More than half of European companies are increasing their focus on digitalising HR processes

According to a study by SD Worx, the leading European HR and payroll provider, more than half of European companies have increased their focus on the digitalisation of all HR processes. The non-profit sector, in particular healthcare, is gaining ground in this area, coming in at 57%. Among younger employees under the age of 35, 54% feel that digitalisation on the workfloor needs improvement. Although digitalisation and hybrid working are on the rise, the human aspect remains important within certain HR domains such as onboarding, recruitment or departure interviews. SD Worx ran a survey across 4,371 employers and 10,119 employees.

More than half of European companies (53%) have noticed increased efforts to streamline the digitalisation of HR processes within their company. In particular, companies in Italy (61%), the United Kingdom and Belgium (both 59%) and the Netherlands (57%) have seen greater attention paid to the field of HR digitalisation. The study emphasises that the focus on digitalising HR processes is increasing, but also confirms the importance of companies finding an optimal balance between a digital approach and a personal approach. Even in times of hybrid working, it is important to consider employees' needs, the organisation's situation, and the expectations in a specific HR domain.

Employees under the age of 25 are more likely to be won over by a digital approach, particularly in the HR domains of the recruitment process (23.1%), monitoring health and well-being (21%), communication on remuneration (23%), the provision of HR services (interaction with the HR department) (27%) and HR administration (32%), performance appraisals (16%) and departure interviews (16%). This is likely due to the fact that they have grown up in a digital world.

Bruce Fecheyr-Lippens, Chief People Officer at SD Worx explains: "Digitalising HR processes and a personal approach do not have to be mutually exclusive. The figures confirm that making significant investments in both approaches is worthwhile for employees. During a performance appraisal, employees not only want to see a score on a screen, but also expect a personal explanation. This also applies to more complex issues regarding administration or HR services. Digitalisation naturally has a positive impact in many areas. By automating certain processes and supporting digital tools, you give your employees the opportunity to make the most of their time, their talents and their skills. A good example is Mysdworx, where employees and employers can organise their HR administration online. This also has the effect of freeing up more space for personal contact where it's most needed for employees. Digitalisation and a personal approach complement each other nicely within HR.