Antecedents and Outcomes of HR Devolution: A Meta-synthesis Approach

Line managers’ HR role is considerably highlighted, and HR devolution is a definite future in organizational landscape. Accordingly, the principal objective of this study is to present a comprehensive framework of antecedents of strengthening line managers’ HR role and uncover its multi-level outcomes.

In line with the purpose of this study, all indicators, concepts, and categories of HR devolution were identified using the meta-synthesis qualitative research method. 113 manuscripts were identified by searching through authenticate scientific datasets sources. Finally, the data from 46 relevant research conducted in this field were selected and analyzed.

Using seven-step model of Sandelowski and Barroso, the findings of 46 previous studies related to the objectives of the study were reviewed, aggregated, combined, and interpreted. A total number of 28 codes, five themes, and two dimensions were identified and validated through Kappa Cohen coefficient. The results indicate that precursors of HR devolution can be categorized into two main dimensions including organizational and psychological factors. Additionally, devolving HR to the line can affect outcome at three individuals, group, and organizational levels.

Utilization of line managers’ HR role creates several competitive advantages in various levels of organization. Nonetheless, it should be noticed that an equal and concurrent attention to both organizational factors and line managers’ psychological elements is of utmost important. Moreover, the framework offered in this study which sheds light on different aspects of HR devolution, provides a basis for future studies