As we approach 2020, leaders across industries are contemplating the future outlook for their organizations. It is evident that emerging technology will play a significant role in the upcoming year.
Spiros Paleologos, the vice president and general manager of Kronos Canada, offers his valuable insights and predictions for the future of technology in the field of HR as we embark on a new decade.
HRD: What are some exciting developments in the world of technology?
Paleologos: As technology advances, user preferences also evolve. Similarly, people can be influenced and transformed by the introduction of new technology. This phenomenon has a significant impact on the world of workforce technology. In today’s workforce, we are seeing a diverse range of generations, with millennials being the largest group. This generation has been raised in a world of mobile devices and instant access to information. Therefore, their employer is expected to provide them with cutting-edge technologies to efficiently carry out their work and daily responsibilities. They also look for tools to manage their time and HR records, including convenient options like shift swapping and time off requests. Additionally, they value a healthy work-life balance and the freedom to work in a way that suits them best.
With the rise of cutting-edge technologies such as artificial intelligence and machine learning, meeting these expectations has become more achievable and will remain so in the future. On the horizon for employers is the necessity of reevaluating their culture in order to stay competitive in the talent war. Technology plays a significant role in this endeavor, but the ultimate objective is to prioritize the needs of our employees and involve them in innovative ways to shape the future of work.
HRD: What do you anticipate for the future?
Paleologos: Understanding the needs and desires of your employees is crucial for the success of your organization. In 2020, many companies will face challenges when it comes to implementing digital transformation. Migrating technologies to the cloud can be quite challenging, and it is important to dispel the misconception that everyone has already transitioned to the cloud. Numerous companies are lagging behind in their digital transformation efforts.
As we move forward, I anticipate a greater number of companies embracing the digital transformation journey in 2020. Primarily, due to the lack of alternatives, but also because it will pave the way for their future triumph. It is evident that the need for digital transformation is already present, and the available technologies ensure that this trend will persist for years to come.
HRD: What are the key factors employers should be aware of?
Paleologos: Employers need to be aware of the growing competition to attract top talent in 2020, despite the potential economic downturn. As companies progress in their digital transformation journey, it is crucial to meet employee expectations of having the appropriate technologies available when and where they are needed. Failing to do so may result in talent attrition.
HRD: What is the objective for your company as we enter the new decade?
Paleologos: As a business manager, we are excited about the opportunity to enhance our offerings and provide customers with the most comprehensive HCM solution in Canada. We believe there is immense potential for companies to leave behind the outdated, manual processes and embrace the advantages of cloud technology. We are confident that our expertise can assist them in transitioning to a more advanced cloud HCM solution that prioritizes the needs of their employees.
HRD: Are there any upcoming products that you can provide some details on, or any plans for updates or changes?
Paleologos: As a business manager, it is important to keep our customers informed about the value of viewing their workforce as a strategic advantage. We are excited about the opportunity to educate them on the benefits of investing in HCM technology for accurate workforce management and insightful data extraction. In the past, both globally and in Canada, the workforce was primarily seen as a financial burden for businesses. Today, organizations understand that people are crucial to their success.
We are excited to assist organizations in optimizing their workforce’s potential through the implementation of intelligent, automated solutions that propel the business forward, while prioritizing the employee’s needs. Implementing solutions that optimize personnel placement, empower employees to manage their schedules, utilize data to combat exhaustion and stress, allow managers to prioritize their team and customers, and offer proactive compliance assistance.