Information systems: The quiet revolution in human resource management

Information systems and the Internet are revolutionizing Human Resource Management (FIRM) in organizations, creating innovations for traditional HR functions and allowing operational efficiency that was incomprehensible only five years ago. Workflow processes such as payroll are highly automated, performance appraisals are simplified with software that tracks core competencies, training and development is done more cost effectively online with distance learning, and salary surveys are online and timely. In addition, application service providers (ASPs) allow small and medium firms access to previously unaffordable HRISs such as Peoplesoft and SAP, e-recruiting has exploded in popularity, online pre-employment testing offers cost savings and reduced turnover, and employees deal with benefits questions online through self-service centers. E-signatures on employee documents are legally binding as of October 2000, virtual conference rooms aid HR in dealing with global employees and HR knowledge bases put HR in league with professionals in medicine and law. There is not a function in HR today that is not applying software. A true IS revolution is happening in the HRM field.