HRM4012—Spring 2024

HRP Exercise 1
Purpose and Process:

The purpose of this activity is to help you to develop your skill in conducting the first step in HR forecasting. Please
work with one other student registered in the same CRN (section) of the course (choose your own partner). The
deadline to submit your completed exercise is May 12 at 23:59. Submit your exercise 1 as a word document using the
Brightspace “submit” tool on our course shell. This assignment is worth 5% of your final grade for the course. Your
completed assignment should be a maximum of two pages single spaced.

Background:

The first step in HR forecasting and planning is developing a solid understanding of the organization’s goals and plans
and analyzing the environmental factors that will influence the organization during the planning horizon.

It is critical for HR planners to have a thorough understanding of the organization (meaning a solid knowledge of why the
organization exists and how it conducts its operations). We must know which environmental factors impact the demand
for the products or services the organization delivers (primary demand). The primary demand for the organization’s
products or services is directly related to the number and type of workers the organization will require (future HR
demand). When we know which factors influence the primary demand for the organization’s products or services, we
can conduct research to see if and how those factors are expected to change during the planning horizon. If there is
likely to be a change in the demand for the product or service, we can then calculate what impact this will have on the
need for workers during the planning horizon.

See page 3 of this document for information on how you will be graded on this assignment (the rubric).

See pages 4 and 5 of this document for examples of environmental assessments that scored well and poorly.

HRP Exercise 1 Tasks:

1. Select the organization (may be your choice or one from the list provided)
2. Organization background. Research the organization to establish the following:
a. sector (for profit/ not for profit/ charity/ government/ other – specify)
b. type (e.g., manufacturing, retail, logistics, food service – restaurant/bar/take out, social services,
recreation, etc.)
c. location (specific street address and neighbourhood if appropriate)
d. year when organization began operations
e. months, days, and hours of operation
f. major products or services provided by the organization
g. clients, customers or users of the organization’s products or services
h. metrics the organization uses to quantify primary demand
3. Environmental factors: Research the specific external and internal factors that influence the demand for the
organization’s products or services – Do not choose randomly!! Explain how and why your choices are relevant.
4. Expected changes: Research expected changes in environmental factors that would impact demand for the
organization’s products or services.
5. Summarize and conclude your findings in a brief, one page report (remember to include the first and last name
of students and include the date produced).
6. Cite the sources you used; use my sample to see the brief version appropriate for this exercise (but not for your
research assignment; for that you must use APA or MLA!!)
 Examples of External and Internal Factors Influencing Primary Demand
External Factors Internal Factors

 The economy  Organization’s mission, mandate,

 Local, provincial and federal politics
 Physical environment; climate & weather
 Crime & criminal activity
 Technology
 Legislation and regulations
 Society and culture
 Tourism & conventions
 Competition/ organizations providing
related services
 + other factors
responsibilities - services which it must
deliver, etc.
 Organization’s goals and plans
 Financial resources
 Organization structure & culture
 Union issues & labour relations
 + internal other factors

Organizations for HRP Exercise 1

Select a real organization that you are familiar with and interested in developing your knowledge of OR select one from
the list below:

 Four Corners Public Library, Brampton, Ontario

 Smokehouse BBQ and Brew, Toronto, Ontario
 William Dam Seeds, West Flamborough, Ontario
 Covenant House Toronto, Toronto, Ontario
 Toronto Botanical Garden, Toronto, Ontario
 Gears Bike Shop, Mississauga, Ontario
 A Different Drummer Books, Burlington, Ontario
 Willowdale School of Music, Toronto, Ontario
 Tri-City Cycle & Sport, Waterloo, Ontario
 The Nice Bistro, Whitby, Ontario
 Gunn’s Hill Artisan Cheese, Woodstock, Ontario
 Toronto Police Service Mounted Unit, Toronto, Ontario
 Windermere House, Windermere, Ontario
 Stubbe Chocolates, Toronto, Ontario
 ++++ many others of your choice
 Exercise 1 Grading Rubric
Criteria Novice (0-2.9) Good (3-3.9) Excellent (4-5) Score

Retrieval of Unsure what information Relevant information Directly related information

information is necessary. Sources from reasonable sources. from relevant, recent,
mainly personal reliable sources
experience & “common”
knowledge” /5

