e‐HR: Using Intranets to Improve the Effectiveness of Your People

Citation

Steinbuch, P.I. (2005), "e‐HR: Using Intranets to Improve the Effectiveness of Your People", Leadership & Organization Development Journal, Vol. 26 No. 1, pp. 80-81. https://doi.org/10.1108/01437730410556806

The ubiquity of the worldwide web presents organizations with a broader opportunity to manage information. In e‐HR: Using Intranets to Improve the Effectiveness of Your People, Bryan Hopkins and James Markham provide a comprehensive analysis of browser‐based internet use for strategic human resource management. The book begins with a clear distinction between the following two electronic forms of data management: client‐server applications, which have replaced manual information management, and web‐enabled applications, which have increased employee access to integrated corporate‐wide systems. The authors make a strong case for the integration of portals, which provide user‐friendly front access, with ERP systems, which integrate databases throughout the company, to enable the Human Resource Department to fulfill strategic HR functions rather than just HR administration. They provide a compelling argument for transforming traditional HR tasks into proactive strategic decision‐making activities, via e‐HR.

Chapter 1 reviews the benefits of e‐HR from operational, information quality improvement, organizational integration, access and availability, cost reduction and employee empowerment perspectives. Hopkins and Markham assert that self‐service e‐HR applications are fostering stronger collaborative working relationships, as HR becomes increasingly more customer‐focused. For those with a technology background or interest, Chapter 2 provides a thorough explanation of networks and intranets.

Although it is clear that Hopkins and Markham are strong advocates of e‐HR, they are careful to stress that adoption of e‐HR is not a “one‐size fits all” approach. In Chapter 3 the authors present a blueprint for deciding where e‐HR could benefit your business and what kind of approach is appropriate for your business, as well. Particularly impressive is their discussion of building a business case and preparing a value proposition to support the adoption of e‐HR. Traditionally HR departments were viewed as cost centers, and Hopkins and Markham assist the reader in developing ROI models to gain the support of senior management for the adoption of these web‐enabled systems. Chapters 4‐7 present in clear and comprehensive detail how e‐HR can:

1. 1.

   deliver core HR services;

2. 2.

   manage people more effectively;

3. 3.

   improve collaboration and learning; and’

4. 4.

   enhance employee benefits.

Logically and appropriately, the authors conclude with two final chapters, which focus both on planning the e‐HR implementation strategy and the actual implementation of the pertinent IT systems.

e‐HR: Using Intranets to Improve the Effectiveness of Your People is an invaluable guide for HR professionals, as well as IT staff who are involved in implementing and maintaining HR systems. The balanced presentation of HR needs and IT technology is evident throughout the book. e‐HR is a clear and organized treatment of a multi‐faceted and ever evolving topic. The authors do a superb job of synthesizing complex material into a lucid and thorough presentation. The book is an excellent resource for HR professionals, students in the field of HR and corporate IT staff. e‐HR: Using Intranets to Improve the Effectiveness of Your People is well suited for both the academic and practitioner audience and is invaluable reading for anyone interested in HR and IT issues. I recommend this book without reservation.