Title: Examining the role of human resource management in continuous improvement

Authors: Frances Jorgensen, Paul Hyland, Lise Busk Kofoed

Addresses: Center for Organizational Renewal and Evolution (CORE), Aarhus School of Business, Aarhus University, Aarhus 9220, Denmark. ' School of Natural and Rural Systems Management, University of Queensland, St Lucia Campus, 4072, Australia. ' Department of Media Technology, Aalborg University, Lautrupvang 15, Ballerup 2750, Denmark

Abstract: The objective of this paper is to take a first step in developing a theoretical framework describing the role of HRM in successful CI, based on the current literature from both fields. To this end, elements from the CI Maturity Model and a framework depicting the role of HRM in innovation serve as a foundation for examining how specific bundles of HRM practices utilised during different phases of the CI implementation process may contribute to sustained organisational and enhanced operational performance. The primary contribution of this paper is theoretical; however, the framework has practical value in that it suggests important relationships between HRM practices and behaviours necessary for successful CI. A preliminary test of the framework in an empirical setting is summarised at the conclusion of this paper, where a number of possible research avenues are also suggested.

Keywords: human resource management; HRM; continuous improvement; theoretical framework; continuous innovation.

DOI: 10.1504/IJTM.2008.018064

International Journal of Technology Management, 2008 Vol.42 No.1/2, pp.127 - 142

Published online: 28 Apr 2008 *

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