The Evolution of HR: Embracing Technology and Data-Driven Practices
Vivek Balokhra (He/Him/His)
Talent Expert | HR tech | People Analytics | Employee Experience Champion | Change Management | Opinions Are My Own
The Evolution of HR: Embracing Technology and Data-Driven Practices
In the past.... HR leaders had to rely (solely) on manual processes like spreadsheets, handwritten records, and data entry before HR technology became available.?
These methods required significant effort as they involved manually collecting workforce data through surveys or interviews with employees.?
Afterwards, the data had to be entered manually into spreadsheets and other reporting formats.
To answer questions like?
“Is this candidate a perfect fit?” or?
“Why have employees been leaving after their first work anniversary?” or even?
“Why has the quality of applicants declined in a particular department?”,?
HR professionals now utilise data and analytics to understand, analyse, and address such challenges.
Unfortunately, the analysis of this data was also performed manually.?
This involved sifting through large volumes of data and manually identifying patterns, trends, and insights.?
As one can imagine, this process was time-consuming... prone to errors..., and limited the amount of data that could be effectively analysed.?
Regrettably... many HR teams still operate in this manner, which is neither enjoyable nor efficient.
What is HR technology?
The global HR Software market size was valued at $22.734 billion in 2022 and is expected to grow at a CAGR of 10.9%, reaching $42.287 billion by 2028.
HR technology plays a crucial role in the success of organisations and is considered a vital solution for businesses.?
That’s why research conducted by SRHM has shown that organisations utilising HR software outperform those that do not.
HR tech solutions encompass a wide range of software, digital platforms, tools, and cloud-based technologies.?
These solutions securely store data, automate routine HR processes, and offer analytical tools to enable more informed and strategic decision-making.
By embracing HR technology, organisations can enhance efficiency, streamline processes, and gain valuable insights from data analysis.?
These technologies enable HR professionals to focus on more strategic initiatives, improve employee experiences, and drive overall organisational success.
Let’s look at specific HR technology/software/systems needed in 2023
Employer Brand Platforms:?
In 2023, employer brand platforms have become essential HR technology tools for organisations.?
These platforms provide a centralised hub for showcasing and promoting the employer brand to attract and retain top talent.?
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They typically offer features such as career websites, employee testimonials, company culture videos, and job board integrations.?
By effectively presenting their employer brand, organisations can attract candidates who align with their values and culture.
Applicant Tracking Systems (ATS):?
ATS is a critical HR technology in 2023, designed to streamline and automate the recruitment process.?
These systems allow HR teams to manage job postings, track applicant data, screen resumes, schedule interviews, and collaborate with hiring managers.?
ATS software often includes features like resume parsing, candidate ranking, interview scheduling, and communication tools.?
By using an ATS, HR professionals can improve the efficiency and effectiveness of their hiring process.
Employee Engagement Systems:?
Employee engagement systems have gained significant importance in 2023 as organisations recognise the value of fostering a highly engaged workforce.?
These systems provide tools and features to measure and enhance employee engagement levels.?
They may include employee surveys, feedback mechanisms, recognition programs, pulse surveys, and social collaboration platforms.?
By leveraging employee engagement systems, organisations can gather insights, identify areas for improvement, and implement strategies to boost employee satisfaction and productivity.
Learning Management Systems (LMS):?
Learning management systems have become indispensable for organisations investing in employee development and upskilling since the pandemic.?
LMS platforms offer a centralised hub for delivering and managing training and learning initiatives.?
They provide features such as course creation, content management, certification tracking, assessments, and reporting.?
LMS platforms enable HR professionals to efficiently deliver training programs, track progress, and ensure employees have access to continuous learning opportunities.
Objectives & Key Results (OKR) Systems:?
OKR systems have gained prominence as organisations strive for alignment and goal attainment.?
OKR systems typically include features such as goal setting, progress tracking, alignment visualisation, and reporting dashboards.?
By utilising OKR systems, organisations can improve goal clarity, enhance collaboration, and drive overall performance and results.
Final remarks
As technology continues (and will continue) to shape the future of work, it is crucial for HR professionals to embrace upskilling as a means to leverage technology effectively while maintaining a human-centred approach.?
By expanding their technological skill set, HR professionals can tap into the vast potential of HR technology tools and platforms, streamlining processes, enhancing decision-making, and driving organisational success.