Human Resource Policy: Concepts, Processes and Applications

by Mike Fazey

Contemporary thought in HRM focuses very much on HR strategy, but neglects the policy function as the vital link between strategy and practice. The aim of this book is to provide students and practitioners with a conceptual framework and practical guidelines to establish and maintain an effective HR policy function. Part 1 looks at HR policy from a conceptual perspective. What is it? Why do we need it? What influences the shape of HR policies? This part also examines how policy connects with HR strategy and HR practice, and also how it connects with broader management issues. Part 2 focuses on processes – essentially how policies are conceived, produced and introduced in organizations. The basic message in this part of the book is that policymaking needs to be systematic in order to make policies dynamic and relevant. Part 2 also examines a number of policy management issues and problems, and discusses how these can best be addressed. Part 3 looks at the main types of HR policies that most organizations need and discusses the various policy options that might be included. The emphasis in this part of the book is on translating our theoretical understanding of business and people management principles into policies that give life to HR strategies and broader business strategies.

318 pages, Paperback

First published March 15, 2011

About the author

I taught human resource management at the University of Notre Dame Australia between 2008 and 2020 and have also taught at Murdoch and Edith Cowan Universities. I am now retired. My books draw on HR theory as well as my 25+ years of experience as a human resources practitioner and strategist. My main aim in writing is to help students and practitioners to bridge the gap between theory and practice.