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IHRM CH 2
IHRM CH 2
Chapter 2
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Chapter Objectives
In
this chapter, we examine how international growth
places demands on management, and the factors that
impact on how managers of internationalizing firms
responds to these challenges. We start with the premise
that the human resource (HR) function does not operate
in a vacuum, and that HR activities are determined by,
and influence, organisational factors. We cover the
following areas:
structural responses to international growth
(cont.)
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internationalization
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Stages of internationalization:
Exporting
Sales subsidiary
Replacing foreign agents/distributors with own
through sales or branch offices/subsidiaries
May be prompted by:
Problems with foreign agents
More confidence in international activities
Desire for greater control
Give greater support to exporting activities
PCNs may be selected, leading to some HR
involvement
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International Division
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Figure 2-5:
International division
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Figure 2-6a:
Global product Figure 2-6b: Global Area Division
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The Matrix
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Control Mechanisms
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HR factors
HR issues and activities that affect the
successful functioning of international joint
ventures include:
Assigning mangers to the joint venture
Evaluating their performance
Handling aspects pertaining to career
path
Compensation benefits
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Chapter Summary
The purpose of this chapter has been to identify the HR
implications of the various options and responses that
international growth places on the firm. This chapter
focused on:
The organizational context in which IHRM activities take
place. Different structural arrangements have been
identified as the firm moves along the path to multinational
status – from export department through to more complex
varieties such as the matrix, heterarchy, transnational and
networked.
Control and coordination aspects. Formal and informal
mechanisms were outlined, with emphasis on control
through personal networks and relationships, and control
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through corporate culture, drawing out HRM implications.
(cont.)
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