If you have any interest in HCM Technology, chances are you are in Vegas this week attending The HR Technology Conference. If you have not attended in the past, it is one of the most exciting and dynamic three days in this industry. And, so far, this year does not disappoint. Analytics, engagement and recruitment technology are a few of the major themes we have observed on this first day and I’m sure we will continue to revisit these trends throughout the rest of our time in Vegas. The Brandon Hall Group team has been busy meeting with solution providers, attending sessions, presenting on panels and walking the Expo Hall.
Here are a few of our favorite highlights from Day 2.
- The Modern CHRO: A Conversation with Today’s HR and Business Leaders panel: This session hosted by Brandon Hall Group’s VP and Principal Analyst, Trish McFarlane, addressed the changing role of today’s CHRO. Panelists (including Ashley Goldsmith, SVP and CHRO, Workday; Sara Hill, CHRO, Ceridian; Coretha M. Rushing, Chief Human Resources Officer, Equifax Inc; and Laurie Zaucha, VP of HR and Organizational Development, Paychex) discussed how they balance relationships skills with the analytical skills needed to align HR more closely with business needs.
- The Expo Hall: The expo floor is massive and it is the best opportunity to meet both familiar providers as well as startups just entering the market. Often times, the expo is where HR buyers can learn about trends, network with peers and understand the culture of these solution providers. Did I mention the giveaways – cars and vespas?
- Solution Provider Meetings: As a team, we are scheduled to meet with 63 different companies this year and so far, these briefings have been insightful and relevant to the research we have been conducting this year. Most of the recruitment providers are validating the need for an integrated talent acquisition suite. They are talking about new skills and tools to empower recruiters to think like marketers, perform like sales, and engage like business leaders.
- Top Products: Each year, the HR Technology Conference nominates top products that have demonstrated leadership, innovation and customer support. This year’s top products include IBM, Entelo, HireVue, Appcast, Recruitifi, Halogen, Healthcare Impact Associates, match-click, QUESocial, Skillrater.
- The Startup Pavilion: When it comes to HR technology, or any technology for that matter, one of the most important factors in making it work is creating innovative, dynamic approaches to old problems or processes. One place you can find this in action at The HR Technology Conference is in the Startup Pavilion. New to the Expo Hall this year, a designated space to highlight startup vendors is a real step forward in showcasing the trends in human resource technology. We are talking with as many startups as possible at the conference. If you’re heading to the Expo Hall, I encourage you to spend some time with the newest tech companies in our industry. It will be well worth your while.
If you are at the conference this week, we would love to see you! Stop by and say “hi” in the press room or during the expert session on Thursday, October 10 … or send us a note and we can find you! Stay tuned for tomorrow’s Day 3 Wrap-Up.
–Madeline Laurano, VP and Principal Analyst,
Talent Acquisition Practice, Brandon Hall Group
