FOXit explains the emerging force that is HR and how to deal with it

PRETORIA, South Africa - May 13, 2014 - PRLog -- Human Resources (HR) has evolved from being ‘just another function’ in business to a highly regarded strategic force in the rapidly developing new era in commerce.

This is the view of experts in the field who also say that whilst HR is generally acknowledged to be a key link in the business chain, there is a change in mindset required to ensure that everyone in the business understands the precise function of HR and its importance.

The issue is exacerbated by the realisation that in today’s market the HR practitioner has to be au fait with all functions of the business and have a broad spectrum of understanding of the inner workings of the business.

“This is in stark contrast to what some people perceive HR to be,” claims Dierdre Strydom, CEO of FOXit.

“HR has always been seen as the place where everyone goes to when things go wrong.  This is such a fallacy in the thinking as HR should play an integral part of the business value chain and not be the department that has to pick up the pieces when bad decisions are made elsewhere,” says Strydom.

“In terms of practical application, what is the cost to a business if a “wrong” employee is appointed – huge?  However, if HR is involved from the start to understand the business drivers and needs, not only will the correct candidates be identified; but following a proper HR process will also then become less arduous.  Using HR in this way makes good business sense, and it also sets the employee up for a satisfying career because the parties understand each other’s requirements upfront,” she adds.

FOXit is one of South Africa’s fastest growing and most successful providers of project and portfolio management services.

It has established a leadership position in the integration and application of project management, with a strong focus on the HR component.

Executive leadership at the Company says there is a definite Rands and Cents value linked to Human Resource development and application in business. They refer to sick leave management as an example.

“If this is managed in a proactive manner… for instance HR takes the initiative to administer flu shots in the work place this will decrease the number of sick days during the winter months.  This can be directly correlated to the bottom line of a business.  There are various such interventions that HR can implement in a business to affect the hard bottom line,” continues Strydom.

The positive spin-off is that individuals feel valued and this increases productivity, which translates into real value for the business.

HR is imperative to the future of any business because companies are becoming leaner to enhance efficiency. According to FOXit, it is critical for HR to help sustain the balance between employer and employee.