Final answer:
It is true that HR departments are primarily responsible for conducting the performance of operating employees. They focus on employee retention, training, and performance appraisals, all of which are fundamental to the effective operation and success of an organization.
Step-by-step explanation:
The statement that in most organizations, HR departments are primarily responsible for conducting the performance of operating employees is True. HR departments specialize in various functions that are crucial for the successful operation of an organization. They focus on the retention of employees through effective hiring practices and aim to minimize firings while maximizing hirings relative to the organization's size. HR departments also play a key role in reducing bias in the hiring process, thus promoting a fair and inclusive workplace.
Training is another critical area where HR departments contribute significantly. They organize orientation and ongoing training sessions to align employees with the company's culture, values, and operational methodologies, which enhances performance. Furthermore, HR is involved in shaping the evolving manager/employee relationship, moving towards an equal partnership that benefits both the employee and the organization.
Performance appraisals, conducted by HR departments, are intended to be an asset to the organization, helping to align employee performance with organizational goals. However, the effectiveness of performance appraisals can depend on how well they are implemented and whether they fit the organization's culture. This area is a subject of ongoing research in the field of industrial psychology.