,UB3702 Assi
INTRODUCTION
Human resource management (HRM) in the public sector
plays a central role in ensuring that government institutions
function effectively and deliver services efficiently to
citizens. In South Africa, public organisations operate within
a constitutional and legislative framework that emphasises
accountability, transparency, equity and service delivery.
Public sector human resource management (PSHRM) is
therefore not merely administrative in nature; it has a strong
management perspective that integrates planning,
organising, leading and controlling people in pursuit of
public objectives.
This portfolio discusses the management perspective of
HRM, explains the meaning of “public” in public sector
human resource management, identifies the various
resources utilised in the HRM process, evaluates whether
HRM is the sole responsibility of HR offices, and critically
analyses HRM as an integrated process in South African
public organisations. It concludes with a comprehensive
definition of public sector human resource management.
1. The Management Perspective of the Human Resource
Function
If the human resource function has a management
perspective, it implies that HRM is not limited to routine
personnel administration such as record-keeping, payroll or
, leave management. Instead, it involves the application of
core management functions to people within an organisation.
The management perspective includes:
Planning – Determining future human resource needs
through workforce planning and forecasting.
Organising – Designing organisational structures,
allocating responsibilities and establishing reporting
lines.
Leading – Motivating employees, promoting ethical
conduct, and ensuring effective communication.
Controlling – Monitoring performance, ensuring
compliance with legislation and evaluating HR
outcomes.
In the South African public sector, this perspective aligns
with constitutional values such as efficiency, accountability
and responsiveness. HR managers must therefore align
human resource strategies with departmental strategic plans
and national development goals.
2. Meaning of “Public” in Public Sector Human Resource
Management
The word “public” refers to government institutions that
serve the general population rather than private
shareholders. It includes national, provincial and local
government departments, public entities and state-owned
enterprises.