Human Capital as a Driver of Business Performance: The Netflix Approach, by Jonathan H. Westover PhD

Abstract: This article examines how leading organizations are reimagining the human resources (HR) function as a strategic driver of business performance rather than a traditional support function. Using Netflix as a primary case study, the analysis explores how the company's HR team has grown 47% faster than the rest of the organization since 2012, demonstrating a fundamental shift in HR's organizational positioning. The research synthesizes evidence on the organizational and performance benefits of investing proactively in HR capabilities, especially in knowledge-intensive and innovation-driven environments. The article presents evidence-based approaches to HR transformation, including strategic workforce planning, performance-oriented talent systems, and data-driven people analytics. Practical implications focus on how organizations can reposition HR functions to create competitive advantage through human capital optimization in rapidly changing business environments.