In my previous article on the importance of HR processes, it became evident that streamlined processes reduce inefficiencies. This will lead into more effective ways of workings, ultimately saving time for HR.
By focusing on process management, HR can identify areas for improvement, align processes with strategic goals, and contribute to the long-term success of the organisation. Essentially, to effectively serve as a strategic HR partner, HR should prioritise process management without losing sight of its primary user—the employee.
However, the daily reality is, that HR is often busy, with demands from both the business and employees. Unfortunately, HR processes may not always receive the priority they deserve, or HR may struggle to identify where to start.
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Is It a Process or a Task?
Basically process management is crucial as it ensures tasks are consistently executed according to standards. This enhances the quality of outcomes and encourages a uniform approach across the organisation. An HR process and an HR task are two components within the broader scope of HR, but they differ in terms of scale, complexity, and duration.
HR Processes
An HR process is a structured activity that contributes to achieving a specific HR-related goal or objective. The process often involves multiple steps, and are executed by HR professionals and/or other stakeholders in the organisation. Examples of HR processes include recruitment, onboarding, performance management, employee development, and employee offboarding. Each of these processes encompasses several tasks that, when executed in a structured way, achieve a specific HR outcome.
HR Tasks
An HR task is a specific, individual action or assignment within the broader context of HR processes. Tasks are generally smaller in scope and can be completed within a shorter timeframe. They contribute to the overall success of an HR process but are more specific and easier to handle individually. For example, within the recruitment process, tasks may include reviewing resumes, conducting interviews, or checking references. Each of these tasks contributes to the larger process.
Core HR Tasks
In addition, the main HR processes are the key strategies HR professionals use to ensure successful employee life cycles and work experiences. Core HR processes include:
- Talent Acquisition
- Onboarding
- Job change
- Training
- Employee Relations
- Performance Management
- Talent Management
- Benefits administration
- Workforce planning
- Offboarding
What is Lean Six Sigma in HR?
Meanwhile in the world of HR, where documents and data are central, Lean Six Sigma principles can help streamline processes and eliminate inefficiencies. By incorporating this into the HR operations, HR can enhance productivity, reduce errors, and ensure a seamless experience for employees.
Lean Six Sigma is a methodology known for its efficiency and effectiveness in improving processes. It offers benefits such as cost reduction, enhanced quality, increased employee satisfaction, data-driven decision-making, and sustainable results. Overall, Lean Six Sigma is a valuable tool to optimise processes and deliver better results.
HR Process Excellence
At the Human in Progress Academy, we have designed the course HR Process Excellence that aims to empower HR professionals with a profound understanding of how processes will positively impact HR departments.
The learning objectives are designed to equip professionals with the skills needed to make a tangible impact:
- Understanding the principles of Lean Six Sigma and the practical skills to make a meaningful impact on HR processes, employee experiences, and the overall success of the organisation.
- Learning how to systematically draft HR processes to streamline tasks, making it easier to access and retrieve vital information quickly.
- Implementing time-saving strategies for efficient HR process management, allowing the HR professional to allocate more time to strategic tasks and employee engagement.
Actually top performing professionals excel through reading and memory. Most of us need hands-on experience by physical and emotional memory to grasp new concepts and retaining knowledge.
This course offers a valuable opportunity to acquire new skills efficiently, optimising learning and save time.
In situations where immediate support is required, instead of following the Human in Progress training courses, our HR Consulting services might offer the necessary assistance. This consulting service could serve as a potential solution by thoroughly examining existing processes and pinpointing opportunities for improvement.
Above all, our primary objective is always to evaluate whether these tasks can be automated, aiming to minimise the manual workload for HR.
