Common Good Human Resource Management (CGHRM) is a research cluster for innovation in people management which focuses on exploring a common-good approach to HRM while critically examining existing practices and their implications for individuals, organisations, and society.
The common-good approach assumes a society comprising individuals whose own good is linked to the good of the community. A common-good approach considers the long-term consequences of actions and policies on both current and future generations. It promotes the idea that the wellbeing of employees is connected to the wellbeing of the community, and that actions and policies should be guided by the goal of advancing the common good for all members of society. It also prioritises sustainable practices that preserve natural resources, protect the environment, and ensure the well-being of future generations.
The research cluster aims to explore new and innovative ways of HRM by establishing a common-good mind set as an alternative to a neoclassical model of win-win approach of the current HRM. A key objective of the Centre is to facilitate collaboration among academics across faculties at the OU and international partners on relevant issues, leading to discussions about enhancing the current involvement of HR functions in addressing societal challenges. Specifically, we aim to engage individuals from various faculties at the OU and businesses who share our passion for a common-good approach, collaborating with them to identify and implement changes.
The OU’s CGHRM cluster was established in November 2023 by academic, Olga Andrianova, in collaboration with other universities such as WU Vienna Business School of Economics, Dr Brian Mathews and Prof. Michael Graben-Mueller. It facilitates a shift towards more innovative ways to HRM, ensuring that the global challenges associated with employability, leadership and other social issues are addressed. The Centre creates a common understanding of how HR can consider environmental issues - not only from an economic perspective but from the perspective of nature as a common good.
Thus, the research of the CGHRM cluster addresses societal challenges by promoting a common-good approach and questioning underlying assumptions and power dynamics to uncover potential inequalities, injustices, and limitations within an organisation and beyond. It offers a framework for ethical decision-making and social change, emphasising solidarity, justice, and sustainability.
We seek to assemble a diverse group capable of developing potential and engagement with FBL modules through research linked to common good HRM, securing grants, and providing consultancy services. By sharing research and policy briefs, the Centre aims to influence the future direction of HR policy and standards, supporting academics and businesses in addressing societal challenges.
These areas of expertise equip practitioners in Common Good HRM to effectively navigate the complex challenges of promoting sustainable, ethical, and socially responsible HRM practices that contribute to the wellbeing of both individuals and communities.
Date: Thursday 26 September
Time: 10:00am - 11:30am
This event, marking Human Resource Professional Day, is organised by the International Common Good HRM Network in collaboration with the CGHRM Research Cluster of The Open University Business School.
For more information and to register your booking, select this link: Easy Talks for Common Good events page.
Either send your email to the Director of the OU’s Common Good HRM: Dr Olga Andrianova under olga.andrianova@open.ac.uk or to CGHRM-Network@open.ac.uk
Join our LinkedIn group for further updates within our community of practitioners: International Common Good HRM Network