Data security is now the number one priority for companies adopting HR technologies. Capterra’s survey of HR professionals from 11 countries, including 296 in the UK, found that:
- 75% UK HR leaders view security as a key feature when researching and implementing software for HR.
- Security concerns prompted 46% of respondents to purchase HR software last year.
- Nearly half of UK HR professionals (45%) are concerned about privacy risks associated with AI-powered HR Tools (highest among all countries surveyed), a reflection of increased caution as more solutions include AI capabilities.
With increased scrutiny and public confidence at stake, UK HR leaders face increasing pressure to ensure new software, especially those with AI features, meets the highest standards of privacy protection. David Jani is a senior analyst at Capterra. Security should be integrated into every stage in HR technology adoption from vendor selection to training employees, to foster compliance and trust.
Organisations are advised to choose HR software vendors that have strong security certifications, and use transparent data management practices. It is important to regularly update and audit security protocols, especially when integrating AI that processes personal data. Businesses should implement access controls, encryption, create clear privacy policies and train staff on best practices for data handling.
These measures are important because UK HR teams manage on average five HR tools in each organisation. This can lead to increased exposure if they are not secured properly.
Training is urgently needed to fill the AI and HR software skill gaps
A significant skills gap is also highlighted by the survey: while over 60% of UK organizations already use AI in their HR software features, 42% say that a lack AI expertise among their teams is an obstacle to adoption. Training new users to use HR systems is the primary concern of 54% HR leaders. Meanwhile, 46% cite upskilling their employees as the biggest operational challenge in the coming year.
It can also increase the risk of data breaches, as employees may not have the necessary expertise to use HR tools safely. To ensure that these technologies are used responsibly, companies must invest in comprehensive training as well as learning management.
As recruiting becomes costly, HR continues to turn to AI
The benefits of AI-enabled software for HR are evident despite these obstacles. AI-powered solutions for recruiting, for example, can automate repetitive processes and improve the matching of candidates. AI can help HR streamline recruitment, as 66% of UK leaders in HR expect costs to increase.
AI users also report a higher level of employee engagement and satisfaction, with 55% reporting a higher rate than non-users. Retention rates are higher as well for AI adopters.
Organisations that prioritize security and training are best placed to reap the benefits of modern HR technology while protecting employee data.
The first time this post appeared was on HR News.
