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Publications

Share knowledge. Strengthen impact.

In the spirit of an open source philosophy, we publish our study results freely accessible to inspire and advance companies, experts and interested parties. Our studies provide evidence-based insights from practice and show how HR analytics can be used effectively - with a clear focus on relevance, implementation and impact.

01.03.2025
Title: Optimising the benefits of HR analytics: the right skills mix is crucial
Authors:
Marius Gerber
Prof. Dr. Marius Gerber ZHAW School of Management and Law
Michael Heimann
Michael Heimann ZHAW School of Management and Law
Jonas Probst
Jonas Probst Swiss HR Analytics
Abstract:

In this qualitative study, Swiss HR Analytics analyses why the expected benefits of HR analytics often fall short of the possibilities in practice. In interviews with 14 Swiss companies, key causes were identified in the areas of skills, work organisation and technology. The results show that although those responsible have analytical skills, which they often bring with them from controlling, they rarely have HR-specific skills. However, effective HR analytics requires an interdisciplinary mix of skills, especially for the creation of strategic use cases and the translation of data into actionable insights. Fragmented processes and unclear responsibilities also make implementation more difficult. Technological potential, for example through AI and automated data integration, often remains unutilised. The study therefore formulates specific recommendations for action to strengthen analytical competences, strategically anchor HR analytics and promote technology in a targeted manner. Five case studies illustrate how companies can successfully implement data-supported HR decisions despite existing challenges.

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01.02.2025
Title: Optimising the benefits of HR analytics: a qualitative root cause analysis
Authors:
Marius Gerber
Prof. Dr. Marius Gerber ZHAW School of Management and Law
Michael Heimann
Michael Heimann ZHAW School of Management and Law
Jonas Probst
Jonas Probst Swiss HR Analytics
Abstract:

This exploratory study by Swiss HR Analytics examines the reasons for the limited use of HR analytics in corporate practice to date. Based on a preliminary study, qualitative interviews were conducted with 14 Swiss companies of different sectors and sizes in order to identify key hurdles in the implementation and impact of HR analytics. The results show that the degree of maturity and impact are strongly influenced by the professional background of those responsible, an often fragmented work organisation and technological interface problems. Although artificial intelligence is seen as a potential lever for increasing efficiency, it has hardly been utilised to date. In addition, there is often a lack of clear responsibilities for the implementation of measures and a systematic impact evaluation. Five in-depth case studies illustrate possible success factors and best practices. The study concludes with practical recommendations for organisations that want to make more targeted use of HR analytics and sustainably increase their added value. Key starting points are a broader skills mix, strategically anchored use cases, integrated technologies and a data-driven corporate culture.

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11.04.2024
Title: HR analytics between ambition and reality
Authors:
Marius Gerber
Prof. Dr. Marius Gerber ZHAW School of Management and Law
Andreas Krause
Andreas Krause FHNW School of Applied Psychology
Jonas Probst
Jonas Probst Swiss HR Analytics
Michael Heimann
Michael Heimann ZHAW School of Management and Law
Abstract:

This exploratory study by Swiss HR Analytics examines the reasons for the limited use of HR analytics in corporate practice to date. Based on a preliminary study, qualitative interviews were conducted with 14 Swiss companies of different sectors and sizes in order to identify key hurdles in the implementation and impact of HR analytics. The results show that the degree of maturity and impact are strongly influenced by the professional background of those responsible, an often fragmented work organisation and technological interface problems. Although artificial intelligence is seen as a potential lever for increasing efficiency, it has hardly been utilised to date. In addition, there is often a lack of clear responsibilities for the implementation of measures and a systematic impact evaluation. Five in-depth case studies illustrate possible success factors and best practices. The study concludes with practical recommendations for organisations that want to make more targeted use of HR analytics and sustainably increase their added value. Key starting points are a broader skills mix, strategically anchored use cases, integrated technologies and a data-driven corporate culture.

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01.03.2023
Title: Improving data quality and effectiveness: HR Analytics in Switzerland
Authors:
Marius Gerber
Prof. Dr. Marius Gerber ZHAW School of Management and Law
Andreas Krause
Andreas Krause FHNW School of Applied Psychology
Jonas Probst
Jonas Probst Swiss HR Analytics
Abstract:

This study by the non-profit organisation Swiss HR Analytics (SHRA), which was conducted in collaboration with the ZHAW School of Management and Law and the FHNW School of Applied Psychology, examines the current status of the use of HR analytics in Swiss companies. The study is based on a quantitative survey of 133 predominantly large companies. The results show that HR analytics is primarily used at a descriptive and diagnostic level. This poses particular challenges in terms of data quality, the integration of different data sources and the implementation of analytical findings. Although the strategic benefits of HR analytics are recognised, there is a clear gap between the intended goals and the actual added value realised. Only around half of the companies derive measures from the analyses, and even fewer systematically evaluate their impact. The study concludes that in order to realise the full potential of HR analytics, the database must be improved, competencies strengthened and a clear link to business-relevant key figures created. On this basis, practice-orientated recommendations for a more effective establishment of HR analytics are derived.

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