by comparing forecasts for labor supply and demand for specific jobs, hr planners can determine whether there will be a labor surplus or a labor shortage for certain categories. the second step in human resource planning is to define specific goals regarding a desired outcome and provide benchmarks for determining the relative success of a program aimed at addressing labor surpluses or shortages. there are a number of strategies for addressing the issue of a labor surplus that vary according to expense, speed, effectiveness, and the amount of human suffering.