This refers to Indrajit Gupta's column "Are people really your biggest asset?" (Strategic Intent, February 24). In business enterprises, it is almost customary to consider employees as resources and assets. The author is correct in contesting the very idea as to whether "man" could also be treated as resources in a way similar to materials, machines or methods.
When we talk about a resource, it is supposed to deliver in a predetermined and profitable way to have a sustainable business. If it does not perform, it becomes a liability and we try to get rid of it.
Obviously, human beings - because of their unfailing evolution process - are far from satisfying the conditions for being considered as resources. Human beings can be "trained" to design systems and procedures to effectively utilise the other three resources. The role here is more of a creator or an enabler who needs to evolve in order to make a difference in business.
Ashok Chakrabarty Kolkata
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