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• Stone, T. H. and F. L. Smith (1996). "A contingency theory of human resource management devolution." Revue Canadienne des Sciences de l'Administration 13(1): 1.

Historically, the structuring of human resource management suggests that it has evolved from a market-based structure to more centralized control in a bureaucratic-based structure. Recently the function has devolved from the bureaucratic-based structure to multiple forms of market-based structures as well as clan-type structures such as self-directed work teams. This evolution/devolution process is explained using constructs from market failures theory and organizational economics. Propositions from the proposed contingency theory of devolution can guide future research, and explanations will help human resource managers deliver their services through the most effective structure.