Human Resource Management Practices in Coimbatore - With Special Reference to the Manufacturing Sector

Purpose - This study aims to bring out the extent of usage and perceived effectiveness of HRM practices in the manufacturing sector of Coimbatore, an important industrial city in Tamilnadu. Design/Methodology/Approach - The study used a structured questionnaire to collect data on the prevailing HRM practices in the region. The HR managers of selected companies across the region were asked to fill the questionnaire, which contained descriptive questions to bring out the HRM functions in a detailed manner Descriptive statistics was used to bring out the extent of usage of HRM practices in the region. Findings - The paper found that the regional industries have given due care to implement formal HRM practices and have focused on training programs and social responsibility activities. However, they were on a low profile in certain critical aspects of HRM like career planning, workers participation in management and transparent compensation metrics for employees. It also found that the industries perceived their HRM practices to be effective in achieving their business objectives. Research Limitations/Implications - Only a few direct interviews were possible, which limited the researcher from probing into the details of the practices. Originality/Value - This paper shows the influence of context on HRM and implies to the HR managers that they should always design their HRM practices according to their context.