Ulrich Model


Over the last two decades the Ulrich model has become the standard way for large complex organisations to organise their HR service delivery. Learn the strengths and weakness of the model and consider case study evidence and practical implementation advice to ensure you implement the model effectively.

Technique Overview

Ulrich Model

Ulrich Model Definition

David Ulrich, in his book HR Champions, identified four roles that HR professional plays: employee champion, administrative expert, change agent and strategic partner. He argued that "employee champions deliver competent and committed employees, administrative experts deliver efficient HR practices, change agents deliver capacity for change in individual behaviour and organisational culture, and strategic partners deliver business results" (Ulrich & Brockbank, 2005).

Ulrich Model Description *

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Business Evidence

Strengths, weaknesses and examples of Ulrich Model *

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Business Application

Implementation, success factors and measures of Ulrich Model *

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Professional Tools

Ulrich Model videos and downloads *

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Further Reading

Ulrich Model web and print resources *

Ulrich Model references (4 of up to 20) *

  • Aitchison, D. (2007) HR Transformation: Myth or Reality. HROA Europe and Sharedpertise Forums in Association with TPI. Survey report January 2007.
  • Arthur, J .S. (2001). Seeking Equilibrium. Human Resource Executive. Vol.15(7). pp. 34-38.
  • Becker B. E., M. A. Huselid, and D. Ulrich. (2001). The HR scorecard: Linking people, strategy, and performance. Cambridge, MA: Harvard Business School Press.
  • Boselie, P. & Paauwe, J. (2004). Human resource function competencies in European Companies. Personnel Review, Vol. 34(5), pp.550-566.

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