A descriptive case study of human resource management in a South African construction company

Abstract: Purpose The objective of any company is to attain higher throughput. The role of individuals within a company is essential in the management and continued existence of the business. Employee performance is influenced by a set of human resource management (HRM) practices. Equally, the practice of attracting, developing, and maintaining talented and energetic workers to support the organisational objectives is the aim of HRM. The purpose of this case study is to examine HRM in a South African construction company. In addition, this study identifies common HRM practices and comprehensively explores how well these practices have been implemented, as well as their impact on employee performance. Furthermore, employee performance and factors affecting employee performance have been evaluated. Finally, the study highlights factors that motivate employees. Methodology The data used in this study have been derived from both primary and secondary sources. Fifteen questionnaires were circulated to Human Resource Management Personnel, Senior Management, Departmental Managers, and Union Representatives in the construction company were selected for the study. Since the respondents were purposively selected, a return rate of 87% was attained. The data was analysed using the Statistical Package for the Social Science (SPSS). Findings The results of the analysis reveal that some HRM practices, such as training and development (T&D), performance management and performance appraisals and compensation and benefits, have been adopted. However, performance management and performance appraisals were not fully implemented throughout the firm. Hence, it is suggested that HRM practices should be efficiently employed to enhance employee performance. This would gain a sustainable competitive advantage for the company. Additionally, the study observes that motivated employees perfom at a higher level making it easy for management to motivate them, thus achieving individual and firm objectives. Originality The study adds to existing literature on human resource management in South African construction companies.M.Tech. (Construction Management