Emerging Developments in Human Resource Technology

Human resource technology continues to be impacted by the shift from in-office to remote work during the pandemic.

FREMONT, CA: Human resource (HR) technology trends continue to be influenced by the move to remote work during the pandemic and the requirement to support critical personnel.

Amid an ongoing pandemic, HR technology remains an indispensable resource for HR directors. When the necessary digital communication channels are in place, the capacity to convey information to a distant workforce is facilitated. Small businesses may also realize that now is the time to capitalize on HR technology trends and upgrade their systems to remain compliant with employee-related laws and regulations, effectively track time, process payroll, and store employee information. For larger corporate structures, human resource technology innovations enable HR directors to become even more invested in their organization's strategic goals.

What Is HR Technology?

This broad word can comprise support for various complicated business operations, including payroll, time and attendance, benefits, and talent acquisition, provided by software and other human resources technology. From a new generation of employee self-service to tools for continuing education, technology in HR management enables professionals to play a more strategic role inside the firm.

A range of HR technologies currently assist HR professionals in managing their greatest issues, and other technologies are anticipated to emerge in the near future.

Wide Distribution of Employee Self-Service Tools

Employees are more interested in accessing and managing their personal information. With an employee self-service (ESS) system, employees can complete a variety of HR-related functions without submitting papers to HR.

Self-service technology may also enable management to communicate alterations to health plan coverage, corporate vacations, and other time-sensitive information. Through the use of an online learning management system, it can also be effective for supporting employees who wish to broaden their skill set.

The rise of self-service technology can be partially linked to changing workforce demographics. According to the Paychex, The Future of Work survey, millennial and Generation Z employees want more self-service solutions for HR functions. An ESS system can offer HR data more quickly and efficiently, and this HR technology can increase employee engagement, benefiting the entire firm.

Focus on Wellness, Safety, and Employee Support

Wellness, safety, and support for employees are predicted to remain a prominent HR trend until 2022. Safe and healthy working conditions are essential for maintaining a strong workforce, especially when labor shortages and staffing problems exist. Widespread programs addressing employee health and work-life balance are gaining steam to fulfill the physical and psychological demands of an increasing number of remote workers (and those who serve the company on a flexible work schedule).

The stress of changing work and home habits may also necessitate additional mental health support. Companies may wish to contribute a portion of their benefits budget to an employee assistance program (EAP). When implemented, supervisors throughout the organization can refer employees to this valuable perk.

Skype, Zoom, and Microsoft Teams have proven to be incredibly efficient tools for sharing webinars centered on wellness and updated safety rules. Social media feeds can also inform remote employees about new wellness initiatives and associated efforts. This effectively encourages and motivates remote employees to participate in team challenges, leaderboards, and other social opportunities.

Growth of HR Capabilities

Recruiting new employees, tracking employee time, and disseminating communications can benefit using technology, but certain HR functions will always require qualified people. HR personnel may prioritize salary negotiations, dispute resolution, and strategy formulation, while increasing HR technology can automate a significant portion of the work associated with new-hire training, time monitoring, and benefits administration. Technology can help bridge potential labor gaps and provide HR professionals more time to focus on strategic activities, as HR teams are increasingly required to do additional duties.

Adapting to Hybrid Workplaces

The pandemic prompted many businesses' urgent shift to remote employment, revealing technology service gaps where additional expenditure was frequently required. Previously, job interviews and much of the hiring process may have occurred in an office setting. When this was impossible owing to lockdowns or travel limitations, several businesses adopted technology to conduct interviews virtually.

With an investment in technology to facilitate remote operations, businesses may harness hybrid capabilities to provide their employees with greater freedom.

The HR functions of new-hire training and onboarding may now occur in hybrid contexts, with some employees entering on-site and some joining remotely. Additionally, organizations can utilize technology to connect with remote personnel more efficiently, allowing for the expansion of hybrid scheduling options. By embracing the hybrid work model through technology, HR professionals can remain competitive in the current job market.