Abstract:
The intensity of strategic HRM (SHRM) practices adopted by two selected
private companies in the manufacturing industry in Sri Lanka was examined
in this study. This research was carried out based on a mixed approach but
centered on a qualitative research method which was designed around face-toface
discussions with four managerial level employees, two from each
company. A structured questionnaire consisting of 40 questions was used in
gathering data. Interviewees were encouraged to express their views on
SHRM practices and the researcher rated the answers on a five point Likert
scale to analyze the data. The intensity of SHRM was measured on five major
dimensions and related contributing elements were investigated under each
dimension to gain insights into the implementation of SHRM practices.
Among the two companies the study found a higher level of intensity from
one company which was a multinational (75%) and a somewhat lower level of
intensity from the other investigated company which is a publicly listed
company (54.2%). The analysis shows the ways in which an organization can
enhance the intensity of SHRM being practiced as it has identified the
practical problems which reduce the level of intensity. The suggestions
subsequently given provide guidance on how an organization can be
successful in developing SHRM through eradicating the possible obstacles.
