Suppose you tell the modern HR professional that their role will now involve manually processing paperwork, conducting in-person orientation sessions, or physically relaying general information. In that case, they’d probably dismiss the idea. The HR digital transformation has removed the shackles of laborious and redundant tasks and given way to more streamlined and data-driven processes. This article is going to explain the concept of digital HR and how employees and HR professionals are benefiting from it.
The Digital Shift in HR
Unveiling HR's Digital Transformation
While the COVID-19 pandemic may have accelerated HR digital maturity by a couple of years, the journey toward a digitally transformed human resource landscape began way before this. Leading organizations initiated the transition to a digital HR approach as early as the early 2000s. They aimed to leverage technology to improve efficiency, effectiveness, and overall employee experience.
So, what do we mean by HR digital transformation? It simply entails the shift from paper-based processes in HR operations to the integration of digital technologies and data-driven solutions. Its ultimate goal is to create a more employee-centric HR function that contributes to the overall success of the organization.
Defining HR Digital Transformation
Core Components and Objectives
The core components and objectives of the HR digital transformation include:
- Integration of digital tools and platforms to streamline HR processes and enhance efficiency.
- Utilization of systems like HRIS to centralize and optimize HR-related data, enabling easier access and analysis.
- Implementation of automation, including robotic process automation (RPA), to
eliminate manual and repetitive tasks.
- The adoption of digital tools for recruitment, such as applicant tracking systems and AI-driven solutions, to enhance the hiring process.
- The use of employee self-service portals allows employees to manage their HR-related tasks.
Integration of Tech in HR Practices
Technology integration in HR operations has made processes more efficient, data-driven, and streamlined. Take a look at some integration strategies:
- Recruitment and Applicant Tracking Systems (ATS): ATS software automates the recruitment process by managing the entire hiring lifecycle, from posting job openings to selecting candidates. These systems streamline the application process, screen resumes, and manage communication with applicants.
- Employee Onboarding: HR technology facilitates onboarding by providing digital platforms for document submission, e-signatures, and online training modules.
- Learning Management Systems (LMS): Organizations can conduct training sessions and develop programs on LMS platforms. Employees can then access training materials at their convenience, track their progress, and help HR professionals monitor the effectiveness of training initiatives.
- Employee Self-Service Portals: Many organizations offer employees self-service portals where they can access information related to payroll, benefits, and other HR-related matters. This in turn reduces the administrative burden on HR departments.
Advantages of HR Digital Transformation
Streamlining HR Processes
Technology streamlines HR operations by automating routine tasks, such as recruitment and onboarding processes. This efficiency saves time and allows HR professionals to focus on strategic talent management, therefore reducing administrative burdens and enhancing overall operational efficiency within organizations.
Elevating Employee Experiences
When organizations provide employees with easy access to information related to benefits, payroll, and training, it elevates their overall experience. The implementation of advanced technologies such as chatbots and virtual assistants enhances communication and support, ensuring that employees receive prompt responses to their queries.
Data-Driven HR Decision-Making
HR analytics tools collect and analyze data on various aspects of the workforce, including performance, engagement, and retention. HR professionals can then make strategic decisions related to talent acquisition, training programs, and succession planning based on these insights.
Navigating the Digital Path in HR
Assessing the Current HR Landscape Digitally
Digital HR today is gravitating towards AI-powered solutions for task automation to enhance the hiring process. Cloud-based HR technology on the other hand facilitates remote HR processes, responding to the rise of remote work. In addition to this, mobile-friendly applications are being employed to cater to the mobile-centric workforce by providing flexibility in the application process.
Strategizing and Tech Selection
Strategizing in HR digital transformation means aligning HR objectives with the overall organization goals, understanding workforce needs, and anticipating future trends. This approach enables the selection of technologies that address immediate challenges and contribute to long-term digital resilience. The process involves evaluating the scalability, compatibility, and user-friendliness of the technologies to integrate into the existing HR ecosystem within the organization.
Implementation and Continuous Enhancement
After strategizing and technology selection, the implementation stage helps realize digital HR's benefits. This process involves integrating the selected solutions, configuring systems, and training staff for seamless integration into daily operations. Regular assessments, feedback loops, and updates are necessary for improving the efficiency of the chosen technologies.
The HR Digital Toolbox
AI and Machine Learning in HR
We mentioned AI as a dominating factor in the current digital HR landscape and will be in the years to come. Unilever, for instance, wanted to adjust its hiring strategy to focus on potential rather than experience. To do this, they used ‘HireVue Assessments’ as their AI solution which filtered out up to 80% of the applicants. The AI used facial expressions, body language, and keyword analysis to sift through a massive candidate pool of 250, 000 college graduates. The use of AI saved Unilever substantial time and reduced complexity in the whole process.
Automation for Efficiency
Automation tools, such as Content Management Systems (CMS) streamline content creation, dissemination, and management, reducing manual effort. Zenefits, for instance, is a Software-as-a-service company that has streamlined HR operations of over 12, 000 businesses. It offers a comprehensive Cloud-based Human Resource Information Management platform by automating payroll, health insurance, benefits, compliance, and other processes.
Employee Engagement with Digital Signage
Employees find it easier to remain focused and aligned with organizational goals when there's an effective channel of communication. Transparency brings about clarity and enables employees to work towards a common goal. Corporate digital signage plays a key role in keeping employees informed and motivated. Around 21% of employees admitted to increased productivity and better engagement due to well-functioning internal digital signage. Digital signs boost employee engagement by showcasing achievements, milestones, and appreciation messages, while simultaneously keeping them informed about important information and updates.
Conclusion
The State of Digital HR report indicates that HR digital transformation needs to continually advance with technology due to its fundamental impact on business success. It’s a major contributor to employee satisfaction, increased productivity, and the smooth operation of business.
Digital signage is one of the most effective technologies in the HR digital transformation, owing to its ability to streamline communication. Look Digital Signage CMS is just the right tool to ensure the content creation and display process on your signage system is smooth and effective. Go ahead and try the 14-day trial today - it’s free!
