The next wave of disruption in HR

Mobile apps are set to transform employee experience

In India, human resource (HR) has seen a lot of transformation in the past few years. The move from manual- and administrative-intensive activities to technology-oriented function has led itself to become a strategic business partner of the organisation. The next wave of disruption that will transform HR and employee experience is "app-ification of HR".

According to KPCB Internet Trends 2015 report, on an average, a smartphone user checks her device approximately 150 times a day and spends almost 51 per cent of the 5.6 hours per day usage of the internet on mobile phones. This means your employees are two to five times more likely to access applications on their phone than on their personal computer.

The biggest curiosity with Gen Y and millennials is to have a simplified work life where transactions like marking attendance, applying for leave, checking employee directory, workflow approvals, submitting bills/claims, and viewing pay slip can be managed through smartphones. We have moved away from 9-5 cubicle jobs to anytime anywhere jobs. When the jobs demand this level of flexibility, the workforce systems would be expected to follow the trend. In such a situation, a mobile app, which could help manage these transactions, would be helpful.

According to the 2015 HR Service Delivery and Technology Survey by Tower Watson, employer interest continues to grow in the use of mobile technologies and HR portal technologies. Almost 61 per cent plan to use mobile technologies for HR transactions this year, a significant increase from 46 per cent last year. Additionally, 88 per cent respondents plan to spend the same amount or more on HR technology and systems this year compared to last year. Organisations are replacing their core HR management systems every three to five years instead of seven years historically.

Mobile apps are a great way for HR departments to provide managers and employees with on-the-go access to the programmes and information they need. While implementing an HR app, adequate security and compliance and local regulatory rules in case of device lost/recovery are important aspects.

Whether candidates are fresh graduates or seasoned professionals, a recruiting mobile app is a great way to keep them engaged while making it through the sometimes tedious hiring process. It' a great medium to inform the candidates of interview schedules, background on the organisation, interviewer details, and share recruiting collateral like videos. If an offer is extended, you can provide an updated list of pre-boarding activities.

Mobile apps are increasingly valuable and easy for employee management functions including employee performance, workplace morale, and even scheduling. With mobile and social HR apps, it is easier to understand the company's pulse without data crunch or paper surveys.

A mobile app could allow the executive to show the manager accurate needs that are impacting the business. This convenience and flexibility allows managers and HR professionals to grow and change strategies more efficiently. Allowing your workforce to perform HR functions on mobile on mobile devices means greater efficiency and effectiveness when it comes to administration. Requests for time off or for leave are often incredibly inefficient.

Pankaj Bansal
Co-founder and CEO, PeopleStrong HR Services

Dakshdeep Singh
Service delivery leader, PeopleStrong HR Services