The first step to a successful implementation is to conduct a thorough and documented evaluation of your SME and its workforce to obtain an overall picture.
An analysis of your organizational set-up will allow you to identify your company’s priority HR needs and, therefore, better plan the set-up of your new department.
Also, consider letting your current employees have their say on the subject. They will be able to shed light on specific issues and bring a different viewpoint. Moreover, including your employees in the process is a general principle for effectively managing organizational change.