The process of acquiring, deploying, and retaining a workforce of sufficient quantity and quality to fulfill organizational needs is a core management function. It encompasses activities such as recruitment, selection, training, performance appraisal, compensation, and labor relations. For example, a healthcare organization may engage in extensive recruitment efforts to secure qualified nurses, subsequently providing them with ongoing professional development opportunities to maintain high standards of patient care.
Effective workforce management is critical for organizational success. It enables organizations to achieve their strategic objectives by ensuring that they have the right people, with the right skills, in the right positions, at the right time. Historically, its importance has evolved alongside advancements in management theory and increasing recognition of human capital as a vital asset. Organizations that prioritize this activity tend to exhibit improved productivity, reduced turnover, and enhanced employee satisfaction, leading to a competitive advantage.
