Will the Top 2017 HR Trends Carry Forward to 2018?

Some of the top HR trends in 2017 focused on technology, innovation, and HR decision making based on data analytics. Businesses continued to adopt a range of strategies to attract talent and retain their best employees. HR departments found ways to streamline daily administrative tasks, allowing for more time to focus on strategic decision-making and employee issues. Moving forward, advanced innovation could bring higher cost efficiency to HR processes, and the potential for more customized data insights and analysis.

The latest HR technologies drive efficiency and accuracy

Many 2017 HR technology innovations focused on increasing the accuracy and efficiency of HR reporting. For example, the high-level security of biometric identification in daily applications (such as iris recognition time clocks) can automate employee time tracking. The adoption of mobile technology has also expanded, due to high demand and increased user acceptance. Time and attendance tracking can now be accomplished through mobile apps, allowing employees to punch in and out from any work location.

Outsourcing continues to gain popularity

As employment regulations and payroll processing increase in complexity, businesses are relying on HR outsourcing. Rather than expend resources to develop this knowledge in-house, HR providers can offer highly efficient systems and compliance experts to assist in answering questions in the areas of compensation and benefits. Using such HR solutions can help business owners and managers focus more time on their own areas of expertise, and can even help improve cost savings.

HR trends show more employee focus

A recent Paychex survey revealed that employees' perceptions of HR roles and responsibilities don't always match up with reality. Employees generally look to the HR department for assistance with workplace issues and career transitioning. Often, HR is called upon to help implement company-wide business strategies through succession planning and career mapping. Employees may also look for HR to mediate as part of the conflict resolution process. HR professionals should be prepared to handle issues as they arise and assess the need for additional management training to respond to these issues.

HR uses analytics for business planning

Advances in HR technology have allowed for greater data insights. Workforce analytics can guide HR teams and allow them to provide greater input to company-wide strategic initiatives. Data mining may reveal which areas the company is performing well and where improvements may be needed. Workforce patterns and employee preferences can be studied to develop the best benefits package for your business.

Looking to 2018

This year, HR trends could continue to focus on technology, cost efficiency, and overall business strategy. As another wave of workers – Generation Z – enters the workforce, they will bring their own work preferences, technical skills, and knowledge to their career. HR professionals can help integrate the latest innovation and workplace trends by analyzing current company performance and helping to set a strategic direction for the business.