This document provides an overview of human resource development (HRD). It defines HRD as activities designed by an organization to provide members with necessary skills. HRD emerged to address employee development beyond training. HRD is a function of human resource management (HRM) that focuses on training, organizational development, and career development. Effective HRD requires needs assessment, design, implementation, and evaluation. Key challenges for HRD include a changing workforce, global competition, skills gaps, and the need for lifelong and organizational learning.