Cloud technology has transformed the way businesses use and store data. From web-based email to social media, most of us use it on a daily basis without a second thought. At the same time, more and more companies are actively seeking cloud-based solutions for the most crucial areas of business – increasingly recognising it as the key to efficiency.

One of the biggest advantages of cloud computing is the centralisation of data. For businesses, this means flawless organisation and ease of access – and admin-heavy departments stand to benefit the most. For HR operations in particular, nothing makes more sense than having all employee data in one single location.

In fact, when it comes to talent management, the benefits run much deeper than merely reducing paperwork; cloud-based HR software has the potential to completely transform company culture.

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Creates a level playing field

HR is as much about processes as it is about people, and a consistent approach is absolutely key. For global businesses with multiple locations, this can be extremely challenging – especially where an agile workforce is concerned. In fact, as more and more companies rely on a mixture of both in-house and external talent, setting company-wide standards is increasingly important.

With the cloud, HR managers have a unique opportunity to create a level playing field – regardless of office location or employee type. From performance metrics that apply to all, to structured training and salary schemes, cloud-based HR software enables every aspect of employee management to be centralised. Establishing universal benchmarks ensures that everyone is working within the same framework – a crucial step towards building a cohesive, collaborative culture.

Streamlines the recruitment process

One of the most important HR functions is of course recruitment, and cloud technology can optimise this process in a number of ways. The traditional process of sourcing, interviewing and eventually hiring new talent is notoriously arduous – with plenty of to-ing and fro-ing between departments.

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With a cloud-based software solution, this can be entirely streamlined. A single, dedicated platform facilitates participation from all sides, making it easy for managers to view candidate applications and provide feedback – all at their own convenience.

This not only speeds up internal operations, but also ensures a swift turnaround for the applicants themselves. Recruitment is a two-way street, and an inefficient process that leaves candidates waiting conveys a poor company image. Companies who want to attract the best talent need to be fast and competitive – and cloud-based HR may give you the edge.</p>

Boosts employee engagement

Transparency has been identified as one of the most important factors when it comes to employment happiness, and this is exactly what cloud-based HR can help to achieve.

Transparency is only possible through open communication; however, in larger companies, maintaining an employee-manager dialogue can be extremely difficult. This is where agile, cloud-based solutions prove invaluable – especially when it comes to feedback.

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One example is real-time talent review apps offered by companies like Talentsoft, which enable managers to easily identify individual employees, create well-informed talent development plans and provide ongoing feedback. Rather than waiting for scheduled reviews, employees and managers alike have a dedicated platform through which ongoing communication can be fostered.

For employees, this means greater transparency and motivation; for managers, this means a more engaged workforce with increased productivity. Effective employee management is crucial for hiring, nurturing and retaining the very best talent.

With cloud-based solutions, HR managers can turn company goals and values into trackable, actionable metrics whilst creating a more collaborative environment for all. Read more about how the cloud is transforming businesses.