Human resource planning involves analyzing an organization's human resource needs and developing plans to satisfy those needs. It ensures the right number and types of employees are available at the right times to carry out organizational strategies. The process includes forecasting future demand and supply of labor, identifying potential surpluses or shortages, and developing programs to address needs through actions like training, recruiting, or downsizing. The goal is to have the right skills and number of employees to achieve organizational objectives and gain a competitive advantage.