Which of the following consists of broad model of MRM/HRD?
A. Hard variant of HRM (Matching Model of HRM)
B. Soft variant of HRM (Harvard Model HRM)
C. 5P Model of HRM (Model of strategic HRM)
D. Business Strategic Model of v (Business School Model)

Correct option is C

Human Resource Management (HRM) and Human Resource Development (HRD) focus on workforce planning, development, and strategic alignment of employees with business goals. Over time, different models have been developed to describe HRM approaches. The three correct models in the given options are:

1. Hard Variant of HRM (Matching Model of HRM) (A):

   • Developed by Fombrun, Tichy, and Devanna (1984), this model emphasizes aligning HR strategies with business objectives.

   • It is called "hard" HRM because it views employees as resources that must be managed to maximize organizational performance.

   • Key focus: Workforce planning, performance management, and cost-effectiveness.

2. Soft Variant of HRM (Harvard Model of HRM) (B):

   • Developed by Beer et al. (1984) at Harvard University, this model emphasizes the human aspect of HRM, considering employees as valuable assets.

   • Key focus: Employee well-being, motivation, participation, and long-term growth.

   • This model balances business needs with employee satisfaction.

3. 5P Model of HRM (Model of Strategic HRM) (C):

   • Introduced by Randall S. Schuler, the 5P Model connects HRM with business strategy using five components: Philosophy, Policies, Programs, Practices, and Processes.

   • Key focus: Aligning HRM functions with strategic organizational goals.

Information Booster:

• HRM models help organizations structure their people management approaches.
• Hard HRM (Matching Model) focuses on cost-efficiency and business goals.
• Soft HRM (Harvard Model) emphasizes employee motivation and engagement.
• Strategic HRM (5P Model) integrates HR policies with long-term business strategy.

Applications of HRM Models in Organizations:

1. Recruitment & Selection: Helps define whether the focus should be on cost-cutting (Hard HRM) or talent development (Soft HRM).

2. Performance Management: Strategic HRM models like 5P guide goal alignment.

3. Employee Retention: The Harvard Model focuses on job satisfaction and engagement.

Additional Knowledge:

Business Strategic Model (D) - Not a recognized broad HRM model

• The term “Business Strategic Model” is a general business framework and not a specific HRM model.

• While business strategy influences HRM, this model does not directly define HR practices.

• In HRM, strategic frameworks like the 5P Model, Best-Fit Model, and Resource-Based Model are used instead.