Discover how leading companies like Google, Amazon, and IBM are transforming global HRM through people analytics.
As with all forms of innovation, some organisations excel in implementing people analytics faster and more effectively than others. This blog explores the relationship between people analytics and global human resource management (HRM) by highlighting companies that are leading the way in leveraging data for organisational success.
Additionally, we’ll explain how the King’s College London’s Global Human Resource Management MSc can help you master these techniques and their ethical implications.
Importance and benefits of people analytics in Global HRM
People analytics is a valuable tool for organisations striving to stay ahead, especially in today’s global business environment. By using data to understand employees, businesses can make evidence-based decisions that drive productivity, enhance morale, and improve retention rates.
In the context of global HRM, people analytics provides insights into workforce diversity, cultural dynamics, and compliance with varying regional regulations—all critical factors when managing a global workforce.
At King’s College London, the MSc Global Human Resource Management will equip you to navigate these complexities with confidence. A standout feature of this programme is the HR and Data Analytics module, which introduces you to the strengths, weaknesses, opportunities, and risks associated with people analytics, including its ethical implications.
By mastering both quantitative and qualitative analyses, you’ll learn how to interpret data outputs and communicate findings to key stakeholders, ultimately shaping organisational strategies and policies.
Examples of people analytics innovation
To understand how people analytics shapes global HRM, let’s examine some leading companies and their innovative approaches:
Google’s Project Oxygen initiative is a masterclass in data-driven HR innovation. By analysing employee performance reviews and feedback, Google identified the key behaviours of effective managers. These insights enabled the creation of tailored training programmes, improving leadership, employee satisfaction, and overall organisational performance. In a global HRM context, such practices can be adapted to manage diverse teams across different cultural and geographical boundaries with data-driven precision.
Amazon
American technology company Amazon utilises people analytics to optimise its vast global workforce. In its logistics and fulfilment centres, data on employee productivity and safety is analysed to improve workflows and reduce workplace accidents. These practices not only enhance operational efficiency but also support the well-being of employees—a key concern in global HRM.
Deloitte
Global professional services firm Deloitte integrates people analytics into its consulting services to improve workforce performance. By analysing recruitment, engagement, and retention data, Deloitte identifies trends and implements measures to enhance staff retention and attract top talent. These insights are critical for organisations operating in competitive global markets where talent acquisition and retention are paramount.
IBM
Multinational technology company IBM’s predictive attrition programme uses AI to forecast employee turnover with remarkable accuracy. By analysing thousands of data points, the system provides actionable recommendations for managers to address potential issues. This is particularly valuable for global HRM, where managing turnover across regions requires nuanced strategies.
Unilever
Unilever, a British multinational consumer goods company, combines people analytics with AI to streamline global talent acquisition. Their system filters candidate data, identifies top talent, and reduces human bias. This approach not only accelerates hiring processes but also supports Unilever’s goal of implementing a unified HR system across the 104 countries it operates in.
Haier
Haier, a Chinese home appliances company, has pioneered people analytics in its organisational model known as "Rendanheyi," which empowers employees with data-driven decision-making. By leveraging AI and big data analytics, Haier optimises workforce efficiency and aligns employee goals with business objectives, fostering a highly innovative workplace culture.
Tata Consultancy Services
Tata Consultancy Services (TCS) is an Indian multinational technology company that integrates people analytics into its HR strategy to enhance employee engagement and retention. Through its AI-driven HR management system, TCS analyses workforce performance and well-being, ensuring optimal talent management while addressing workforce challenges unique to the Indian IT sector.
Rakuten
Rakuten, a Japanese e-commerce company, uses people analytics to enhance its corporate culture and performance management. Through data-driven insights, Rakuten has developed unique employee training programmes, optimised recruitment strategies, and ensured continuous employee development in a fast-evolving digital economy.
The role of the Global Human Resource Management MSc in your career
If you’re ready to progress your career in global HRM, the Global Human Resource Management MSc at King’s College London can help you gain practical expertise that aligns with the needs of leading organisations worldwide.
The HR and Data Analytics module is specifically designed to:
- Introduce the strengths and limitations of people analytics.
- Explore ethical considerations in data collection and analysis.
- Teach quantitative and qualitative analytical methods.
- Develop skills in interpreting data outputs and presenting findings to stakeholders.
- Demonstrate how data-driven insights can positively impact organisational decision-making, strategy development, and policy implementation.
This module also focuses on contemporary digital technologies and effective communication—skills that are critical for navigating the complexities of global HRM.
Why choose King’s College London?
The King’s Global Human Resource Management MSc is a flexible, part-time programme delivered online, allowing you to balance your studies with existing commitments. As organisations continue to embrace people analytics to manage their global workforces, the skills you’ll acquire in this MSc programme will empower you to make a lasting impact in the field of global HRM.