CEOs, CFOs, and other management team members struggle at times with who should be responsible for HR issues in their organization. They ask themselves is it good enough to have HR managed by a payroll person, a benefits person, an office manager, or do they need an HR professional. If they decide to add an HR function, questions arise such as:

• What will be the responsibilities?
• What HR processes and programs need to be implemented?
• Should the function be outsourced?
• How do I ensure I hire the right HR person?

Whether or not a company needs a full time HR function really depends on: the company and the "people issues" facing the organization. Some HR professional trade associations suggest you base the decision on how many employees are employed in an organization. But the real question that needs to be answered is, "How do I know what is right for my company."

Human Capital Consulting Partners has developed a proven process that assists organizations in answering the question "Does My Company Need a Professional HR Department?" Our process is based on more than 25 years of executive level experience in Fortune 500 companies as well as with emerging-growth companies. This methodology combines both a quantitative and qualitative approach to provide a solution that works best for the company. The steps in the process include:

1. Gain a thorough understanding of the client's short-and long-term business goals.
2. Develop an interview guide that identifies the potential human resources needs and expectations.
3. Conduct face-to-face and on-line reviews with management and employees.
4. Collect data on current human resources processes, programs, and procedures.
5. Synthesize and analyze the data collected and develop a set of observations.
6. Prepare a written report with findings and preliminary proposals.

Another service offered as part of the process for those clients who decide to hire a new HR executive is Human Capital Consulting Partners will manage the entire recruiting process to identify the right person who fits the job duties, responsibilities, and company culture.

If you or someone you know is struggling with whether or not their company needs a professional HR function, I hope this information will help formulate an approach. If Human Capital Consulting Partners can be of assistance in helping solve this or other people process problems, contact us at 215-244-8110 or info@hccpartners.com.

My best wishes for a great holiday season and a prosperous 2009.

Sincerely,