From streamlining complex HR processes and integrating data and insights for better decision-making HR automation tools have enabled HR professionals to better perform in an increasingly intricate world.
Connect HR, part of the Connect Group, a supplier of technology for the professional industry, is noticing a growing trend towards automation in HR departments.
Economy Middle East probed Aaron Portero, Managing Director of Connect Group, looking at his expertise in HR technology to provide answers on what is driving the increase in demand for HR automation and what key benefits this adds to organizations.
What do you believe is driving the increase in demand for HR automation?
Firstly, the digitalization of HR processes has become a necessity due to the COVID-19 pandemic. Many organizations were forced to shift to remote work, and HR automation has become a critical tool for managing a remote workforce. Automating HR processes has made it easier for organizations to manage HR tasks from afar, without compromising the accuracy or efficiency of the process.
Secondly, HR automation has become increasingly popular due to its ability to provide HR professionals with real-time data and analytics. This allows them to make more informed decisions and identify areas for improvement in a timely manner. By automating repetitive HR tasks, HR professionals have more time to focus on strategic initiatives and drive value for their organizations.
Thirdly, it has the potential to improve the employee experience by providing them with self-service tools to manage their own HR-related tasks. This can lead to a more positive employee experience, and ultimately contribute to better employee retention rates.
Finally, as organizations grow, their HR processes become increasingly complex. HR automation helps to simplify these processes, making them more manageable and efficient.
Read: UAE launches program to empower best talents and leaders
What are some of the key benefits that HR automation can bring to organizations?
HR automation can bring several key benefits to organizations, including:
1-Increased efficiency: HR automation can streamline many time-consuming HR tasks, freeing up HR professionals to focus on more strategic initiatives. This can lead to increased efficiency and productivity.
2- Cost savings: By automating repetitive tasks, organizations can reduce their administrative costs and potentially eliminate oversights that can result in costly legal issues.
3- Improved accuracy: Performing manual HR tasks like data entry or benefits enrolment may lead to errors, which can be reduced by using automated systems.
4- Advanced compliance: To ensure compliance with employment regulations, organizations can leverage HR automation to accurately track employee work hours, maintain precise records, and perform other related tasks.
5- Enhanced employee experience: It can provide employees with self-service tools to manage their own HR-related tasks such as leave requests and benefits enrolment. This can lead to a more positive employee experience.
6- Real-time data and analytics: With HR automation, HR professionals can access real-time data and analytics, enabling them to make better-informed decisions and identify potential areas for improvement.
How has Connect Group responded to this trend, and what kind of solutions are you providing to clients?
We recognize the increasing demand for HR automation and have responded to this trend by developing a range of innovative solutions that help organizations automate their HR processes.
These solutions are designed to help organizations streamline HR processes, increase efficiency, and improve compliance and include HR, payroll and performance management software, and employee self-service for HR-related tasks, such as benefits enrolment, leave requests, and time tracking.
What are some of the potential risks or downsides to HR automation, and how can organizations mitigate them?
HR automation has many benefits for organizations, but it’s important to be aware of potential risks and downsides as well. One of the main risks is security, as sensitive employee data can be vulnerable to cyber-attacks or data breaches. To mitigate this risk, organizations should use secure HR automation solutions that comply with relevant data protection regulations.
Another potential downside of HR automation is employee resistance to change. It’s important for organizations to communicate the benefits of HR automation to their employees and provide adequate training to ensure a smooth transition. Integration challenges can also be a concern, as HR automation solutions need to integrate with existing HR systems. Organizations should carefully evaluate their existing systems and choose an HR automation solution that can effectively integrate with them.
Finally, HR automation can sometimes be perceived as impersonal, which can negatively impact employee engagement and satisfaction. To mitigate this risk, organizations should ensure that they maintain a human touch in their HR processes, such as through personalized communications or support. Overall, by being aware of these potential risks and downsides and taking steps to mitigate them, organizations can effectively implement HR automation and reap its many benefits.
Looking ahead, what do you see as the future of HR automation?
The future of HR automation looks very promising. As organizations continue to face increasing pressure to streamline their HR processes, the demand for HR automation solutions is only going to grow. We expect to see continued innovation in this space, with new technologies and solutions that can further enhance HR automation.
For more on technology and innovation, click here.
