Each year, this IRS survey investigates the size, shape, structure and operation of the HR function in a wide range of private and public sector organisations. The aim is to establish a series of benchmarks that enable HR departments to examine the way they work.

The latest survey covers a wide range of key topics, including the following: HR roles and responsibilities; changes in staffing levels; qualifications required for HR practitioners; HR budgets and strategies; measuring HR effectiveness; and the influence of the function across the wider organisation.

Key findings of the 2009 HR roles and responsibilities survey (subscription required) - which were published at the start of this year - include the following:

• The typical ratio of HR practitioners to employees stands at 1:87, according to our latest survey of the HR function in 111 organisations.
• Around two-thirds of organisations report the presence of HR at director level, but not invariably on the main board.
• A typical HR practitioner can expect to spend around 15% of their time on strategic work, 40% on the provision of consultancy services and 30% tied up with paperwork and administration (with 15% devoted to a range of other tasks).

The findings of our latest survey will be published in early 2010, and will show how HR roles and responsibilities have changed over the past year. Everyone taking part in the survey will receive a free copy as soon as it is finalised.

• Take part in the IRS HR roles and responsibilities survey.