Introduction

The unit about understanding organizations and the HR role is part of CIPD Level 3. It's for
people in HR already or those wanting HR or L&D careers. Assignments need critical thinking,
analysis, and a good grasp of the topic. The unit teaches about organizations and why HR
matters. Assessment is based on the course goals.For students to complete the unit they should
be able to correctly answer questions presented in this assignment. The unit grading criteria is
either a pass or fail. In most cases, students are asked to come up with an organisation or identify
an existing organisation that they will use to complete the assessments. Alternatively, the
examiner may pick one organisation and test the students understanding of the unit based on that
organisation. Sample assessment questions are as discussed below.

You have been asked to provide a written brief for a new line manager
that is set to start working in your organisation. The manager should
understand the organisation as he prepares to start on his new job.
Question one: There are there questions in this section derived from the
first unit objective: understanding the purpose of an organisation and its
operating environment.
1. What is the purpose and goal of the organisation?
The learner is expected to give the primary objectives of the identified company. The primary
goal of an organisation are usually communicated to all employees or even posted on their
website. The answer should identify the products and services offered/ produced by the
company. To earn additional points, learners can elaborate on the company’s vision and mission
statements which are usually related to the organisational goals. An organisation’s mission and
vision statements are essential in attaining the organisational goals.

2. What products and services does the company offer to its customers?
To comprehensively answer this question, the learner should mention all products and (or
services) produced by the company. If the organisation deals with a range of products, the
learner should ensure that they categorise all the products based on their similarities. To
exemplify the above; An IT company may specialize in supply of computers and software’s. The
company may also diversify its services into communication technology. When answering this
question, the student should differentiate the services from the products for better clarity (Selling
of computers and accessories is different from communication services). The target customers
and primary market should also be mentioned in answering this question.

3. Discuss the external factors influencing the organisation

To meet the criterion, the learner should conduct the PESTLE analysis of the identified
organisation. Political factors should be relevant to the industry in which the organisation
 operates in. Social, Economic, technological and legal factors are all external issues that can
influence a given organisation. Nevertheless, student should remain relevant to the organisation
of choice when analyzing the external factors influencing the organisation.

Question two relates to the second unit objective. The examiner seeks to
test the students understanding of the structure, function and culture of an
organisation.
1. Briefly discuss the predominant structure of the organisation.
Here the student should demonstrate understanding of the existing different organisational
structures (i.e. flatarchy structure, matrix structure, functional structure or divisional structure).
In another paragraph, the student should specifically discuss the structure used in the
organisation. Additional points will be earned for students who can have a flow chart
representation of the structure. If the organisation has different structures in different
departments, the students should include it in their answer as it will give more clarity to the brief.

2. Explain the relationship between four functions of the identified organisational structure.
To meet the criterion for this question, the learner should identify four functions of the identified
organisation structure and explain how the functions work together to attain the organisational
goals. Mentioning the importance of constant communication within the system is an indication
of team work to attain the desired goal. Both the challenges and advantages of the relationship of
the four functions should also be discussed.

3. What is the culture in the organisation?

The learner should demonstrate understanding of organisational culture by first defining it.
Referencing organisational culture theories is essential in relating the organisation to a particular
culture. The answer should also give the advantages and disadvantages of the culture used within
the organisation. To further answer this question, students can elaborate on the influence of the
culture on operations of the organisation.

Questions in the third section relate to the role of HR in the organisation

1. Discuss three ways the HR supports the organisational goals and strategies
To answer this question, the student should demonstrate understanding of the three core
functions of the HR. Training and development, recruitment and implementation of policies and
procedures are some of the critical roles that the HR plays in an organisation. The answer should
make reference to the activities of the chosen organisation. Learners should also ensure to relate
each function/role with the activities of the organisation being discussed.

2. Explain the role of HR in supporting line managers

The HR department's main job is to help all employees. They assist line managers with problems
like discipline and complaints. HR also makes sure company rules and laws are followed. If rules
are broken, it can lead to legal issues, costing the company money and time.

Assessment Criteria

The assessment needs the student to write a report of 1500-2500 words (plus or minus 10%) on
one or more of the questions above. The report should relate to academic ideas, professional
methods, and theories thoughtfully. Use Harvard style for referencing, and include a
bibliography if needed. The word count doesn't include the bibliography.