The role of the human resources function in the transformation of new organizational forms: Literature review

Abstract

In a constantly evolving world marked by globalization and digitalization, organizations face structural transformations that require increased agility to remain competitive. This reality raises a central question: how can the Human Resources (HR) function effectively support this transition toward more agile and flexible organizational forms? This article aims to address this question by adopting a systematic literature review, a rigorous method designed to synthesize existing knowledge on HR practices that have a direct impact on organizational transformations. The analysis relies on a selection of relevant studies and identifies three key areas of intervention for HR: change management, skill development, and the promotion of an innovation-driven culture. Change management, inspired by Kotter’s (1996) work, emphasizes the importance of proactive communication, leader training, and collective buy-in to successfully navigate organizational transitions. Skill development, as highlighted by Huselid (1995), underscores the need to equip employees with technical and behavioral skills tailored to new organizational models. Lastly, the innovation-driven culture, based on Senge’s (1990) ideas, focuses on flexibility, continuous learning, and experimentation as the pillars of an agile organization.

However, certain gaps remain. For instance, how can the impact of HR practices on organizational performance be accurately measured? What role do new technologies play in shaping the skills required for evolving organizational needs? These questions represent critical avenues for future research, particularly through empirical studies aimed at validating the proposed theoretical hypotheses.

This article presents a conceptual model in which HR practices serve as strategic levers to facilitate organizational transformation. This model provides a solid foundation for exploring the interactions between key dimensions and guiding organizations toward enhanced competitiveness in a rapidly changing environment.

Keywords: Organizational transformation, Human Resources function, organizational agility, change management, skill development.

JEL Classification: M12 – Human Resource Management

Paper type: Theoretical research