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.
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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.
Here are detailed answers to the most frequently asked questions about accreditation:
What is an accreditation vs a certification?A certification, like the credentials that HR professionals earn from HRCI, is a voluntary process ― much like earning a license ― by which a non-governmental entity grants a time-limited recognition and use of a credential to a professional who can verify that they have met predetermined and standardized criteria. (Read more about certifications vs. certificates.) To earn an HRCI professional credential, for example, candidates and must demonstrate experience, education and pass an exam that measures knowledge and practice-based experience.
Accreditation standards ensure that a credentialing body, such as HRCI, demonstrate it has met the stringent standards of the credentialing community to represent the competencies of a profession. Such third-party oversight provides the certification with impartial credibility and legitimacy. (Read more about accreditation.)
The National Commission for Certifying Agencies (NCCA), the accreditation body of the Institute of Credentialing Excellence (ICE), is a top standard for the accreditation of professional certifications, including the monitoring of programs to enforce continuous compliance.
NCCA is an independent non-governmental agency that accredits more than 300 certification programs (see the NCCA directory. In addition to rigorous review of test and program fairness, NCCA and its 12-member commission puts stringent standards in place to ensure the health, safety and welfare of the general public.
Are there other program-wide accreditations?
In addition to NCCA, ISO 17024 is a well-known international standard for accreditation. Many people are familiar with ISO (International Organization for Standardization) as part of the American National Standards Institute (ANSI). ISO has more than 21,000 standards covering almost all aspects of technology and business.
ICE now allows organizations to apply for dual accreditation under NCCA and ISO 17024. HRCI is seeking both accreditations for its newest international credentials, the PHRi™ and SPHRi™.
Which HRCI credentials are accredited?
Just like market-leading HRCI certifications, NCCA and ISO 17024 accreditations are earned, not given. The rigorous review and accreditation process takes time and commitment. Credential programs must also be market mature to apply for accreditation. Of the HRCI suite of seven credentials, four are now accredited by NCCA: the PHR®, PHRca®, SPHR® and GPHR®. As mentioned above, HRCI hopes to meet all requirements and achieve certification for the PHRi and SPHRi in 2017.
The new aPHR™, a certification, which demonstrates foundational knowledge for those who are just starting out in HR, was introduced in 2016. HRCI plans to submit the aPHR for NCCA accreditation in 2017.
How do credentialed HR professionals benefit from having their credentials accredited?
Accreditation is an important investment. Meeting the most rigorous accreditation standards is difficult, but highly rewarding for the entire HRCI community. Accreditation directly benefits HRCI credential holders, who can be certain they possess the most trusted and recognized HR credentials in the world.
Again, keep in mind that NCCA and ISO 17024 accredits the entire program, not just the test. This program-wide accreditation assures that a credential is not only valid, but trustworthy across all cases (i.e., Does a credential earned in one country demonstrate the same knowledge and/or practice-based experience for the same credential earned in another country?).
What are the benefits of accreditation to businesses?
Organizations turn to accredited certifications to gain confidence when hiring, promoting and making other personnel decisions. Accredited certifications provide third-party certainty that credentialed professionals have the competencies necessary to perform the essential functions of a job.
When an entire certification program is accredited, companies have a way to answer the question: “Who reviewed the certification program?” This is a question, according to ICE, that is often posed by professionals, employers and sometimes the courts.
How can I be sure a certification program is backed by a reputable accreditation body?
Whatever certification or continuous learning program you consider, look past the glitzy marketing and advertising claims. It’s vital to know whether the program has received the backing of a reputable, third-party accreditation standards known for its rigor and excellence.
What to look for:
How does the SHRM accreditation of its HR credentials differ?
The entire suite of HRCI certification programs, not just the tests, are designed to meet the rigorous accreditation standards – from NCCA or ISO 17024. The comprehensive accreditation standards that HRCI strives to meet are an important reason why HRCI credentials have earned the most respect, trust and recognition among HR practitioners and the organizations they serve.