Human resource planning is the process by which an organization ensures it has the right number and type of people with the right skills at the right locations and times to achieve its objectives. The process involves forecasting future human resource needs, determining current availability, and identifying gaps to develop action plans. An effective human resource planning process is important as it provides a base for developing talent, defines future personnel needs, ensures effective utilization of human resources, involves top management in human resource management, and identifies gaps between current and future needs.