How HCM Builds Resilience & Future-Ready Workforce

HCM platforms offer internal growth opportunities, utilising skill gap analyses and tailored learning journeys to pinpoint development areas

Organisations must cultivate a culture of resilience to successfully withstand today’s complex economic landscape. Integrating a solid human capital management (HCM) system equips businesses, particularly those in the IT industry, to develop a strong workforce. While HCMs may appear to be a tactical resource, companies can strategically utilise them to maintain a competitive edge.

Talent acquisition, development and engagement are key contributors to a business's long-term success. For these functions to progress, human resource departments need to be in sync with the organisation's overarching goals. HCM strategies ensure this consistent alignment. Evidence also shows that the benefits of HCM strategies extend beyond regular operations, including in a crisis. For example, this study by McKinsey shows that organisations that employed a people-focused approach were more prepared during the global COVID pandemic and reported a lesser impact on their revenue. 

So, what can HCM do for organisations and HR in particular?

Streamline HR Processes and Enhance Data-Driven Decision Making

With the integration of HCM systems, HR teams are no longer confined to rudimentary spreadsheets for tracking and analysing important data. A centralised HCM platform provides a more efficient, accurate and secure alternative that consolidates tasks into one location, relieving HR professionals of administrative burdens. 

Centralised employee data facilitates data-driven decision-making, minimises bias, uncovers valuable insights and boosts productivity. HCM tools also reduce the total cost of ownership over time by streamlining processes and reducing errors. 

Craft improved learning and development programmes 

While HCM platforms are frequently seen as merely administrative tools, they actually provide a robust suite of learning and development initiatives. These initiatives enable the evaluation of employee skills to dovetail with the long-term goals of a business. On a tactical level, they pinpoint skill deficiencies within specific teams, offering insights for bespoke training programmes to cultivate a workforce prepared for the future. By harnessing artificial intelligence (AI) and machine learning (ML) algorithms, these platforms scrutinise various data points and facilitate personalised plans that inspire employees by harmonising their objectives, interests, and current skills.

Create a positive employee experience

HCM solutions enhance the employee experience by consolidating useful resources and information, such as tenure letters, internal job postings, learning and development programmes and employee relations reporting, on a single platform. This approach provides time-saving and other benefits, including:

Enhanced self-service: A unified platform facilitates employees' access to relevant information and educates them on available organisational resources, including training programs and internal career pathways.

Comprehensive performance management feedback: By integrating performance tracking tools, employees gain access to continuous feedback loops for performance evaluations, recognitions, and opportunities for improvement.

Improved communication: Internal communication teams can leverage HCM platforms for company-wide announcements, team collaboration tools, employee surveys, and shareable posts, fostering employee advocacy.

These elements cultivate a mindset focused on long-term investment, fostering employees' commitment and loyalty to the organisation over an extended period.

Improve employee retention

Employee retention remains a significant hurdle for organisations across various sectors. HCM platforms offer internal growth opportunities, utilising skill gap analyses and tailored learning journeys to pinpoint development areas. These defined pathways for progression help combat employee stagnation and show employees their contributions are valued, thus boosting retention.

The benefits of HCM extend beyond data-driven insights and streamlined processes. They empower teams to achieve their goals and drive long-term business success. By adopting an HCM strategy, organisations can empower their teams to confront change confidently, fostering a culture of resilience for enduring success and stability.

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Vimal Kakade

Guest Author The author is Vice President - Global Workforce Management, Global Talent Acquisition, Campus & Early Career, Unisys.

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