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Human Resource Management by
Bratton & Gold
Companion Website
Chapter One: The Human Resource Management Phenomenon
Chapter Objectives
After studying this chapter, you should be able to:
- Explain the role of human resource management in organizations
- Summarize the major activities associated with human resource management
- Describe the history of human resource management
- Explain the theoretical debate surrounding the HRM model
Reflective Question
Drawing on your own work experience or an organization that you have studied, describe
key HR policies and actions. Is there a gap between the principles underpinning the HRM
models examined in this chapter? If there is a difference, explain why.
Help
In this question you are being asked to demonstrate your knowledge and understanding of
the principles underpinning the HRM model. Look at Figures 1.4 and 1.7 for example, and
reflect upon the meaning and implications for management practice of the concepts listed
under personnel and HR management. Gather information, either from published cases studies
or from interviews with managers and non-managers, or talk to friends and relatives about
their work experience, in order to compare and contrast the theory with workplace
practices. You should illustrate your answer with specific examples drawn from the
selected company or from secondary sources. Mabey et al.‘s 1998 book provides some
useful case studies of those at the ‘receiving end’ of HRM strategies. You can
also find case studies in the Human Resources Management Journal which is available
on-line. For information on journals, go to the Links and Resources page.
Study Tip
You need to be aware that many of the articles written about HRM are by consultants.
They, and HRM practitioners, have a vested interest in promoting the HRM model. Therefore,
having chosen an HR function that interests you, select readings from professional
journals and/or a chapter from a more prescriptive ‘how to’ HR textbook that
allows you to compare different approaches and arguments.
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