The HRCI Research Hub brings together original studies, workforce polling, reports, and expert analysis, so you can act on what's happening now and prepare for what's next.
The State of HR Featured ReportsRecovery as a Workforce Strategy
Drawing on HRCI research, workforce data, and expert insight, this report examines the workplace impact of substance use disorder and the practical steps HR can take to strengthen culture, manager readiness, benefits, policies, and recovery support.
.png?sfvrsn=19b9ec76_1)
Original research and expert analysis on the issues shaping HR today, from workforce safety and emerging technology to DEI and employee well-being.
From return-to-office decisions and hybrid work to contractors and other non-traditional workers, this HRCI report explores the latest research and how HR can use data to make more informed, evidence-based workplace decisions.
From career paths to culture, this research identifies what actually separates HR professionals who are just getting by from those who are truly fulfilled—and what leaders can do to close that gap and build a more committed team.
This research uncovers where professional development is falling short, from misaligned training priorities to gaps in AI readiness, and what it takes to build a workforce equipped for what's next.
From bullying, political tension to substance use and violence prevention, this research covers workplace safety—what the data reveals, what's at stake, and what you can do to reduce risk and build a more resilient organization.
The State of HR
Based on HRCI’s survey of thousands of HR professionals, the State of HR report examines the issues defining the profession today. From AI and workplace culture to talent, leadership, and career growth, the report reveals how HR teams are adapting to change and preparing for the future. Explore the data, trends, and insights shaping the world of work below.
Download the Full ReportState of HR Spotlight Reports
Half of HR professionals work in environments marked by polarized viewpoints, and 4 in 10 describe their stress as extreme or high. Find out what the data reveals about conflict, mental health, and what it means for your organization.
HR professionals are broadly optimistic about their field — but over 4 in 10 are considering careers outside of it. Explore what's driving both the enthusiasm and the tension, and what it takes to build a team of true HR believers.
71% of HR professionals use AI regularly, yet more than half say implementing new technology is the area they feel least prepared to handle. See where the preparation gap is widest and what needs to change now.
83% of HR professionals believe remote work benefits organizations—but the debate is far from settled. Get the data on where HR stands on flexibility, productivity, and the return-to-office conversation.
More Insights for HR Professionals
Explore the issues shaping HR today and get the data you need to lead with confidence, make informed decisions, and move the profession forward.
Recovery friendly workplaces reduce absenteeism, improve retention, and strengthen workplace culture—yet most organizations haven't made meaningful progress. This HRCI and Fors Marsh research reveals why: stigma, undertrained HR teams, and weak leadership buy-in top the list. Understand where the gaps are and what organizations that get it right do differently.
Earning an HRCI certification builds earning power. Within four years, the median HRCI certificant earns 33% more than they did before getting certified. That's double the salary growth of comparable HR professionals over the same period. See what the data shows about the career and financial impact of HRCI certification.
HR is ready to lead, but is the organization ready to let it? This 2024 HRCI and MindEdge research report surfaces a striking disconnect: while 88% of HR professionals believe HR should drive business strategy, only half say leadership agrees. Add in underfunding, understaffing, and persistent burnout, and the case for rethinking HR's role has never been stronger.
AI is reshaping the workplace, and HR professionals are watching closely. This HRCI and MindEdge survey of HR practitioners reveals how the profession is navigating AI adoption, persistent burnout, rising turnover, and the evolving push and pull of remote work. Find out where your peers stand, and what the data means for the work you do every day.
Browse our complete library of research reports, guides, and frameworks. Whether you're building a business case, navigating a workforce challenge, or staying ahead of what's next, the intelligence you need is here.
From rising absenteeism to safety risks, HRCI research reveals how extreme weather is reshaping workforce management and what HR can do now.
Over three-quarters of HR professionals use AI weekly, but most have had little to no training. Learn how to build real confidence and capability starting today.
Explore how HR can turn AI adoption into a strategic advantage—balancing innovation with ethical responsibility.
This research-backed guide gives HR professionals the data and practical steps to build a recovery-friendly culture that reduces risk and supports your people.
The report explores the realities of managing DEI programs in today’s climate—where values alignment, stakeholder trust, and business performance are all on the line.
This report provides critical insights and actionable strategies for HR leaders to foster a more harmonious and productive work environment.
HRCI webinars go beyond the basics. Each session unpacks the trends, data, and real-world strategies HR professionals need to lead with confidence today and adapt to what's coming next.
News and perspectives on the issues driving the HR profession forward.
We’ve witnessed a lot of change in 2020. Whether navigating new laws and compliance or establishing infrastructure for remote work, your organization probably looks different than it did even six months ago. With so many changes happening at such a rapid pace, you need human resources technology that supports integration, automation and agility.
“If your current tech stack isn’t offering those kinds of features and functionality, that’s the time to switch,” suggests Muthu Hanu, SPHR, digital HR advisor at Leapgen. You need an HR tech vendor who can carry your workforce through rapid change.
In 2020’s final quarter, it’s time to evaluate what direction your organization is taking next and whether your current HR tech stack can get you there. Here are some critical clues that it’s time for you to swap out HR tech vendors.
You need an HR tech vendor that can bring together data from across the organization, Hanu says. If your compensation and performance management systems are siloed, for example, you can’t get a complete picture of how the two relate.
Integrative capacities speed up the technology adoption process, too. “When you realize that technology doesn't work with this technology, what you thought you could accomplish in six months is going to take you another year,” says Linda Rubino, SPHR, HR business partner at Experience Projects Contracting. “Everything has to be parallel.” Technology integration is critical for data management during HR transformations and for your workforce analytics going forward.
To work through change, HR needs to prioritize value-adding strategic functions. If manual data entry is occupying too much time, it might be time to switch vendors. “You employ people to conduct value-adding tasks,” Hanu says. “When they’re manually entering projections, that value add is gone.” Find a tech vendor that supports automation of low-touch tasks so you and your team can spend more time supporting strategic organizational goals.
Additionally, many tasks can now be handled by employees themselves via access to an online portal. Look for vendors that offer mobile-friendly interfaces so employees can manage their pay and benefits — for example, changing health insurance for a qualifying event — at their convenience. You want to offer a tool with a good user experience. Automation and empowering employees to manage low-touch tasks will free up time for HR to address big-picture organizational changes.
The pace of change is faster than ever, and it’s only going to pick up from here. Does your current tech stack support workforce agility? If not, it might be time to look for a vendor who provides quick customer service and is responsive and adaptable in the face of change, Hanu suggests. You may not know whether your workforce will remain remote or adopt a hybrid model. You need HR technology that can support either option as your processes evolve.
Agile technology also helps you realize your investment much faster because vendors historically integrate technology in phases. Look for a vendor offering real-time configuration capabilities and incorporate agile principles during your own adoption phase.