There are a number of trends impacting HR in 2015 and it is increasingly apparent that these changes will continue as the structure, tools and functions of traditional Human Resource departments evolve.

One of the major changes in HR best practices is the increasing move to cloud computing. Using cloud services can be less costly than installed software, and it allows businesses to be more agile than they would be with everything in-house. But that is not the only change taking place in the realm of human resources.

Social media, mobile digital devices, and business analytics are all playing growing and significant components for HR managers and their staff.

Five Major Trends in Human Resources in 2015

Unlike many other areas of business, HR has tended to remain internally focused and task-oriented. This is changing and changing rapidly. Whereas, in the past, Human Resources was considered a complementary function, or department, HR is now being seen as a determinate and dynamic function in the best companies.

That being said, the day-to-day work of a typical HR manager or department is still all-consuming and requires constant updates to stay abreast of the latest changes in legislation, regulation, and best practices. Since human resources solutions are constantly evolving it is critical to stay on top of the latest trends.

The Top Trends in HR Going Into 2015

According to research compiled by various organizations and put together in this infographic, the top trends are: 

• HR in the Cloud
• HR accessibility from any device including smart phones and tables
• Simple User Interface (UI) that allows to employees and managers interaction with HR systems easily
• Internal Social Collaboration tools, bringing social networking platforms like Facebook in the house
• Business analytics that speeds up decision making processes

 (image courtesy of www.hrmpictures.com)

Having the bulk of HR processes and functions operating "in the Cloud" serves as the driver for the other HR trends. Ideally, a vendor will offer a solution that incorporates these other trends, or they are built on to the core software solution.

These agile and mobile human resources solutions are then accessible from any device, and they provide a top-end data privacy to protect sensitive business data.

The introduction of social collaboration through social media channels is impacting a number of internal functions such as recruiting processes and trends, as well as innovation and quality management. Harnessing the power and reach of your employees networks can allow you to leverage this reach beyond that of your own department's resources.

Other Significant HR Trends for 2015

Deloitte Consulting, based in San Francisco, released their Global Human Capital Trends 2015 report, highlighting the trends HR professionals will be seeing as we move through 2015. Among the findings they noted two particular trends that will directly impact HR departments and Hr management practices:

Workforce on demand: Eighty per cent of respondents said workforce capability would be an important issue in 2015, indicating that the demand for skills will drive a trend towards greater use of hourly, contingent and contract workers as opposed to salaried employees.

Employers who opt for this strategy must ensure that they have the right processes, policies and tools in place so that they can source, evaluate and reward non-traditional talent within their organizations.

Retooling HR: HR departments are undergoing significant changes in order to assist their companies in delivering greater impact and help drive innovation. The need to reskill was the fourth biggest issue for 2015 report. Interestingly, HR’s overall performance was generally rated as low by both HR and business leaders.

Business leaders rated HR’s performance 20% lower than HR leaders rated it, highlighting the importance for HR professional’s ability to deliver value across the business. The report also found that there is an increasing trend for companies to bring in non-HR professionals to fill the role of CHRO.

Getting help with HR best practices

At some point in the growth of your company it makes sense to consider other options for maintainingand managing the vast number of tasks and functions that fall under the HR department. While newer software and automation are certainly viable and beneficial options, it can often be far more cost-effective to outsource.

If you are considering outsourcing some or all of your payroll processes, give us a call. Let Accuchex help you in managing your HR needs, payroll processes, and staying on top of compliance demands. Get your Free Download: Payroll Outsourcing Guide to help you make an informed decision or call Accuchex Payroll Management Services at 877-422-2824.