In the strategic planning process, it's crucial to recognize that a business's most valuable asset is its people.
Manpower management ensures that an organisation has the appropriate number of employees with the necessary skill sets to perform work effectively and efficiently. This article will explore why this is important and how SMEs can achieve it.
What is manpower management?
With the goal of aligning the workforce with the company’s business goals and objectives, manpower management ensures that the right employees with appropriate skill sets occupy suitable positions at the right time. Essentially, it enables companies to effectively plan and allocate their workforce requirements
There are several benefits of manpower management, including:
1. Optimise human resources
Manpower management ensures that an organisation has the right number of employees with the necessary skill sets so work is performed effectively and efficiently.
2. Improve employee satisfaction
The right person-job fit helps align employee growth with company direction, ensuring that the workforce is engaged in meaningful work contributing to the business’ success.
Hence, manpower management fulfils two crucial functions: firstly, it shows employees a clear path for development within the organisation; secondly, it gives employees a sense of purpose and belonging. Both functions improve employee satisfaction, increasing morale and reducing turnover rates.
3. Adapt to meet future needs
Manpower planning involves the forecasting of future workforce demands and requirements. This includes consideration of the number of employees needed and the skills and qualifications they should possess.
This approach helps businesses proactively address potential skill shortages, industry trends, and regulatory changes to avoid potential disruptions and ensure business continuity in crises.
4. Minimise recruitment costs
By forecasting future workforce requirements, companies can streamline their recruitment efforts and focus on attracting the most suitable and qualified candidates. This targeted approach reduces costs associated with advertising, interviewing, and training.
How can businesses implement strategic manpower planning?
1. Analyse the current workforce
Before formulating a strategic plan, it’s essential to have a comprehensive understanding of the current situation. Some considerations to take into account include:
● The number of employees you have.
● The skill set and qualifications of all employees.
● The age of your current workforce.
2. Forecast future needs
Identify potential changes in the near and distant future that may affect your business’ workforce requirements.
These changes can be internal such as new products or services to be launched, potential mergers and expansions, as well as external factors like technological advancements that impact your business operations.
3. Gap analysis
Determine the steps necessary for businesses to bridge the gap between current circumstances and future needs?
Some questions to consider include:
● Is hiring new employees necessary?
● Are current employees effectively utilizing their strengths?
● Should training initiatives be implemented to better equip employees for forthcoming changes?
4. Develop and implement strategies
With identified gaps in mind, devise a comprehensive plan and allocate resources strategically to steer the company toward its goals and objectives.
Conclusion
Manpower management helps companies optimise human resources, improve employee morale and satisfaction, adapt to future needs, and minimise costs. As such it is crucial in a company’s pursuit of success.
For strategy consulting services, reach out to LiT Strategy. We are a business consultancy firm in Singapore that provides EDG grant consultant and PSG Job Redesign advisory services.