How has technology impacted human resource management?

Explore the vital role of technology in Human Resource Management (HRM) in this informative blog post.

Human resource management plays a vital role within organisations. Whether it’s human resource management, entailing tasks such as development of the organisation’s people, culture and legal compliance, or strategic HRM, in which the synchronisation between human resource strategy and overarching business strategy takes place, the role of HRM is crucial.  
 
This blog post explains everything you need to know about technology usage in HRM, including human resource management systems, and what is predicted for the future of technology in this sector. 

Technology’s impact on human resource management

As with most occupations in the modern world, technology plays a significant role in HRM. From digital recruitment to online learning and employee development, here are some of the most common ways technology impacts human resource management: 

Human resource management systems

The majority of HRM teams use human resource management systems, which are software applications that assist them in managing HR functions efficiently.

A human resource management system streamlines HR processes, enhances data accuracy and can improve employee engagement, ultimately contributing to a more efficient and successful company.

Digital recruitment

Technological advances have streamlined the recruitment process from start to finish in recent years. From initial CV screening and filtering to applicant tracking systems for candidates’ data, to video interviews and automated responses, technology makes the recruitment process much more efficient.

Some companies are even using artificial intelligence (AI) for candidate sourcing; for example, AI-powered tools can search and identify potential candidates based on specific skills and criteria set by Human Resource Managers.

Cloud-based HR solutions

Cloud-based HR solutions, also known as HRMS (Human Resource Management Systems), are another way in which technology is embraced within human resource management.

These HRMSs allow human resource teams to oversee diverse facets of their organisations, including operations and procedures. Unlike conventional software that requires installation and maintenance often on local servers, cloud-based HR solutions can be hosted anywhere and are accessible via the internet.

Online learning and training platforms

Online learning helps to develop the knowledge and skillset of workforces across the globe.

Online learning and digital resources are especially important in a world where teams are often remote or even in different time zones, as it means employees can train in their own time and to suit their individual personal circumstances.

Human resource management teams find training platforms particularly helpful as they allow progress to be tracked more easily. 

Future trends in HR technology

As technology continues to evolve, Human Resource Managers are predicted to embrace its capabilities in many ways.

Some of the most likely future trends in HR technology include: 

Virtual collaboration and tools for remote workers

As remote work becomes more common, it is likely that technology will focus on improving the experience for teams who don’t collaborate face-to-face on a daily basis.

For example, streamlining remote onboarding processes, and smoother project management software and virtual collaboration tools to promote effective teamwork, are both likely to develop rapidly.  

Increased data-driven decision-making

Although already utilised by many companies, software and tools which analyse employees’ and prospective employees’ data will play a significant role in the future of HR decision making.

This will be utilised across many aspects of the role, helping Human Resource Mangers make informed decisions about recruitment, employee sentiment and engagement, talent development and even future workforce planning. 

Chatbots and virtual assistants

 Without the need for constant human monitoring, chatbots and AI-driven virtual assistants are likely to become more and more equipped to deal with employees’ needs.

By providing instant assistance for HR inquiries and helping streamline tasks that were once time-intensive, chatbots and AI will significantly simplify employees' experiences. 

Human resource management courses 

If you’d like to learn more about human resource management and the benefits the role brings to organisations, you should consider UCLan's MSc in Human Resource Management.  
 
This two-year course is part-time and fully online, meaning you can fit your human resource management training around your other commitments to strike the perfect work-life balance: