What does the process of identifying replacements for key employees through an orderly plan refer to?

Succession planning is the process that specifically focuses on identifying and preparing replacements for key employees within an organization. This strategic approach ensures that there is a smooth transition when pivotal roles become vacant due to retirement, promotion, or unexpected departures. By having an orderly plan in place, organizations can proactively develop talent within their ranks, ensuring continuity and minimizing disruption to operations.

This process involves assessing the competencies required for key positions and systematically identifying individuals who show the potential to step into those roles. Through targeted development programs and mentoring, organizations equip these potential successors with the skills and experience necessary to succeed when the time comes.

In contrast, personnel planning generally pertains to the broader aspects of workforce management, including staffing levels and job requirements, while employee development focuses specifically on enhancing skills and competencies through training and experience. Leadership training, meanwhile, is a component of developing current or future leaders but does not encompass the complete strategy of identifying and preparing successors for key positions specifically.