The fundamental purpose of this book is to help students and practitioners to bridge the gap between theory and practice. Drawing on more the 25 years experience as a practitioner, the author describes a range of realistic cases and business scenarios typically encountered by HR professionals. These are accompanied by discussion questions and other learning activities that require learners to apply their theoretical understanding of HR while taking account of the impact of issues such as organisational politics, business requirements, legal and regulatory requirements, the industrial relations environment, and other contextual factors.

The discussion questions and learning activities are challenging, and highlight the dilemmas inherent in many aspects of HR practice. They are based on HR's contemporary 'strategic partner' role and require learners to think beyond 'textbook solutions' and to develop responses that are practical and that meet the needs of all stakeholders. The book includes an opening chapter that provides decision-making and problem-solving guidelines for HR practitioners.

This title is: suitable for HR education programs at all levels and for professional development for HR practitioners; covers scenarios in all aspects of HR practice and strategy; reflects HR's role as a strategic business partner; includes challenging learning activities and discussion questions; and, provides a practical decision-making and problem-solving framework.