Learn how gap analysis data is key to setting goals when developing a staffing plan, an important concept for the SHRM-SCP certification exam. Understand the role of reconciling workforce supply and demand.
Table of Contents
Question
As part of a new CHRO’s onboarding activities a workforce analysis was conducted. As a team building exercise she is facilitating the HR team in the development of a staffing plan that will be presented to leadership. What guides the goals for the plan?
Answer
Gap analysis data. The process of reconciling the differences between supply and demand establishes the goals and objectives for the staffing plan.
Explanation
When developing a staffing plan to present to leadership, the goals of the plan should be primarily guided by gap analysis data. A gap analysis involves assessing the organization’s current workforce supply (the employees and skills currently available) and comparing that to the forecasted workforce demand (the employees and skills that will be needed in the future to meet business objectives).
The process of reconciling the differences between the current supply and future demand is what establishes the key goals and objectives for the staffing plan. For example, the gap analysis may reveal a shortage of employees with critical skills, or an oversupply of employees in certain areas. These gaps then become the focus of the staffing plan.
The staffing plan should include specific goals and action items to close the identified gaps, such as:
- Talent acquisition targets to hire employees with needed skills
- Reskilling/upskilling plans to develop critical skills in current employees
- Redeployment plans to shift talent from areas of oversupply to areas of shortage
- Succession plans to prepare for future leadership needs
- Diversity & inclusion goals to ensure an optimally balanced workforce
By basing the staffing plan goals on the workforce gaps identified through analysis, the HR team can develop a plan that directly addresses the organization’s most pressing workforce needs. This data-driven approach ensures the staffing plan will be strategic, relevant and impactful in supporting the achievement of business objectives.
SHRM Senior Certified Professional (SHRM-SCP) certification exam practice question and answer (Q&A) dump with detail explanation and reference available free, helpful to pass the SHRM-SCP exam and earn SHRM-SCP certification.