UCD HR Supporting the Quality Review Process The Human Resource (HR) Model at UCD In 2007, UCD Personnel re-structured and re-named as UCD HR (Human Resources). A key goal of the re-structuring was to enable the unit to provide a more tailored and strategic support service to the management and staff of the University. The revised structure and service areas are illustrated below. Supporting the Quality Review Process HR Partners & Organisation Development The overall aim of the Quality Review process is described as a developmental process to manage for continuous quality improvement. This aim aligns with that of UCD HR working as a strategic partner to enable continuous development of the University and the local Academic and Support units. For the purposes of the Quality Review, two roles within the HR team are key HR Partner and Organisation Development. As part of their services, both areas work together to facilitate units in conducting the staffing and organisation aspects of the Quality Review Process. They draw on the expertise of other HR and Support unit inputs as necessary during the process. It should be noted that the HR support proposed here is primarily of a facilitative nature. Any proposals or recommendations developed by the Academic or Support unit as part of the Quality Review process are considered to be owned by the unit and are subject to the standard University approval mechanisms. HR Partner (HRP) A HR Partner has been assigned to each of the Colleges and some of the Support units in the University. The role is similar to that of a local HR Consultant whose primary function is to assist and support the College and School/ Support unit management in the effective implementation of UCD policies, practices and initiatives relating to staff management, and the input of best practice on the identification, design and delivery of staff-related projects. HR Partners routinely provide support across a wide range of operational HR matters. In addition, they aim to offer support in more strategic areas such as reviewing organisational structures, resource and succession planning, staff development and communications. Organisation Development (OD) Organisation Development is a specialist unit located in the HR Strategy & Development team. The unit focuses on enabling continuous organisational improvement at the University. Page 1 of 5
It works with management on the development of clear, cohesive and effective structures and roles, management processes and planned capability, and the development of a positive working culture, all delivered through the application of leading project and change management practices. Quality Review Process & Supports Available The Quality Review Process (illustrated below with five chevrons) is designed to be a selfreflection exercise managed and owned by the Academic (College/ School/ Research Institute) and Support units. In providing support, UCD HR may facilitate these units in conducting the staffing and organisation aspects of this process. The proposed supports available are outlined below. Page 2 of 5
Description of Facilitation Services Available 2.1 Unit Context/ Strategic Planning & Associated Staffing Requirements Facilitating the unit to explore and clarify its context and/ or strategy Academic Unit: Introduction & Context of Unit; Staff & Facilities Current Resourcing Support Unit: Introduction & Details of Unit; Planning, Organisation & Management Strategic Plan 2.2 Communications Facilitating the unit in defining and critically analysing current communication structures and processes within the unit Academic Unit: Organisation & Management Communications Support Unit: Planning, Organisation & Management Communications 2.3 Management Structures Facilitating the unit in defining and critically analysing current management structures and processes within the unit Academic Unit: Organisation & Management Structures, Roles* Support Unit: Planning, Organisation & Management Management Structure Page 3 of 5
* Note: support in this area may be extended to a broader facilitated review of the entire unit structure, if required by the Academic Quality Review Process 2.4 Workload Facilitating the unit in exploring current workload management practices within the unit Academic Unit: Organisation & Management - Workloads 2.5 Staff Development Facilitating the unit in exploring how it develops and involves its workforce in achieving improvements Academic Unit: Staff & Facilities Staff Development Support Unit: Management of Resources Staff Development 2.6 SWOT, Overall Analysis & Recommendations Facilitating the unit in identifying perceived Strengths, Weaknesses, Opportunities & Threats (SWOT) and proposals for addressing same Academic Unit: SWOT, Overall Analysis & Recommendations for Improvement Support Unit: SWOT, Overall Analysis & Recommendations for Improvement Page 4 of 5
Contacts For more information regarding available facilitative support services, please contact your local HR Partner (see details below). Where your unit does not currently have access to a HR Partner, please contact Claire O Malley, HR Relationship Director (claire.omalley@ucd.ie; Ext. 4951) to explore alternative resourcing arrangements. If you would like to discuss specific Organisation Development challenges currently being experienced by your unit, you may also contact Sandra Coughlan, Organisation Development Manager, UCD HR (sandra.coughlan@ucd.ie; Ext. 4942). Page 5 of 5