Product details

IKEA was one of the largest furniture manufacturers and retailers in the world, with operations in 32 countries (in early 2005). The company was well known for its stylish and innovative designs. It was the pioneer of furniture that could be dismantled and packed flat, to allow ease of transportation. IKEA's main strength was its committed workforce, which was often the source of the company's innovative concepts. IKEA adopted a positive approach toward human resource management. In the late 1990s and early 2000s, the company implemented several initiatives that promoted life balance and diversity. The case discusses the innovative human resource management practices adopted by IKEA and describes its work culture. Initiatives related to flexible work design, comprehensive benefits, quality of work life and employee training and development are outlined. The case also discusses the prominent elements of IKEA's culture, such as: diversity; openness; equality; cost consciousness; and competitiveness.