Mobilizing organizational alignment through strategic human resource development

This study examines the pivotal role of strategic human resource development (SHRD) in mobilizing organizational alignment. Using case study methodology, I trace the implementation of core competency development as a companywide SHRD initiative. The rationale for introducing core competency development as an organization-wide strategy was to enhance talent acquisition, development and retention. The operating environment (global market, industry space) and firm-specific factors (e.g. demographics and new leadership) accelerated the adoption of SHRD. Internal stakeholder orientation towards SHRD and the role of human resource development (HRD) in facilitating the implementation were also identified as critical factors. Organizational alignment emerged as an implicit consequence, while patterns of misalignment created barriers towards achieving the full benefits of SHRD. Furthermore, HRD displayed a high level of resourcefulness to become a strategic asset in the organization. I argue that the relevance and power of HRD lie in its ability to engage and respond to stakeholder expectations and involvement in organization change efforts.