HR transformation is much talked about during this pandemic. The pandemic has drastically brought changes in the work culture where almost all companies are adopting for the remote and inclusive workforce for business continuity while maintaining social distancing rules.
Global HR leaders who are already in the path of bringing technology to their HR functionalities were forced to accelerate the process. The core HR functionalities like recruitment, management of existing employees, development of employees, management of workforce strategy, management of employee rewards and benefits, are becoming tech-oriented with the use of Artificial Intelligence, data analytics, and blockchain.
However, the adoption of HR tech trends varies for each organization as it is dependent on the business area, investment levels, and current talent issues. This has led to different levels of HR tech maturity model and organizations find themselves at varying stages of tech implementation. Also, they face issues while making a complete shift in HR tech adoption.
The application of HR tech across transactional work involves screening of people, hiring, managing payroll, and administrate benefits. It is essential to address these transactional HR problems on a priority basis. The other aspects of HR functionalities include adding value to employee lifecycle and employee experience that calls for a holistic approach.
Let us understand how to adopt HR technology effectively here.
Boosting HR technology adoption rates
The initial stages of adoption including the best HR tech trends need a period of experimentation. As they get on with the structural issues, they need to follow a holistic approach and increase the use of software programs like AI in HR, analytics, and automation. With a well-defined architecture, HR functionalities can extend toward the best practice of talent management.
Identify areas of improvement
Automation for all processes may not translate well. It is essential to document the HR steps, see how a proposed process will improve the situations. Employees can be asked to run through it on a test basis and asked for prompt feedback. Depending on the feedback, you can smooth out the processes further. This exercise will help to gain efficiencies in the process.
Start with simple steps
As you identify the areas of improvement, it is better to implement easy tasks like administrative tasks that may include basic data changes and payroll management. As employees get accustomed to new changes and realize the benefits, you may extend the technology to expanded functionality.
Provide adequate training
Determine access by considering the workforce perspective and security related issues. A basic survey will be fine.
Brennan says that HR professionals must think beyond an e-mail that announces the implementation of new technology. They should detail the technology benefits and how it will make their lives easier. It is recommended to provide an on-site demonstration, written instructions, and live training as the best practice for successful implementation.
This is how best HR leaders can encourage tech adoption across the organization. HR leaders can involve employees to understand their challenges, bring intuitive and user-friendly solutions, sell the technology benefits, motivate team members, and share success stories. Understand your workforce to maximize technology benefits.
To summarize…
Technology enablement needs a change in mindset. It is essential to overcome the mindset and perception barriers which calls for continuous efforts and commitment. CHROs and HR leaders must encourage and inspire the employees along with information sharing. Build trust in the newly adopted ways of working, monitor the impact of the change at regular intervals. Moreover, it is crucial to assess the employee response and be alert for any early warning signs for going downhill.
This requires investment from the HR team in terms of time, effort, finance, and readiness to adopt new technology development across the organization successfully.
