Data Analytics in HR

Overview

Data Analytics in HR is a relatively new tool. Pretty unexplored, the definition given by Heuvel & Bondarouk is widely used as a scientific one. HR analytics, according to them, is the systematic identification and quantification of the people drivers of business outcomes. (Heuvel & Bondarouk, 2016).

According to a 2021 People Analytics Trends report, almost 90% of CHROs concluded that data and analytics are essential. Many leading companies are investing more in people analytics, with a 61% growth from the previous year.

Significance Of Data Analytics in HR

Human Resource Management, or HR, is considered soft and old-fashioned. For example, many say HR decisions are based on ‘gut feeling,’ or they follow things that have been in practice. Since HR is not a revenue-bringing department, they often don’t have numbers to substantiate their side. However, in the past decade, HR has changed radically. From an operational discipline, it has moved to a strategic one. The data-driven approach that exemplifies Data Analytics in HR aligns with this change.

The first and foremost benefit is that by using data analytics, HRs no longer have to count on gut feeling. They can now make data-driven decisions. Also, it helps to test the effectiveness of HR policies.

Data-based decision-making has great significance in the post-pandemic world. The employment scenario has been witnessing a paradigm shift – whether it is the increasing interest in hybrid work or the use of automation. There is disruption and uncertainty, making it essential for HR to come up with appropriate decisions to navigate the new normal.

Employee Retention

The great resignation has been a wake-up call for employees and employers. Employees realized they want their employers to address their concerns more than a paycheck.

They wanted better work-life balance, benefits, flexibility, and better opportunities for career development. Many employees understand that better options suit them, and they need not necessarily have to be contented with the existing one.

Today, the average tenure for employees has plunged to below three years. So, for HRs, it is pretty stressful to retain talent than ever. This has significantly increased the HR department’s workload. They have to invest more time in hiring and training.

However, Data Analytics in HR can offer insights into why employees leave an organization. By collecting data from stay and exit interviews and surveys, HRs can utilize the understanding to address the issues. Rightly said, it also helps to develop a company culture that fulfills employee requirements.

Employee Experience

HRs must create a positive experience and nurture employee relations. This will help to keep employees engaged and productive. However, identifying and addressing the gaps in employee experience is a challenging task. Finally, by collecting the data from surveys, employee listening, and actively responding to their concerns, HRs can sail through the otherwise stormy area successfully.

Manage Remote Staff

Remote and hybrid work have created several issues. And they include  communication, team collaboration, and employee engagement. HRs can use data analytics to understand remote employees’ productivity, engagement, and well-being. Data from polls and pulse surveys offer insights to HR into what works for remote staff and areas that need attention.

Upskilling For Staff

We know that this is the  world of automation and AI. It means, many jobs are fast becoming obsolete. However, there are several new avenues opening up. Data analytics can help to build critical skills for employees. First of all, using data analytics, HRs can develop informed workforce planning to address current and future needs. Skills and jobs can be assessed and coordinated through data, and systems can be implemented to train individuals with specific talents. So, this increases the company’s productivity and also keeps employees more engaged.

Diversity And Inclusion

Across the world, we know that organizations are trying to improve inclusion and diversity.  For example, factors like lack of awareness have been creating difficulties in attracting top talents. However, data analytics can promote innovation and a competitive edge over the competition. To sum up, it offers HRs the opportunity to showcase data to the stakeholders why a diversity program works and what needs to be done further.

Conclusion

First of all, HR professionals often collect vast amounts of data. Secondly, it mostly remains unused. Once you analyze human resource challenges using the data, you engage in Data Analytics in HR.

Now we know that Data Analytics in HR enables HR to make informed decisions and move from an operational domain to a tactical and strategic partner role. To sum up, from recruitment, performance management, employee engagement, learning, and development, Data Analytics in HR can resolve most workplace challenges.