Introduction

Abstract

As we move into the last decade of the twentieth century, we are often reminded of how rapidly our world is changing. Yesterday’s political, social, economic, and technological certainties seem frequently disrupted and reconfigured. While some changes, such as EC 1993, have been anticipated, others, such as the breakup of the U.S.S.R. have come mostly by surprise. Whether foreseeable or unforeseen, enormous changes are transforming our institutions and how we operate in them. In this context, the editors of this volume have elected to begin this book with a section on the HR function in transition. If our institutions are changing so dramatically, then acknowledging that change becomes a necessary starting point for all of our professional endeavors. Given that starting point, the editors have selected three articles that address the HR function in transition. These articles envision opportunities for effective HR practice in an unfamiliar world.