Here’s Why Every Organisation Need Strategic Workforce Planning

Amongst all the core operations and duties that HR teams within every organisation is responsible for, workforce planning is one of the core fundamentals. .

High-performing organisations are almost always testament to the positive impact of strategic workforce planning on business. While many other companies engage in workforce planning initiatives seeking to improve their workforce shape and capability to align with current and future business needs, they are still struggling to be successful at aligning business and workforce plans.

The message here is – don’t give up. It’s hard because its complex and requires structure, judgement, discipline and persistence in order to work.  However, the profound benefits associated with workforce planning makes it essential that organisations who want to be successful stay ‘the journey’ and arrive at a workforce plan that works for them. Put the other way around, management teams that don’t have a working workforce plan are deploying whats usually for most businesses their biggest expense without knowing if its properly structured and sustainable into the future.

Having said that, set out below are some suggestions about some key areas to think about in terms of workforce planning and why its important:

Eliminate unwanted surprises

Workforce planning is a proactive approach that involves planning ahead effectively to avoid/minimise potential talent shortages or surpluses.

In addition, by forecasting the talent needs as well as the available or required supply of talent, HR can easily avoid urgent hiring and layoffs that tend to affect the core operations, reputation and productivity of the business.

Streamline business cycles

Every business cycle has periods of growth and recession. Determining a customised approach to deal with different of the business cycle helps prepare the organisation for changing phases and keep business operations running at peak efficiency.
With appropriate procedures to be implemented in both good and bad times, the organisation can meet intended production goals while preventing project delays and unfavourable outcomes.

Identify skill gaps in the workforce

Not only does a good workforce planning assessment assist in hiring new employees and determining appropriate staffing needs, but it also helps to put in place proper employee development initiatives identifying and addressing skill gaps in the current workforce.

With a well-though out system in place to identify employee needs and link this to budgets and performance management schemes, it becomes easier to alert organisational resources of potential problems and insecurities and minimise potential risk and damage.

Conclusion

Workforce planning is not just limited to identifying, recruiting and deploying the right employees but also analysing current and future workforce needs and goals to keep the business operating at peak efficiency.

Laying out a strategic workforce plan might seem intimidating at first but when implemented appropriately it can yield rewarding results for the organisation. Remember, without a workforce plan your biggest expense and asset is not being efficiently and effectively used.

3 Mistakes To Avoid When Improving Workplace Health And Safety

Most business owners realise the importance of a safe and healthy work environment early. But realising how crucial it is to maintain a safe and healthy workplace is not enough. One needs to plan and execute diligently in order to maintain good workplace health and safety standards.

That said, given below are three common mistakes businesses make that jeopardise their employees’ health and safety.

Failing to Invest in PPE

Many business owners simply overlook the significance of PPE (Personal Protective Equipment) considering it an additional (optional) expense.

The truth is PPE is not an expense but an investment in the long-run. Personal protective equipment that includes safety clothing, harness, masks, boots and more are specifically designed to reduce the risks an individual’s health and safety when around the workplace. Not only do these safety gear protect workers from surrounding threats but help them focus on their work and operate efficiently.

Skimping on Equipment

Every entrepreneur wants to spend less and save more. That’s how businesses work, right?

Well, yes saving money allows you to be more strategic about your investments and improve your bottom line. But it doesn’t make the cheapest tools in the market a great option for your business.

More often than not, with low-cost equipment from unknown manufacturers can come increased safety risks. They may cost you significantly less than proven models but may not deliver when it comes to durability and performance. In addition, cheap tools are prone to wear and tear and malfunctioning, increasing the potential to inadvertently place your staff at a risk of physical injuries and health risks, as well as reduced productivity while replacement equipment is purchased or sourced.

Denying the Need for Expert Help

Handling your workplace health and safety documentation and training may seem like a DIY job. All you have to do is to take a few initiatives including educating your employees about the potential threats and investing in medical and safety equipment and putting up some posters.

It’s great to be aware of and able to manage your workplace safety on your own. But who’s going to tell you if you’re on the right track, whether your strategies and procedures are appropriate and whether your risks are properly assessed and managed?

That is exactly why you need expert help. With the proven skills and experience of experts, you cannot only improve your workspace in terms of employee health and safety but save your money and time by minimising potential threats.

The Takeaways

• Personal Protective Equipment is an effective tool to protect your employees against unpredictable accidents and ensure their wellness at workplace.
• Do not compromise quality for price. In case of budget pressures, consult with professionals to find your best options before making a decision.
• Consulting with professionals regarding your workplace health and safety can help you make better decisions and plans to proactively safeguard your business and employees and engage with, identify and manage risk effectively.