How do companies conduct workforce planning?
What role does workforce planning play in company growth?
How often should companies review their workforce plans?
Workforce planning is the process of forecasting and managing talent needs to ensure the right people are in the right roles to meet business goals and adapt to change.
Employers begin by analyzing their current workforce, business objectives, and market trends to meet future needs. Next, employers identify skill gaps and develop strategies for hiring, training, or restructuring. They may use data from a human resource information system (HRIS) to monitor workforce metrics and guide talent management decisions.
Workforce planning supports company growth by ensuring the necessary talent is available to support expansion. It guides decisions on hiring strategies, whether full-time staff, independent contractors, or flexible models, and helps allocate human resources effectively for future success.
Companies should review their workforce plans at least quarterly. While annual planning provides a baseline, more frequent check-ins help businesses stay aligned with shifting priorities and market dynamics. Regular reviews allow organizations to anticipate talent needs, close skill gaps early, and avoid reactive staffing decisions that could disrupt operations.
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