The future of HR: Embracing technology and AI

There is no escaping the fact that the technological landscape is changing industries across the board, and Human Resources is no exception.

Emerging technologies and AI are revolutionising the way organisations are able to manage their workforce and maximise their HR department’s efficiency.

The role of AI in HR

AI, or artificial intelligence, has made its way into mainstream society. Face ID systems on smartphones as well as voice-activated assistants such as Siri and Alexa are both commonplace in our everyday lives.

AI gives an organisation the ability to analyse large data sets. This can be in the form of identifying the top applicants for a job opening and eliminating biases that can occur subconsciously in the candidate selection process.

AI can also be beneficial when looking at employee performance, engagement and job satisfaction. This can lead to improved talent management strategies which will benefit the company as a whole as employees will be happier and feel more fulfilled in their roles.

Automation in HR functions

Human Resources can be full of time-consuming and repetitive tasks such as payroll processing, leave management and benefits administration. These tasks can be automated using a progressive human resource management system.

By automating the lengthier tasks, you are able to utilise your HR department’s talent in other areas which will help to improve efficiency and allow them to focus on different priorities. With automation, there is also a reduction in mistakes caused by human error, such as payroll issues, mistakes in leave dates or employee filing.

Automation software is built with labour law compliance in mind, so you can have the confidence that you are following the law properly should you ever be inspected or audited.

Enhancing employee experience

By automating routine tasks such as booking leave or viewing payslips, your employees will be able to access their information easily which will free up their time from waiting for managers to help them. This will help employees to feel involved as well as self-sufficient.

Automation also gives organisations the option for remote or hybrid working. Again, this can improve the employee experience within your HR department as they can have more freedom and implied trust that they will be as productive at home as they are in the office.

Data privacy and ethical considerations

Data protection and employee privacy are always considerations in every aspect of an HR department. As automation software is built with legalities in mind, they are designed to protect employee and business data properly.

This helps to protect organisations from data breaches and confidential information leaking out. By following the GDPR laws, you are ensuring that there will be little to no legal recourse for the risk of data privacy being breached.