Technology continues to play a pivotal role in shaping corporate culture and strategy in 2023. It’s no secret that the integration of technology into our work lives has been transformative. However, there’s a delicate balance to strike, and it’s something that Krish Shankar, the former Group Head of Human Resources at Infosys and author of the HR-focused book “Catalyse,” understands all too well.
A Harmonious Blend of Tech and Humanity
Krish Shankar advocates for the seamless integration of technology into corporate culture, one that complements the strategic triangle of leaders, routines, and incentives. For him, it’s not about replacing human interaction and collaboration with technology; it’s about enhancing them.
The corporate landscape today is shifting. With a growing number of new employees and remote workers, organizations face the challenge of maintaining a strong culture in a digital environment. Krish believes that technology can be a powerful tool to promote collaboration, communication, and transparency. It’s about using technology to bridge the gap between the physical and digital worlds, creating a harmonious blend of tech and humanity.
The Double-Edged Sword of Tech Integration
The integration of technology into corporate culture is a double-edged sword. On one hand, it streamlines processes, making work more efficient. On the other hand, if not approached thoughtfully, it can diminish the importance of human interaction and collaboration.
Krish emphasizes the need for technological interfaces that prioritize the human experience. By doing so, we can enhance engagement and make the adoption of new technologies smoother. After all, the true goal is to empower employees, not overwhelm them.
Tackling Burnout and Overload
One pressing issue in the corporate world is the burnout and overload experienced by HR leaders. Many are navigating overwhelming workloads with limited resources and manual processes. Shockingly, more than 30% of HR teams operate without any benefits technology. This lack of crucial tools hinders their ability to gather data, manage their workforce, and provide much-needed support.
Inefficient processes not only burden HR teams emotionally but also come with substantial costs in terms of inefficient labor and poor benefits experience. These issues ultimately lead to disengagement and an unhealthy workforce.
Finding the Right HR Technology Vendor
Selecting the right HR and benefits technology vendor can be a daunting task. It’s a significant investment, so it’s crucial to find a platform that can drive efficiency and provide essential insights. Here are some questions HR leaders should consider when choosing a technology provider:
- How will the platform support cost management for the organization? What ROI can be expected in the first three years?
- Does the platform promote employee self-service?
- Does the platform offer tools for year-round engagement, not just during enrollment periods?
- Will there be real-time, self-service access to data and on-demand reporting?
- How does AI enhance efficiency, personalization, and engagement?
- Is there a mobile app version, and how often is it updated?
Investing in HR technology can lead to substantial benefits in both the short and long term. By providing critical insights, creating seamless employee experiences, and streamlining administrative tasks, organizations can foster a more efficient and empathetic workplace for employees, including their HR teams.