A more strategic future beckons HR

According to a survey of HRDs by The Strategic HR Network, more than 70% think HR will be seen as a more strategic resource in 2009 but 73% believe HR's budget will be reduced over the next 12 months.

More than half (56%) believe HR strategy at their organisation has not changed due to the economic downturn and more than seven out of 10 still think senior management view HR as a resource that adds strategic value to the business.

However 35% believe HR performs well tactically - on everyday issues - but not strategically.

More than a third (36%) of HRDs think planning for 2009 is the most important issue facing their teams at the moment, 26% claim it is talent management and 17% rate redundancy planning as the most important business issue facing them.

Looking to the year ahead, 40% think talent management will be the most important issue in 2009 and 24% believe it will be strategic planning.

Jeremy Burgess, director of the Strategic HR Network, said: "In today's marketplace, the HR function is clearly very important for any organisation. The results from the survey display a fascinating insight into the thoughts of HRDs and show that, although 70% believe HR will be seen as a more strategic resource in 2009, 73% believe HR budgets will be reduced."