How do you apply the human resources management to your organization effectively?

While I am no expert, I do feel there are a number of variables to consider when attempting to apply HR effectively within an organization. Unfortunately it involves asking a question with a question. The following is just my humble opinion. First, I believe senior leadership must be 100% committed to the mission of the HR short-term and long-term goals and objectives, which of course should be in strict alignment with the overall goals and objective of the organization. Second, While the following may not be the best practice for all organizations, I feel it does have it's benefits. I feel HR systems of management work best when the director of HR reports directly to the CEO, and not the CFO, where the HR director has a seat at the table and is a peer of the CFO. Still it depends on the personalities involved. Third, HR management - I feel - works best when the organization brings in HR as a strategic partner an integral part of the organization and not just some side component that answers employee's questions about, "where's my check, what about my health benefits, are we in compliance with Federal, State, and local mandates etc.?" Fourth, I believe the Director of HR must be one who gets down within the organization at all levels, to find out the needs, wants, and desires of those who make up the organization; This through open, honest, and direct communication with employees to include front-line personnel and their managers. So, the question is, "are the above a part of the current organization?" Well we can turn this into a life time study, but the above can get us started.