Saturday, February 10, 2007

HR Process Re-engineering

In today’s competitive environment, companies are reviewing current HR processes and looking at way to implement best practices. If companies are going to achieve strategic goals, radical transformation initiatives must be at the top of the agenda.

The first step in the HR re-engineering process is the review and standardization of HR processes and policies. Check state and government labor laws for any changes and update current HR polices accordingly. Develop HR procedures with the thought of creating efficient processes and improved workflow. If your company has global operations, in-country labor laws may require separate policies and procedures to address those issues. Regardless of the country, keep in mind that efficient workflow will result in productivity and ultimately translate into measurable cost savings.

Successful HR transformation requires the implementation of technology that automates various HR functions and processes. Companies that are at the forefront of HR programs and processes have done so by leveraging technology and deploying best of breed HR systems. Due diligence will determine if deploying technology will be an enabler or hindrance to your re-engineering project. Forming a cross functional teaming which include IT, user groups and HR primes should be an essential part of this process.

Outsourcing or a managed service model might be another option for consideration. As companies cut cost across business organizations, outsourcing can be a cost effective alternative to in-house resources. HR functions that can easily be outsourced include recruiting, staffing, benefits, payroll, and training. Outsourcing can help HR organizations shift focus from peripheral task to driving process improvements and implementing strategy.

The HR process re-engineering is a strategy that can improve the way your organization delivers robust HR services and increase employee satisfaction. If your company is about to undertake such an project or just want consultation, give Cetera North America a call or visit us at http://www.teamcetera.com/.

What do you think?

Thursday, February 1, 2007

Is Your Supply Chain At Risk?

Supply chain risk denotes an uncertainty or unpredictable occurrence affecting one or more of the parties within the supply chain, which can (negatively) impact the success of business objectives. As the supply chain becomes global, risk management and mitigation has to be part of the sourcing strategy.

In 1995, the Kobe earthquake (M=6.9), was one of the most devastating earthquakes ever to hit Japan; killing more than 5,500 and injuring over 26,000. As a result, supply chain disruptions were felt across a numerous industries. Many companies with suppliers in the Kobe region were forced to use alternate sources of supply or wait until Kobe was back on line. Who could have predicted that such an event would happen?

The goal of any supply chain risk management strategy should be to control, monitor and evaluate supply chain risk, which will serve to safeguard continuity and maximize profitability.

Effective supply chain risk management provides the ability to anticipate and respond rapidly to external trends and developments. It places a focus on uncertainties and the unexpected. Supplier relationships must be managed to ensure that supply chain partners are committed and support the risk management program.

I’m not completely sure you can eliminate every risk associated with sourcing, but you can take a proactive approach to ensure effective management of all potential risks throughout the supply chain.

If your company is about to undertake such an project or just want consultation, give Cetera North America a call or visit us at http://www.teamcetera.com/.

What do you think?