HR tech tools evolve to handle special purposes

In addition to traditional services of HR software and cloud-based services, technological tools built for agility and for specialized purposes will soon become critical for the evolution of an organization, said an industry expert. The specialised tools will include those for continuous performance management, frequent feedback, data analysis and learning tools, added Lorna Daly, regional director, EMEA, Halogen Software who is a Gold Sponsor of the 3rd annual HR Tech Summit organized by QnA International. Driven by natural workplace changes and inspired by vastly different work ethics amongst new working demographics, HR Technology is continuously evolving from its traditional core of payroll, employee record management and recruitment. “People and their expectations of work are changing all over the world and it is happening quickly,” said Daly. “We know that if people can give and receive feedback on an ongoing basis, they can feel good about what they do, and would be encouraged to bring their best effort forward, so they can give more to their customers, organizations and communities,” continued Daly. Ongoing performance reviews, frequent and timely feedback is a new HR trend sweeping across many organizations across the globe. The need for almost immediate feedback stems from the multigenerational workforce, and the changing nature of work. “It comes down to something very fundamental; people want to feel a connection and a purpose to their organisation, that their contribution is valued and impactful,” stressed Daly. To meet this new HR demands, organisations need to employ the new technological trends becoming available in the market place. However, Daly cautioned on the blind application of these new HR technology tools, suggesting that organizations should “First recognise if the organisation is culturally ready to make the shift from traditional to ongoing performance management. Second, company leaders must be ready to act as role models for the rest of the staff. Culturally ready organizations are those which champion flexibility and adaptability to refine processes through the constant collection of feedback on new processes. This feedback loop ensures employees are supported.” “Keeping up with technology developments affecting HR is becoming a tough task. The managerial process for human resources across the globe is in a state of fluidity,” said Sidh N C, director, QnA International. “Especially in the UAE and GCC which will see two new shifts with the onboarding of nationalization and VAT policies in the coming years, the importance of employing and using the appropriate tools for HR functions cannot be stressed more. Knowing the challenging changes ahead, we have planned the 3rd annual HR Tech Summit to provide in-depth discussions and ultimately provide a platform HR and IT Leaders to analyse the HR technology tools available, their uses, and whether or not they should be adapted and when adapted how it will impact the organizations in the region.” On the trend of nationalization in the UAE and GCC, Daly said: “There is a great opportunity for business and HR leaders in the GCC to maximise the potential that exists in their respective region. In order to do this, organisations need to understand the existing skill sets of local nationals, continuously support the development of essential skills, and help with the career progression of local nationals into leadership positions. This effort will help organisations become an attractive destination for GCC citizens seeking employment and help shape the economic destiny of the region.” Halogen Software will be actively taking part in the by-invite only premier summit which attracted over 150 C-level and senior level HR and IT personnel from government, state, public, and private organizations in 2016. “HR Tech Mena provides a terrific opportunity to connect with some of the world’s most thoughtful HR and business leaders. The partnership has opened the door to connect with very successful companies and has given us the opportunity to learn more about the emerging global trends and priorities in HR,” commented Daly on the importance of sponsoring, participating, and attending the 3rd annual HR Tech Summit.