Chapter 5: Human Resources Planning "HRP"

Question 1

Define human resource planning (HRP) and Discuss its strategic importance

Answer 1

Human resources planning (HRP) is the process of reviewing HR requirements to ensure that the organization has the required number of employees with the necessary skills to meet its strategic goals.

Question 2

Describe four quantitive and two qualitative techniques used to forecast human resources demand.

Answer 2

4 Quantitative:
- Trend analysis
- Ratio analysis
- Scatterplots
- Regression analysis

2 Qualitative:
- Nominal group
- Delphi technique

Question 3

Discuss briefly the four strategies used to forecast internal human resources supply

Answer 3

Four strategies used to forecast internal HR supply are Markov analysis, skills and management inventories, replacement charts and summaries, and succession planning.

Question 4

Describe how a surplus of human resources can be handled

Answer 4

A surplus can be dealt with hiring freeze, downsizing through attrition; early retirement buyout programs; reduced hours through job sharing, part-time work, work sharing, or reduced workweeks; leaves of absence; and termination of employment

Question 5

Explain how organizations deal with a shortage of human resources

Answer 5

Strategies to manage a human resources shortage include internal and external solutions, such as hiring employees, employee transfers and promotions, and retention programs.

Question 6

Three types of market conditions assessed when forecasting external human resources supply.

Answer 6

Forecasting external HR supply requires an assessment of general economic conditions, labour market conditions, and occupational labour conditions.