Abiotic (Human Resources)

"Abiotic" in Human Resources (HR) isn't a standard term, but it refers to the non-living elements and factors that influence the workplace environment and employee experience, like company culture, physical workspace (temperature, light), technology, policies (non-living rules), and even economic conditions, all impacting "biotic" (living) employees, much like ecosystem factors affect organisms. Think of HR managing the abiotic workplace structure to support the bioticworkforce. 

Examples of Abiotic Factors in HR:

• Physical Environment: Office layout, lighting, temperature, ergonomics.

• Policies & Procedures: Non-living rules, compensation structures, benefits, performance systems.

• Technology & Tools: Software, hardware, communication platforms.

• Organizational Culture: Values, mission, communication flow (the "atmosphere").

• External Factors: Economic shifts, legal regulations, market demands. 

How HR Uses This Concept:

• Employee Well-being: Ensuring a healthy abiotic environment (comfortable space, fair policies) to support employees.

• Talent Management: Designing systems (abiotic) that attract, develop, and retain living (biotic) talent.

• Change Management: Adapting the workplace (abiotic) in response to business needs or external shifts. 

In essence, HR manages the foundational, non-living aspects of work to ensure the success of the people within it, creating a functional "human ecosystem".