Human Resource Planning at American Hospital Supply.

Abstract

Personnel planning at American Hospital Supply is nearing the end of its first decode. This article explores the development and key components of the Personnel Planning System (PPS). Its initial impetus stem med from continuing shortages of high potential managers due to rapid growth. The system emphasizes the identification of high potential and high performing managers with the readiness for promotion. While the company is decentralized, the PPS allows the organization to inventory and control its managerial talent while continuing to enable decentralized decision making. Areas of intensive line management involvement are identified. Implications for the future operation of the system are detailed. Donald Parker is in the Graduate School of Business Administration, University of Michigan. John Fossum is in the Industrial Relations Center, University of Minnesota. Jan Blakslee and Anthony Rucci are with American Hospital Supply Corporation. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]