The state of human capital analytics in developing countries: a focus on the Middle East

Abstract

Purpose

Human capital analytics (HCA) is integral to all other human capital processes. With a mature analytics practice, leaders can make better decisions more quickly and with greater confidences. This paper aims to describe results of research that shows how organizations in Middle East countries are investing in HCA. Specifically, it describes as follows: the extent to which they are investing; types of projects in which they are investing; and factors critical to making analytics work.

Design/methodology/approach

While research may include respondents from organizations in developing countries, only recently have efforts been made to monitor progress specifically in these countries. This paper attempts to describe the most recent findings of such research, paying specific attention to the use of HCA in the Middle East.

Findings

Organizations in the Middle East embrace HCA. While still in its infancy, analytics is poised to be a strategic driver that will lead to improved organizational performance.

Originality/value

Whether investing in leadership development, talent acquisition, employee engagement or talent development, analytics plays a central role in informing decisions about people investments. To make HCA work, Middle East organizations plan to continue building capability through training; embracing technology and striving to link data across programs and platforms; and integrating systems, processes and people with other functions, particularly finance. In the end, organizations will seamlessly integrate HCA into all processes to drive organization performance.

Citation

Phillips, P.P. and Phillips, J.J. (2019), "The state of human capital analytics in developing countries: a focus on the Middle East", Strategic HR Review, Vol. 18 No. 5, pp. 190-198. https://doi.org/10.1108/SHR-07-2019-0062