How HR technology can support global working
As companies become more multi-national, changes to technology can make global working easier, and more efficient than ever before.
In many of our recent blogs we’ve spoken about how technology shouldn’t be beyond the reach of small businesses and start-ups, but we also want to draw attention to the ways in which technology can make global organisations much more efficient and effective.
If you’re working for an international corporation you may be used to dealing with lots of different languages and a variety of cultural customs, not to mention the changing requirements of data security which may differ from country to country.
With so many different elements to juggle, having one consistent piece of software across each global office can make a real difference to the efficiency of your HR functionality.
Let’s look at a few of the specific ways that HR technology systems can support global working.
Consistency and efficiency across global HR teams
If your company employs tens of thousands of workers across several continents, you will understand the difficulties of maintaining efficiency and consistency. Whilst this is a challenge, it shouldn’t be one which fills you with dread.
The right technology will allow you to work in partnership with each global office to offer a consistent stream of work which adheres to an agreed dataset (which can be regularly audited for security).
By consistently applying one set of standards and incorporating a global HR function, you will be able to run comparative reports between countries, allowing you to have more confidence in your data analytics.
This will allow you to spot key trends and increase efficiency in areas which may be falling behind.
The right HRIS system will also allow you to share data between offices more effectively. Thanks to accessible mobile technology, your senior management teams can access the same data at the touch of a button no matter where they are located. Your choice of technology will also allow you to create customisable global organisational charts in a matter of minutes, simply by applying specific filters.
As a result, your business can utilise the data more effectively, giving greater visibility and increased respect to your HR function.
Migrating HR functions to new locations
If your company is opening an office in a new territory, having a centralised operating system at the heart of your HR department will allow you to be up and running as soon as possible. You will also be able to manage your teams in a consistent manner across the world; offering greater clarity of key priorities and targets.
You may find that because you are a global organisation, you have a high rate of global mobility amongst employees who may benefit from working in different offices around the world. Having one centralised HR system will make this much more effective as local teams will no longer have to complete their own ‘new starter’ documentation as all relevant data and documents will be stored in one easily-accessible location.
HR systems that support economies of scale
Simply put, incorporating one global HR system will be much cheaper to run and manage than incorporating a variety of localised, individual systems. With only one set of upgrades, one contract and one account to manage, it is undoubtedly more cost effective to incorporate a world-wide HR system.
At Silver Cloud HR, we’ve considerable expertise in working with global brands to identify the most suitable vendor for their needs. We know that inevitably offices in different countries will have different priorities, but we can work closely with your HR departments across the globe to find the most appropriate piece of software for your needs.
For more information about our independent services, or to request a free HR System health check, why not call one of our specialist consultants who will be able to discuss the many benefits of incorporating HR technology into your business.
