It might be helpful to think about HR as a tree.  The foundational concepts of "merit," "laws, rules, policies," and "shared definitions" serve as the deep roots that anchor the entire structure. These roots establish the foundational principles of fairness, legality, and clarity in HR practices. Just as roots provide stability and nourishment to a tree, these foundational elements ensure that HR decisions are based on merit, comply with regulations, and maintain consistency in terminology and procedures.

Branching out from these roots are the five key areas of HR:

• Recruitment, Onboarding, and Retention

• Compensation

• Employee Support

• Employment Law

• Position Management

• Performance Management

Each of these areas represents a vital aspect of HR management, akin to the branches that extend from the tree's sturdy roots. They encompass specific functions such as hiring, benefits administration, legal compliance, workforce planning, and performance evaluation, which are essential for the overall health and growth of the organization.

By understanding HR in this analogy, HR professionals can appreciate how the deep roots of merit, laws, rules, policies, and definitions provide the necessary foundation for cultivating effective HR practices across the organization. Just as a tree flourishes with strong roots and expansive branches, organizations thrive when HR operations are grounded in foundational principles and supported by diverse functional areas that contribute to organizational success.