'If you do not have the supporting processes… these could be shelf-ware projects that do not go anywhere'
When it comes to technology, employers often fall prey to Shiny Object Syndrome. Essentially, rushing blindly into buying the newest HR tool without properly understanding its capabilities and restrictions for their specific company.
In HRD’s recent 5-Star HR Software & Technology Providers report, we looked at the current stats of technology in Canadian organizations – assessing trends that’re impacting the current milieu. And, one of the main findings, was a need for moderation when it comes to rolling out new tools.
“There are amazing tools that can help with recruiting, onboarding, employee engagement, training, and advanced HR functions,” says David Piazza, division president of SoftwareReviews. “But if you do not have the supporting processes, data models, and support in place to make sure these are rolled out effectively and efficiently, these could be shelf-ware projects that do not go anywhere.”
And that’s the crux of the issue for HR leaders. Balancing that budget and setting C-suite expectations come hand in hand with implementation – and it’s much more important to walk before you run.
Speaking with Dave Birchfield, global director of people strategy at McDonald’s, he told HRD that while it’s fun to chase the next big thing, you need to get the plumbing in place first. Speaking specifically on ChatGPT, Birchfield says he’s excited about the new developments – but needs to ensure the messaging is on brand.
“On the upside, ChatGPT will definitely speed up processes,” he says. “If we think about communicating with Gen Z and engaging with the people in our restaurants in an instantaneous fashion, at our scale, contextual AI could help us do that – and if that’s harnessed in the right way, we can become a nimbler enterprise from the boardroom to the crew room.”
Want to learn more on how to supercharge your tech strategy? Check out HRD’s Best HR Software Companies winners in the recent 5-Star HR Software & Technology Providers here.
