How data and AI are reshaping contemporary HR practices
The world of human resources (HR) stands on the precipice of an exciting era fueled by data and AI. These technological forces are revolutionizing people management and creating intelligent processes that streamline operations and provide useful insights to human resources professionals.
The task of today’s HR teams is to find a balance. On the one hand, they can harness the power of data and AI to add value to the organization. On the other hand, they must keep the human touch at the center of all their processes, blending technology and people-centered approaches to offer an improved HR service to candidates and employees.
The rise of smart HR
Smart HR is the strategic application of data, analytics and artificial intelligence (AI) in human resources to improve decision-making, streamline operations and create a better work experience. This involves using technologies like machine learning, natural language processing, and predictive analytics to automate routine tasks, gain actionable insights, and predict trends.
Data-driven and AI-enabled HR improves the efficiency and accuracy of internal processes and also helps HR professionals create more personalized and engaging experiences for their organizations.
Top ways data and AI are reshaping HR
Understanding how data and AI are reshaping HR requires an appreciation of their myriad applications in the field of people management. From a potential candidate’s interaction with an organization to employees’ ongoing professional development, intelligent systems improve HR practices. Here are some of the most significant impacts of these technologies:
People Analysis
HR professionals can now analyze data to predict outcomes and suggest course corrections. Data provides strategic insights into workforce trends and drives better decision-making in organizations.
In 2008, an internal team of Google researchers launched Project Oxygen to determine what makes a great manager. From this research, they identified common behaviors among the top-performing managers in the study and incorporated them into Google’s management development programs. Using data in this way, the team significantly improved management at Google, including employee satisfaction, revenue, satisfaction, and overall performance.
Recruitment
HR teams use advanced algorithms to analyze resumes quickly and easily, highlighting top profiles and even predicting candidates’ potential success within the organization. When managed well, this type of automation speeds up the hiring process and minimizes bias.
HireVue, for example, is an on-demand video interview platform that screens candidates using AI, scores their video interviews, and then predicts their job performance and cultural fit. The algorithm evaluates hundreds of data points, including speech and facial expressions, so HR teams can quickly identify high-potential candidates. Technology like HireVue has the potential to minimize human bias in the initial selection process.
Integration
The onboarding experience has also been redesigned. AI-powered platforms can provide personalized orientations to new hires, reducing the workload on HR teams.
Companies like IBM are using AI-powered HR platforms like Watson to deliver personalized onboarding experiences. Watson can guide new hires through paperwork, answer questions, and help new employees integrate into the company culture.
Performance monitoring and management
Traditional annual reviews are being replaced by AI-backed continuous feedback systems so companies can create a more personalized approach to employee growth.
Betterworks is a continuous performance management platform that helps businesses create a more goal-driven, accountable, and aligned workforce. The tool supports functions such as goal setting, ongoing conversations between managers and employees, peer feedback, and organization-wide progress tracking.
Training and development
Companies can also create personalized training programs for their employees, including unique learning paths based on individual performance, interests and career aspirations.
Safety and well-being
Smart HR services can even make the workplace safer and improve employee well-being. Data and AI can be used to monitor behaviors and stress levels and create safer, more productive work environments that make employees happier and more engaged.
Thrive Global, founded by Arianna Huffington, leverages data and AI to provide personalized wellness recommendations and interventions to employees. With Thrive Global, businesses can encourage their employees to adopt healthier lifestyles and reduce their stress levels, which can lead to increased productivity and engagement at work.
Data-driven HR with a human touch
HR teams are now faced with enormous opportunities and challenges that go hand in hand with all this potential. Data and AI have the potential to redefine operations, and technology offers a wide range of opportunities for efficiency and improvement, but HR technology should not be implemented simply for its own sake.
The true value of data and AI in the world of HR lies in its strategic application to improve processes while keeping people at the forefront. Data-driven and AI-enabled HR can add tremendous value to your organization, but we can’t forget the “human” in HR. Technology should amplify HR’s work, not eclipse it.
You can read more about the topic in my new Data-Driven HR: How to Use AI, Analytics, and Data to Improve Performance. And don’t forget to subscribe my newsletter and follow me X (Twitter), LinkedInAnd Youtube to learn more about future trends in business and technology.