Transforming human resource management for unlocking business efficiency

Abstract

The increasing complexity of the business environment forces organizations to rethink their management models, particularly with regard to human capital. In this context, human resource departments have assumed a strategic role in achieving competitive advantages and generating long-term value. Based on this premise, the present study focuses on analyzing how people management influences key variables such as economic performance, customer perception, and corporate image. To this end, the study is grounded in a theoretical review that allows for the identification of the main human resource practices with organizational impact, including internal promotion, training, inclusion policies, work-life balance, compensation systems, and ethical principles in the workplace. At the same time, the role of technology in organizational transformation is incorporated into the analysis, assessing its potential contribution both to business performance and to the achievement of sustainability criteria, measured through ESG indicators. Additionally, operational human resource variables are considered, such as employee turnover, employee satisfaction, productivity, and labor costs. Unlike much of the existing literature, which tends to focus on specific sectors and relies on cross-sectional data, this study adopts a broader and more dynamic perspective. Specifically, longitudinal data will be used to observe the evolution of the variables over time, allowing for a more comprehensive understanding of the proposed relationships. Furthermore, the sample will consist of publicly listed companies from different geographical contexts-both European and international-in order to capture the influence of institutional and cultural factors. The present research aims to deepen the existing knowledge of the proposed relationships in order to overcome the limitations identified in the literature. In this regard, the results will enable a better understanding of human capital management, contributing not only to the improvement of organizational functioning, but also to the strengthening of competitiveness and organizational development, while generating shared value among all stakeholders.