Theme 5 HR devolution

Question 1

Explain the framework of Ulrich who developed a typology of four roles.

Answer 1

This is a model which enables HR managers to add value to the organization, based on two dimensions.

1. people versus process
2. strategic long-term versus operational day-to-day focus

Question 2

Who is the administrative expert according to Ulrich’s framework?

Answer 2

The administrative expert -> high in process orientation and operational focus. The Hr manager designs and delivers efficient HRM processes for staffing, training, appraising, rewarding, etc.

Question 3

Who is the employee champion according to Ulrich’s framework?

Answer 3

The employee champion -> High in people orientation and operational focus. The HR manager deals with employee’s day-to-day problems

Question 4

Who is the change agent according to Ulrich’s framework?

Answer 4

The change agent -> high in people orientation and strategic focus. The HR manager focuses on managing transformation and changes across the organization.

Question 5

Who is the strategic partner according to Ulrich’s framework?

Answer 5

The strategic partner -> high in process orientation and strategic focus. The HR manager focuses on aligning the business strategy with its HR strategy and HR practices.

Question 6

Coldem and Ramanujaman looked at the evolvement of the HR funciton in the process of strategy development and implementation, how did they do this?

Answer 6

They described four linkages between the HR function and the firm’s business strategy: administrative, one-way, two-way, and integrative.

Question 7

Explain the administrative linkage as described by Coldem and Ramanujaman.

Answer 7

Represents the lowest involvement and integration. Little to no linkage between the firm’s business strategy and HR strategy.

Question 8

Explain the one-way link as described by Coldem and Ramanujaman.

Answer 8

The HR function helps implementing the established business strategy, by designing appropriate HRM policies and practices. The policies are influenced by the business strategy.

Question 9

Explain the two-way linkage as described by Coldem and Ramanujaman.

Answer 9

Business strategy influences HR strategy and vice versa.

Question 10

Explain the integrative linkage as described by Coldem and Ramanujaman.

Answer 10

Business strategy influences HR strategy and vice versa, plus HRM is a crucial part of the firm’s business strategy and policies.

Question 11

Why may line-managers be not as effective as possible in the implementation of the designed HR policies and practices?

Answer 11

It depends on their level of commitment, and their capability regarding their HR role.