Analysis of Facts not distinguished
information from opinions.
Understanding of
concepts not firm
Facts are separated from Demonstrates solid
opinions. Reasonable but understanding of relevant
limited inferences and concepts. Conclusions
conclusions drawn based on clear analytical
processes. /5

Formatting and Wordy or overly brief
style writing. Ideas and
thoughts not clearly
expressed. Numerous
grammatical or spelling
errors
Total
Ideas are generally clear. Writing is concise and clear.
Some grammatical or Very few grammatical or
spelling errors spelling errors
/5
/15
Name: Deborah Pelly and Doug MacLean Date: Jan. 6, 2023

HRP Exercise 1 – S A M P L E – GOOD

1. Organization: Sunnyside Gus Ryder Outdoor Pool

2. Organizational Background:
a. Sector: Municipal government – not for profit
b. Type: Recreation provider
c. Location: 1755 Lake Shore Blvd W., Toronto, ON (southwest city, near Parkdale neighbourhood)
d. Year operations began: 1925
e. Months, days & hours of operation: 7 days per week in June, July, August & September; evening hours
extended during heat waves
f. Major products or services provided: leisure and lane swimming; swimming lessons
g. Clients, customers, or users: Residents of City of Toronto
h. Metrics used for primary demand: number of swimmers/hour and day; number of swim lesson students
3. Environmental Factors (influencing swimming demand at this pool):
a. Weather – hot weather & heat waves bring more patrons to the pool; cool weather & rain mean fewer
patrons for the pool
b. The local economy – there is no cost for leisure and lane swims at City of Toronto outdoor pools; the City
offers free and low-cost options for swim lessons
c. The local transportation situation – the number of parking spaces near the pool; the number and frequency
of public transportation options to the pool; the number of bike paths to the pool
d. Regulations for numbers of swimmers. Ontario Public Pools Regulation 565: up to 125 swimmers require 2
certified lifeguards and 126-250 swimmers require 3 certified lifeguards
e. Restrictions on numbers of swimmers. The City of Toronto Public Health Officer may impose reductions to
the number of swimmers allowed in pools to reduce the transmission of diseases such as COVID-19
f. Competition: The Boulevard Club is a members-only recreation and social facility nearby but it is expensive
and does not offer drop-in or community recreational swimming or lessons
4. Expected Changes (influencing demand for swimming at this pool):
a. Summer 2023 extended weather forecast not yet available. Summer temperatures have been increasing
over last several years and we can expect regular hot, humid weather for July and August.
b. The local economy will likely experience increasing inflation which means residents of Toronto will have
lower disposable income and therefore have less money to spend on recreation and transportation.
c. The local transportation situation. TTC prices not expected to change during summer 2023. TTC is free for
children (0-13 years); $2.25/ride for youth (13-19) and seniors; $3.25/ride for adults. Gas prices for private
and commercial transportation are expected to increase during the summer of 2023.
d. Regulations on numbers of swimmers not expected to change.
e. Restrictions on numbers of swimmers due to COVID or other public health issues not expected at this time.
f. Competition is not expected to change for summer 2023 – no new outdoor pools or recreation facilities have
been approved for the area.
5. Conclusions: I expect the demand for recreational swimming and swimming lessons to meet or exceed the
levels seen before the pandemic (i.e., the same as or greater numbers of users than in 2017, 2018, and 2019).
6. Sources:
https://www.toronto.ca/data/parks/prd/facilities/complex/433/index.html
https://www.toronto.ca/data/parks/prd/facilities/outdoor-pools/index.html
https://www.blogto.com/city/2013/07/a_brief_history_of_the_sunnyside_swimming_pool/
https://www.ontario.ca/laws/regulation/900565
https://www.boulevardclub.com/Athletics/Aquatics.aspx
https://globalnews.ca/news/5509408/global-warming-average-temperatures-2050-study/
https://www.ttc.ca/Fares-and-passes
 HRP Exercise 1 – S A M P L E – POOR

Presented is a comprehensive study for "Smokehouse BBQ and Brew, Toronto, Ontario," outlining projected
environmental shifts and their influence on the need for human resources.

