Perceptions of Software Employees towards HRD Roles and Functions

Abstract

In order to meet the human capital needs of the organizations, human resource management (HRM) and human resource development (HRD) often work hand-in-hand [1]. Human resource departments are an integral part of any organization. These departments perform various functions such as recruitment, engagement, performance management, organizational development, training, change management, and diversity. While the concepts of HRM have been practiced in the industry for some time now, HRD is a relatively new field under the umbrella of human resources studies. Developing employees to maximize their contribution to the organization is an essential aspect of HRD. Employee training and development are key to maintaining competitive advantage in all industries, especially knowledge-based industries such as software. Constant evolution in technology, consumer needs, and global competition demand that software industries provide training and create developmental opportunities for their employees to remain competitive. However, there is no study yet that explores the perceptions of software professionals towards developmental functions within the organization undertaken by human resource professionals. This research therefore, examined the perceptions of software professionals towards HRD roles and functions in their organizations. This research adopted a quantitative methodology and administered a survey on an online platform. The participants in this study were employed in the software industry and working in their current technical job role for at least a year. The survey was designed to include all the roles and functions described in the competency model developed by The Association of Talent Development in 2014. The survey reviewed participants' perceptions of usefulness and importance of specific HRD roles and functions. The participants ranked Learning and Knowledge Management as the most important and Change Management as most effectively managed HRD function. The results of the study indicated a general amiable perception towards HRD roles and functions.