Accenture recommended that employers think broadly about adopting systems, but also recognized that investments in technology are more likely to be successful in organizations with engaged, well-trained employees.
This isn’t a novel observation. In fact, Workhuman’s 2019 International Employee Survey maintained that in the face of digitalization and fears of job loss caused by AI and robotics, the future of work will still be human-centric. Workhuman contended that for humans to thrive, employers must adopt programs and “human applications” that bring about respect, trust, gratitude, appreciation, equity and autonomy. A 2018 Mercer report agreed, arguing that the “human operating system” is vital to the adoption of new tech.
HR leaders have long recognized the value of adopting tech, but many say they lack the resources for digital transformation. Still, the upfront investment in technologies could be worthwhile in the long run, according to a Hackett Group study, which showed that automation could let HR organizations reduce costs by 17% and function with “26% fewer staff hours.” The report also found operating costs for “world-class” HR organizations were 20% lower than the costs for non-digitally forward organizations.