Assignment 3 Semester 1 2026
Unique number:
Due Date: 14 April 2026
This document includes:
Helpful answers and guidelines
Detailed explanations and/ or calculations
References
Connect with the tutor on
+27 81 278 3372
, QUESTION 1
Formal HRM practices are important even in a small business like Clean and Fresh
Laundry Services. The business depends on workers to deliver good service and
keep customers satisfied. HRM includes planning, recruitment, training, performance
management, rewards, employee relations and wellbeing. These practices support
productivity, staff retention and long term growth (HRM3701 Study Guide, 2026;
Armstrong and Taylor, 2023).
Ulrich HR Roles Overview
Ulrich identifies four HR roles which are strategic partner, administrative expert,
employee champion and change agent. These roles help align people with business
goals, improve systems, protect employee interests and support change in
organisations (HRM3701 Study Guide, 2026).
Strategic Partner
The strategic partner role ensures that HR practices support business goals. At
Clean and Fresh, this role is missing. Pumeza does not link people management to
business planning. Workers complain about low salaries, lack of benefits and no
career growth. This shows poor workforce planning and weak alignment with
business needs. Sustainability is affected because experienced workers may leave,
and service quality may decline. Competitiveness is also reduced because a
competitor offers better conditions. If this role is implemented, the business can plan
staffing properly, improve rewards and retain skilled workers. This would support
stable operations and better service delivery (HRM3701 Study Guide, 2026).
Administrative Expert
The administrative expert focuses on efficient HR systems and fair procedures.
Clean and Fresh does not have proper HR systems and depends on informal advice.
This creates inconsistency in pay, leave and employee management. Workers may
feel unfairly treated, which increases conflict and dissatisfaction. Sustainability is at
risk because poor systems weaken trust and increase legal exposure.
Competitiveness is also affected because inefficient processes reduce productivity.
Implementing this role would help create clear policies, proper contracts and
© Study Shack 2026. All rights Reserved +27 81 278 3372