Hi,
Don't be disappointed. Sometimes it takes time for people to respond.
As to your query, I would state as under:
In fact, HR is a philosophical orientation of the organization in matters of dealing with people within the organization - individually as well as collectively. This philosophy has to become a common denominator of all functions and work centers. Since the performance of the organization is the sum total of the performance of the people it employs, the challenge of dealing with the people and of getting the best contributions out of them is tremendous.
The quality of interactions between the managers at various levels across different functions determines the status of HR in that organization. Since no two human beings ever behave in an identical manner, the job of HR becomes so much more critical in getting managers to deal with employees in work and off-work situations, in tune with the culture of the organization.
In that sense, the generalist role of HR will focus on establishing the HR philosophy, creating an atmosphere conducive to excellent performance, being the conscience-keeper of the organization, being a facilitator of culture generation, and managing the collectivity of employees from the point of view of systems, uniformity, and consistency of treatment to people, value sanctification, etc.
HR specialists would lay down systems, rules, procedures, and monitoring mechanisms to ensure that things go as per the plan. For that, they use strategies of work designs, training interventions, appraisals, rewards, and punishment systems, etc.
But we will do well to remember that as HR professionals, we are not gods. We will do all that is stated above and more, but only by involving and carrying our people with us, and only then may we succeed.
I know that this is a rather general response to your query, but am hopeful that it would answer your questions.
Regards,
Samvedan
December 14, 2006