Navigating disruption and building future-ready organisations requires more than adopting the latest technology; it demands a strategic understanding of key challenges and opportunities. With rising inflation, geopolitical conflicts, and demographic shifts, the global economy is increasingly reshaping the business landscape.

According to the SHRPA 2024 report, which surveyed over 1,300 HR professionals and business leaders across APAC and the Middle East,  talent shifts and technological innovation are the top disruptors shaping business strategies. India, in particular, is prioritising talent as a key driver of disruption, with a strong emphasis on leadership, business alignment, and HR agility.

“Talent analytics and talent management are the Achilles’ heel of HR operational excellence,” said Pushkaraj Bidwai, CEO of People Matters during his opening address at People Matters TechHR Pulse in Bengaluru.

The HR tech landscape is evolving rapidly, with AI and other technologies playing an increasingly important role in HR functions. However, many organisations are still struggling with basic tech infrastructure, hindering their ability to leverage the full potential of HR technology.

Talent management and HR technology challenges are proving to be major roadblocks for businesses, with 91% of HR and business leaders reporting struggles in areas like talent hiring, upskilling, and performance. This is above the global average of 86%, underscoring the growing difficulties in adapting to shifting talent needs and effectively implementing HR technology.

To address these challenges, HR leaders are focusing on: Upskilling and reskilling employees in areas like AI, data analytics, and digital transformation. Retaining top performers through competitive compensation, flexible work arrangements, and a positive work culture. And Building a culture that fosters innovation, collaboration, and employee engagement.

While technology offers immense potential to address HR challenges, many organisations are still struggling to adopt and effectively utilise HR technology solutions. The SHRPA 2024 report reveals that 43% of organisations are still grappling with basic tech infrastructure, hindering their ability to harness the full potential of HR technology.

With talent shortages and rapid technological advancements, HR leaders are prioritizing upskilling and reskilling, especially in areas like AI, data analytics, and digital transformation, as per SHRPA 2024 findings.

HR imperatives for 2025 and beyond

Based on these insights, the SHRPA report has outlined three critical HR imperatives for organisations to focus on over the next 12 to 18 months:

1. Tech-enabled change: Organisations must accelerate technology adoption and equip leaders with the necessary skills to drive this change.

2. Building resilient teams: Emphasising agility and resilience is crucial to effectively respond to continuous disruption.

3. Aligning business, talent, and tech: Achieving alignment between talent management strategies, business objectives, and technology investments will be essential for future growth and stability.

“From talent shifts to technological disruption, HR leaders must be prepared to not only react but to proactively shape their organisations' futures,” Pushkar emphasised. 

“The research is designed to help you, as HR professionals, better understand your strategic priorities and make decisions that will keep you ahead of the curve,” Pushkar added.

Pushkar also launched People Matters Octopus – an AI-based search engine for HR solutions. “As we have been striving to help you become the answer for the last 15 years,  we’re not just sharing insights, but providing tools to make smarter, faster decisions,” he said. The platform offers unbiased software demos and detailed info on 1000+ HR solutions for easy, informed decisions.

As the discussions delved into practical applications of the SHRPA report's findings, attendees explored strategies for driving HR tech transformation, building agile teams, and ensuring the right skills are in place for tomorrow’s leaders. The event culminated in a collaborative workshop where business and HR leaders brainstormed ways to implement the SHRPA imperatives within their organisations.

Pushkar concluded with a clear agenda for HR professionals: build resilient organisations, leverage the right technology, and align talent strategies with business objectives.

You can DOWNLOAD the SHRPA 2024 report from this link.