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ABSTRACT
This is a Human Resource Management (HRM) case used to encourage student thought and discussion following a class segment on recruiting. Midwest Education, Inc.: A Human Resource Management Case is used to exemplify many of the human resource problems encountered in a typical complex organization. It provides history and background of the company, Midwest Education, Inc. (which is closely modeled after a major developer and supplier of educational materials). The case presents the three major divisions of the company and shows how each is following a different strategy. With this background, the case presents the current problems which arise as the company seeks to change from ad hoc recruiting practices to a planned, strategically aligned process. As the case develops, it is seen that corporate headquarters is challenging the HR directors of each of the operating divisions to address recruiting issues through a systematic approach. Readers are challenged to determine what issues are most pressing during the recruiting process, and to develop comprehensive recruiting plans for the divisions.
Keywords: HRM case; recruiting; strategy
INTRODUCTION
Midwest Education, Inc. is a major supplier of educational materials for the United States. The company focus is on learning tools and systems for use in technology, science and business classrooms. In addition, it develops and provides books, manuals, videos, software and hardware used in the fields of technology education, instructional development and business applications.
The company has its headquarters and primary manufacturing plant in a major Midwest commumty. In addition, the Creative Development offices are located in Massachusetts and California. Transportation, Service and Maintenance facilities are headquartered out of Texas, with major branches in Baltimore and Phoenix.
The three main divisions exemplify three different strategies: c ost-reduction, quality enhancement, and innovation (as discussed by Schüler and Jackson, 1987).
Transportation, Service and Maintenance
The primary strategy of the Transportation, Service and Maintenance Division is cost-reduction. Midwest Education, Inc. has long been known for providing service and maintenance programs which are very reasonably priced.
Manufacturing
The primary strategy of the Manufacturing Division is quality enhancement. Midwest education, Inc. has an enviable history of providing the highest quality products which have been adopted by first-rate schools and corporate training programs.
Creative Development
The primary strategy of the Creative Development Division...