Position Control vs. Position Management

By Brett Derricott

In human resources, the terms "position control" and "position management" are often used interchangeably, but they can have slightly different meanings depending on the context. We’re not opposed to using them interchangeably, but if you want to better understand the subtle differences between the two, read on!

Position Control

Position control refers to the process of establishing and maintaining the structural framework of an organization by defining and tracking individual positions. It involves creating a clear and consistent structure for job titles, responsibilities, and reporting relationships within the organization. Position control ensures that each position is properly authorized, categorized, and accounted for within the organizational hierarchy. Proper position control involves assigning unique position numbers to facilitate planning, tracking, reporting, and maintaining position histories.

Position control involves maintaining an inventory of all positions within an organization, which includes details such as the title, job code, location, position type, and other position attributes. It helps organizations establish a foundation for workforce planning, resource allocation, and compliance with regulatory requirements.

Position Management

Position management, on the other hand, defines the ongoing processes and strategies associated with effectively managing positions within an organization. It involves activities such as approving job requisitions for filling new or existing positions, ensuring that each person is a fit for the position they are currently filling, and helping employees understand the future positions they might hold while working within the organization.

Position management ensures that positions are staffed with qualified individuals who have the necessary skills and competencies to fulfill their roles effectively. Position management aims to maximize the potential of each position and those who fill them to drive organizational success. Position management can also be described as the ongoing assessment, development, and administration of individual positions within an organization to ensure alignment with organizational goals and priorities.

In summary, while position control primarily focuses on the structural aspects of positions within an organization, position management emphasizes the ongoing processes related to those individual positions. Learn more about how Built can help your organization with both position control and position management.