: a new source for competitive advantage in the global arena. Multinational corporation management strategies and international human resources practices: bringing IHRM to the bottom line
- Abstracts: Interview with Bruce Rohde, CEO of ConAgra, Inc.: HR as major source of competitive advantage. Redesigning the human resources function at Lafarge
- Abstracts: The Russian pension reform. The remarkable role of pension reforms in the new growth and stability pact. IGP seminar: Copenhagen
- Abstracts: Programme knowledge and value of work - family practices and organizational commitment. Bikes versus lease cars: the adoption, design and use of cafeteria systems in the Netherlands
- Abstracts: Leader visioning and adaptability: Bridging the gap between research and practice on developing the ability to manage change