HRM3703
Assessment 06 Semester 2 2024
Due Date: 1 November 2024
HR Information Systems and Technology
ANSWERS;
Question 1
1.1 (a) Three Areas for Improvement in the Employee Social Media Policy for
Company X
1. Privacy and Confidentiality
While the policy mentions avoiding statements that could harm Company X’s
reputation, it doesn’t fully address respecting client and colleague privacy on social
media. Addressing confidentiality is vital because social media can sometimes
result in accidental disclosures (Dreher, 2014). To improve, Company X should
include a section on safeguarding private information, specifying that employees
shouldn’t disclose internal data, project details, or sensitive information about
clients or colleagues. A statement like, “avoid discussing any internal or client-
related information on social media” would strengthen the policy.
2. Clear Consequences for Violations
The policy does not outline consequences, which makes it harder for employees
to understand the seriousness of breaches. According to Morgan (2017), a policy
is more effective when employees know the potential outcomes of
noncompliance. Including a section on consequences, such as warnings,
disciplinary action, or termination for severe violations, could reinforce the policy’s
authority. A phrase like, “Any violation of this policy may result in disciplinary
, action ranging from a warning to termination, depending on severity,” would
clarify potential repercussions.
3. Guidelines on Professional Use and Crisis Management
The policy should also cover professional conduct and crisis management,
guiding employees on how to handle online comments about the company. As
Lipschultz (2021) suggests, crisis management guidelines help ensure
consistency and protect the company’s image. Including a statement like, “In the
event of negative feedback about the company, employees should notify the
communications team rather than responding individually,” would help employees
know how to handle such situations.
1.1 (b) Suggestions for Ensuring Adherence to the Policy
1. Regular Training and Reminders
Company X should conduct regular workshops or annual training sessions to
review and clarify the social media policy with real-life examples, as training
reinforces policy retention (Morgan, 2017). Reminders through emails or visual
materials in common areas can also help keep the policy visible.
2. Making the Policy Easily Accessible
Posting the policy in a shared, accessible digital space, like an intranet or
employee portal, ensures employees can revisit it when needed. Company X
could also incorporate a quiz or acknowledgment feature during onboarding, as
repetition is essential for adherence (Dreher, 2014).
1.2 Sujaniambe Wholesalers Case Study
(a) Responsibility to Safeguard Employee Information
Yes, Sujaniambe Wholesalers has a legal and ethical responsibility to safeguard
employee data. South Africa’s Protection of Personal Information Act (POPIA)