Human Resource Planning as a Determinant of Organizational Performance (A study of selected SMEs in Anambra State)

Abstract

The study explored human resource planning (HRP) as a determinant of organisational performance amongst selected SMEs in Nigeria. A population of 300 SMEs was selected using a survey research method. A Structured questionnaire was adopted based on a 5-point Likert scale to collect data, which captured HRP practices (workforce planning, organisational effectiveness, professional development, performance appraisal, selection/recruitment alignment, and training/retention planning) and performance indicators (sales growth, productivity, service quality). Descriptive statistics and the Pearson product-moment correlation coefficient (PPMC) were used in analyzing data and to test the correlation between human resource planning and organisational performance. Ideally, HRP is anticipated to influence the performance of SMEs by ensuring that the right skill mix, appropriate staffing, and competence development are achieved. Findings showed that there is a significant relationship that links organisational performance and HRP, which specifies that effective human resource planning enhances productivity, goal attainment, and overall efficiency in an organisation.
The study concludes that any firm that adopts a well-structured HRP process stands a chance to achieve sustainability and competitive advantage. Recommendation was that the organisation should strengthen its HRP strategies to ensure the right employees are engaged to maximize performance.