Confused About HR Terminology: Is It Human Resource or Human Resources Management?

Peace to all, I just joined this forum today. I was looking for something regarding Human Resource Management, and I came across this site. I would love to get to know fellow practitioners and specialists.

Actually, I was looking for the correct terminology, either Human Resource Management or Human Resources Management. Previously, our division was called Human Resources Management Division. Recently, my new boss says that it should be Human Resource Management Division. So, I need to find out which is more appropriate. Is there anybody out there who can help me?

Assalamu Alaikum,

It would be Human Resource Management... as it is one of the many resources that the company utilizes.

And yes, welcome aboard.

Ajmal Mirza

In the division, there are several departments, namely HR Performance, HR Discipline, HR Operations, and HR Systems. Therefore, shouldn't it be the Human Resources Division?

Not by that logic, but yes, in a lot of companies, the department is known as the "Department of Human Resources." At the same time, some companies prefer the name "Human Resource Department."

"A rose by any other name would still smell the same." - Ajmal Mirza

So, it's okay if we remain as Human Resources? No, the thing is that, even though it may sound trivial, it does involve cost. To change all stamps, door signage, and all—what purpose does it bring if there is nothing wrong with either terminology?

I'm just trying to understand the significance of the change. Does it mean something different with and without the 's'?

Thanks

Hi Azman,

Welcome to the group! As you came and posted the question, it made me think about the basic name itself. Good question from you, Azman. We need to concentrate on the basic name as well.

I think the name must be Human Resource Department because HR deals with only one resource, which is humans. So, it symbolizes that we are dealing with human resources in this department.

Hi there, Sreenivasan,

I think you understand where I'm coming from. Why the difference? Why, since 1993, all these years, it is called 'Resources' only this year they want to change it to 'Resource'? What's the rationale? Maybe if we talk in the context of 'it' as a function, it can be Human Resource, but to name a department, e.g., Human Resources Recruitment Department, can we not just stick to 'Resources' when it is about naming a department? And use 'Resource' when addressing a function, e.g., Human Resource Recruitment function. Would that be okay?

But what about the managers? Shall we call the Human Resource Recruitment Manager?

Hi Aaman,

I tried to understand it but got confused. Okay, I will try to think more and get back to you with a clear frame of mind.

Hi Az,
Though I'm not a practitioner in this field as yet and I'm studying to be one, from what I have come through in books all these years, the terminology "Human Resource Management" or "The Human Resource Department" is the term widely used in corporates worldwide. So I think opting for the change. What say... Even I'm new to the forum and hope to learn a lot from this.

Dear ANNAJITZ,

Thank you for the reply. I have been in this field for 17 years now, ever since it was called Personnel Administration. Although some might feel that it is irrelevant in whatever name, I do believe that it is important for all countries and all people to have one name and one understanding so that we can communicate in one language. This will always be a good starting point.