Introduction to Human Resource Development (HRD); Relationship between HRM and HRD

Human resource development is “a set of systematic and planned activities designed by an organization to provide its members with the opportunities to learn necessary skills to meet current and future job demands” Knowles (2014).

Nadler (1970) defined HRD as a series of organized activities conducted within a specified period of time and designed to produce behavioral change.

The evolution of human resource development starts from apprenticeship training programs, vocational education programs, factory schools, training programs for semiskilled and unskilled workers, and the human relations movement.

HRD Outcomes

• Better awareness of the skills required for job performance.
• Enhanced competence of the people
• A clearer understanding of norms and standards in the workplace.
• A better understanding of roles and expectations in the organization.
• Improved motivation and commitment towards achieving personal and organizational goals with more creative ideas.
• Development of trust, respect, and authenticity.
• Greater synergy through collaboration and teamwork.
• Higher level of problem-solving capabilities.

Relationship between HRM and HRD

Human resource management is “the strategic approach to the effective and efficient management of people in a company or organization such that they help their business gain a competitive advantage” Torrington (2008). Human resource management (HRM) focuses on the selection and utilization of human resources to achieve the goals of the organization and employees.

• HRM is a large system in an organization while HRD is a sub-system of the HRM system.
• The focus of HRM is maintenance-oriented and functions of management. The focus of HRD is development-oriented and personal and professional growth-oriented.
• HRM focuses on results, while HRD focuses on process
• HRM focuses on performance improvement, while HRD focuses on employee capability improvement.
• HRM focuses on creating business results, while HRD focuses on improving organizational capabilities.

References:

Knowles, M. S., Holton III, E. F., & Swanson, R. A. (2014). The adult learner: The definitive classic in adult education and human resource development. Routledge.

Torrington, D., Hall, L., & Taylor, S. (2008). Human resource management. Pearson education.