In Module 2 we discussed ethics and covered many of the laws used to protect employees. During this module we will have a single meaningful discussion that will cover the foundation of any successful organization, its people, the human resources. As we discuss the purpose and some of the different functions of human resource management (HRM), think about some of your own past experiences and some of the functions that managers complete on a daily basis in order to keep employees happy and productive! As you work within this discussion and share ideas and thoughts, please consider the knowledge you gain here and use this information within your SWOT analysis where applicable.

What are the purpose and functions of human resource management, and why are they important to ALL managers?

For this discussion activity, your scavenger hunt will consist of finding an example of where an organization and management excelled in taking care of and motivating employees, and then provide an example or experience where an organization failed in this area. Remember these examples can come from any organization. If you do find applicable information on your own organization while working on this discussion, use it where applicable in your own SWOT analysis. These examples can be from current events, historical instances, or classic examples, in video or print.

Conduct a web search seeking two examples of where you believe an organization’s human resource department has performed exceptionally well or failed terribly in motivating employees and creating an environment where employees want to be loyal and stay with the organization.

• Discuss what you found during your web search.
• Provide a description of how effective motivational techniques can and do affect all managers and organizations.

In response to your colleagues:

• Discuss any personal experiences you have had with human resources (both good and bad) and discuss some of the ways you’ve been motivated in the workplace.
• Discuss any similarities or differences with your own perceptions.