The essence of HRD orientation: evidence from the Finnish metals industry

This article introduces the term human resource development (HRD) orientation as the key factor affecting the use of training and development activities in companies. In the study, several strategic approaches to HRD are identified and treated as components of HRD orientation. The usability of the concept is tested with data from Finnish metals industry companies. The results show that the differences in the way companies perceive the role of HRD in business are related to the differences in HRD orientation. In addition, the most common forms of HRD orientation are studied. The usability of the concept is tested with data from Finnish metals industry companies. The results show that the differences in the way companies perceive the role of HRD in business are related to the differences in HRD orientation. In addition, the most common forms of HRD orientation are studied. It is suggested that companies tend to choose between emphasizing either training needs or strategic capabilities in their HRD.