Member Reviews
In "Built for People", Jessica Zwaan looks at all HR processes from Product Manager's perspective and applies typical practices to people management. Every process from hiring people to supporting them in their careers and helping managers to make the best of their team. The author doesn't fail to mention that people are not machines, so those principles and tools are there to help, but not to rule.
The book has a good structure and a comprehensive approach. Suggestions that are based on PM methods should serve a great deal and are not out of place. I loved the case studies that are included in the topics, they they complement the discussion and enhance the meaning and usefulness of the recommendations.
"Built for People" is a fine handbook for People Managers, them being HR specialists or team leaders in any field.
Built for People is a insightful book that challenges traditional HR practices and presents a new way of thinking about people management. The book challenges conventional HR practices and provides practical guidance on how to transform the people function using a Project Management mindset.
The author, Jessica Zwaan, provides a comprehensive guide to developing people-centric ways of working, evidence-based decision making, and a culture of continuous feedback and iteration. She covers everything from the benefits of this approach to practical guidance on how to develop an employee experience that attracts, engages, and retains talent, while supporting them to operate at their full potential.
The book is well-structured and provides practical tools, case studies, exercises, and advice from those who are already seeing the benefits of a product-management approach. The importance of user research, sprint planning, vision development, and how to encourage a continuous feedback loop in your team is also discussed in detail.
One of the most impressive aspects of Built for People is the emphasis on testing and iteration and how to define metrics for success. The book also addresses the challenges of organisational change, company culture clashes, and how to build and improve overall business performance and employee experience at scale.
It is pitched for HR and business leaders but as a Marketing professional, I found the content to be invaluable. The guidance can be used in all departments looking to to develop an agile, innovative, and evidence-based approach to their people operations.