INTRODUCTION:

Smokehouse BBQ and Brew in Toronto is a discreet and exceptional destination for students in search of a delectable
fusion of tantalizing barbecue and a wide-ranging assortment of craft beers. This establishment has become a popular
destination for people seeking to enjoy the traditional flavors of BBQ in the city center, thanks to its welcoming
atmosphere and affordable costs. Smokehouse BBQ and Brew has become a profitable culinary hotspot in Toronto,
known for its combination of classic BBQ and artisanal beer. This report consolidates crucial environmental aspects that
impact its operations and forecasts the consequences for HR planning.

ORGANIZATION BACKGROUND:

Situated in a vibrant district of Toronto, Smokehouse BBQ and Brew serves a varied customer base in search of high-
quality barbecue and a wide selection of artisanal beers. Due to its location in an urban area, the restaurant receives
customers from both the local community and commuters. This requires a skilled and adaptable crew to provide
consistent service.

Sector:

Smokehouse BBQ and Brew operates as a profit-oriented enterprise, focused on producing revenue through its services.

Type:

The organization operates within the food service sector, specifically as a restaurant and bar that specializes in barbecue
cuisine and craft beers.

Location:

Smokehouse BBQ and Brew is located at 744 Mt Pleasant Rd, Toronto, Ontario.

Commencement Year:

The establishment commenced its operations in

Hours of operation:

Smokehouse BBQ and Brew's operating hours are from 3 pm to 2 am on Mondays to Thursdays and from 1 pm to 2 am
on Saturdays and Sundays.

Major products and services:

The organization is well-known for its wide-ranging assortment of smoked meats, such as ribs and brisket, along with a
variety of appetizers, sides, salads, and craft brews. The establishment offers a diverse dining experience that caters to a
wide range of preferences.

Clients/Customers/Users:
Smokehouse BBQ and Brew serves a diverse clientele, including locals, tourists, and individuals seeking a unique and
flavorful barbecue dining experience. The establishment may also attract craft beer enthusiasts due to its impressive
selection.

Primary demand metrics:

Smokehouse BBQ and Brew uses many measures to measure primary demand, such as sales revenue, customer
feedback, customer retention rates, and the popularity of specific menu items. Online reviews, social media
participation, and repeat business are important indicators for evaluating the demand for their products and services.

Environmental factors:

Smokehouse BBQ and Brew's demand is driven by various environmental elements, including economic changes,
consumer tastes, technical improvements, and sustainability concerns. Internally, the key factors of utmost importance
are menu diversity, operational efficiency, and worker wellbeing. The restaurant's capacity to adjust to these
circumstances is essential for its long-term viability and expansion.

Expected changes:

The year 2024 is expected to witness a mild expansion in the Canadian economy, with a GDP growth rate of 0.9% and
inflation rates persisting within the range of 2% to 3%. Notwithstanding these obstacles, Smokehouse BBQ and Brew can
anticipate a potential increase in consumer expenditure after an anticipated reduction in interest rates in the summer of
2024. The current economic recovery indicates the need for a deliberate expansion of expenditures in human resources
to address the growing demand.

Conclusion:

Smokehouse BBQ and Brew should synchronize its HR strategy with the wider economic landscape and customer
patterns. The restaurant should give priority to implementing adaptable HR planning to effectively respond to
expected economic changes and take advantage of opportunities arising from the changing market conditions.
Sources:

https://smokeshowbbqandbrew.com/ https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=5Tn6wMB89pw

https://implan.com/solutions/?utm_term=canada%20economic%20statistics&utm_campaign=Searc
h_Canada&utm_source=adwords&utm_medium=ppc&hsa_acc=3435734339&hsa_cam=205370293
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1671958534006&hsa_kw=canada%20economic%20statistics&hsa_mt=p&hsa_net=adwords&hsa_ve
r=3&gad_source=1&gclid=Cj0KCQiAqsitBhDlARIsAGMR1Rgp1r0PD_pBnl5LVesxn_WxNy5pn Gr1H_zlF-
AmoZzOFvg0Dx6KrcaAkY-EALw_wcB https://viewthevibe.com/barque-smokehouse-in-toronto/