How to Move From Reporting to Analyzing HR Data

Bersin is generating a ton of buzz from their recent report on the state of HR analytics in major companies. "A lot of organizations don't know what it takes to get there." Bersin reports that 86% of companies are only at the early stages of operational and advanced workforce reporting. They have some solid recommendations about how to move forward from clever counting to advanced analytics. Remember, it is a journey that is never finished.

• Focus on a small number of important metrics - data will never be perfect and will be constantly changing, growing. Don't get stuck in a 'we can't start until we are ready' mindset.

• Assemble a diverse team - consulting, HR, IT, statistics, visualization, finance, and business familiarity - emphasis on consulting. If you feel stuck now, you should evaluate your current team's capabilitiies. A traditional HR business partner does not have exposure to analytics.

• Grow your capabilities over time - take on small projects and really make a strong impression. "As the value of HR analytics starts to become apparent, it will be easier to grow the team" - and gain buy-in from business leaders.

Here is the full article and interview: What does it take to move from HR reporting to workforce analytics?

Another article with views of practitioners: HR analytics early adopters say meaningful metrics, narratives are key