Emergence of Shared HRM Practices as Between SMEs in Clusters: Lessons From Six Cases in France
The purpose of this article is to analyze the emergence and the nature of human resources management (HRM) systems and practices shared by SMEs within territorial networks of cluster-type organizations. By using the multi-case study method, the analysis of six clusters in France enabled the identification of HRM practices shared by SMEs of three types (aborted, planned, implemented) involving four types of HRM practice (communication, training, recruitment and skills management). The analysis of these systems and practices through the proximity approach highlights the importance of geographic proximity, combined with the socio-economic proximity of resources and coordination, in the emergence of HRM practices in clusters. In addition, the place of trust related to the management of the cluster is discussed.