TITLE:
New Human Resource Management Systems in Non-Based-Knowledge Firms: Applications for Decision Making on the Business Performance
AUTHORS:
Pilar Ficapal-Cusí, Joan Torrent-Sellens
KEYWORDS:
Human Resource Management (HRM) Systems; Non-Based-Knolwedge Firms; Firms Performance; IT Use; Work Organization
JOURNAL NAME:
Modern Economy,
Vol.5 No.2,
February
19,
2014
ABSTRACT:
The aim of this paper is
double. First, it provides a conceptual framework and modelling of the relationship between human resource management
(HRM) systems and non-based-knowledge firms. Second, using survey data on 1.518
Catalan firms (in Spain, with capital in Barcelona), the paper: 1) identify two system of HRM (in progress
HRM system and non-HRM developed system); 2) build a causal model of
determinants of HRM systems; and 3) describe the association links between in progress HRM system and
firm’s performance. Using factor and cluster analysis, we find that only
one-third of firms use in progress HRM system. Using logit binomial analysis,
we find that features which are structural, technological, strategic,
organisational and performance-related explain the adoption of in progress HRM system. Finally,
using association analysis, we find that firms
that adopt in progress HRM system: 1) are more internationalised and show greater ability to adapt to the
changing environment, to innovate and to collaborate; 2) focus on product/service differentiation
strategy enhancing quality; 3) apply a greater degree of new forms of work organization; 4) have more technological equipment
and use IT more intensively; and 5) invest more in training their employees, than firms with non-HRM
system developed.