The human resource profession: insurrection or resurrection?

Article Abstract:

Human resource (HR) practitioners have largely remained passive while their organizations downsized and outsourced HR activities. The passivity of HR professionals may have developed during four major periods. The first was the mechanistic era in the 1940s and the 1950s when HR tasks were performed by rote. The second was the legalistic period in the 1960s and 1970s when social and employment legislation mushroomed. The third was the organistic period of 1980s when business organizations underwent major changes, such as mergers and restructuring. The fourth period is the strategic period of the 1990s when organizational change has become more orderly. The evolution of HR through these four periods is analyzed with focus on six dimensions: demographics, employee relations, pay/jobs, organizational development, the profession and the law. It is asserted that HR must shape its future to ensure its survival as both a function and a profession.

History

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Building a quality HR organization at GE

Article Abstract:

The human resources (HR) organization is crucial to the success of General Electric Co. The HR staff is responsible for attracting and developing what CEO Jack Welch refers to as 'A' players, people who contribute great value to the company. The development of the HR organization is therefore a paramount concern for management. One of the ways it builds an excellent HR organization is through its GE Human Resource Leadership Program, a two-year development program aimed at improving HR competency and business acumen. It involves rotational assignments and educational seminars. Aside from this program, GE also transfers individuals from other functions into the HR staff. Those who agree to the transfer are made to attend several courses to build their HR knowledge. Finally, the company recruits experienced HR professionals from outside the company. They go through orientation to familiarize themselves with the company's culture.

Diversified Companies, Business Personnel Management, Conglomerate corporations, General Electric Co., GE

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