In the business world, artificial intelligence (AI) is playing a key role in transforming traditional business operations, and even more so in human resources (HR). IBM, a global technology leader, is at the forefront of this revolution, leveraging AI to automate mundane tasks and significantly improve the efficiency and strategic capabilities of HR departments.
Automating tasks
At IBM, the introduction of AI in HR has automated the labor-intensive task of data collection, which traditionally consumed a substantial portion of HR's time. This shift is illustrated by the implementation of advanced AI technologies that handle data-intensive tasks, freeing HR professionals to focus on more strategic initiatives.
The use of AI demonstrated in a pilot project for IBM Consulting in North America, a savings of 12,000 hours in just one quarter. By implementing AI-driven solutions, tasks that typically took 10 weeks were completed in just 5 weeks, showing a significant reduction in operational time. This not only accelerated HR processes, but also allowed the organization to reallocate precious resources to more critical areas, improving overall productivity and agility.
Traditionally, this process was cumbersome, involving the manual collection and analysis of data from various systems, a task that could extend up to 10 weeks every quarter. With the intervention of AI, these tasks have been significantly simplified. IBM's HR Business Partners, who are tasked with driving and retaining talent, now leverage AI to automate these processes, ensuring promotions are handled more efficiently and equitably.
HiRo: the digital worker
The latest innovation is the creation of a digital worker called HiRo. This AI-powered tool has transformed promotion management at IBM. HiRo automates repetitive and manual tasks that previously burdened HR professionals, such as compiling and formatting large amounts of employee data. By taking over these tasks, HiRo not only saves time, but also reduces the potential for human error, ensuring that the promotion process is fair and consistent.
The adoption of HiRo and similar AI technologies raises important questions about the ethical implications of AI in the workplace and its impact on employment. Contrary to the common fear that automation could lead to job loss, IBM's approach exemplifies how AI can enhance job roles. The implementation of HiRo has enabled HR professionals to spend more time on strategic thinking and decision making rather than routine data processing. In addition, IBM ensures that all AI implementations, including HiRo, adhere to strict ethical standards for data privacy, security and transparency.
