Evolving Role of Human Resource Development Theories and Paradigms to Unlock Potential in US Organizations

Abstract

Human resource development (HRD) strategies are critical to corporate resilience and adaptation, while new paradigms are posing a growing challenge to traditional HRD theories. Reexamining and expanding HRD frameworks are becoming essential for US companies to deal with talent management, hybrid work settings, and innovation. Unlocking human potential to gain organizational sustainability requires an understanding of the evolving role of HRD. The emerging role of HRD strategies and paradigms in maximizing the efficiency of the workforce is examined in this conceptual study. Traditional HRD techniques are coming under greater pressure as businesses deal with globalization, market competition, labor demands, and technological development. Focus shifted from human capital theory, adult learning theory, and social exchange theory to more recent concepts like transformational learning, systems thinking, and critical HRD. This paper investigates the three major theories of HRD: psychological, economic, and systems theories, with their implications. - theoretical foundations and developing paradigms in HRD. These frameworks shed light on how businesses may create inclusive, flexible, and strategic learning environments. This paper found HRD theories as a driver of innovation and competitive advantage. It identified performance improvement interventions: communication and HRD interventions as an effective tool to increase the employee performance level. Theory and organizational practice urgently need to be more closely integrated. Adaptive HRD approaches are needed to promote adaptability, resilience, and ongoing learning at all organizational levels in the changing workplace. Practically, this study will encourage practitioners to rethink HRD as a dynamic and strategic partner in organizational development in order to maintain competitiveness and sustained growth in the US economy.

Keywords: HRD theories, performance improvement, skill development, productivity.

DOI: 10.7176/JEP/16-7-07

Publication date: July 30^th 2025