Beyond belief: A benchmark for human resources

Abstract

Many Human Resource (HR) professionalsfeelandbelievethat they have made progress during the 1980s. Unfortunately, without data tobenchmarkprogress, assessments must depend on perception rather than evidence. To move beyond belief towards a national HR database, this article reports research on over 10,000 individuals in 1200 businesses in 91 firms. It establishes a benchmark for HR practices and HR professionals. It also highlights areas where HR professionals may focus attention to become more successful as business partners.