Exploring the Influence of Electronic Human Resource Management on the Role of Human Resource Function in a Developing Country, Pakistan

Abstract

With technological primacy the influence of information technology has evolved Human Resource management to Electronic Human Resource Management (e-HRM). The aim of this study to explore the purpose of implementing e-HRM, its opportunities and challenges and its influence on the role of HR’s function in the organizations of a developing country, Pakistan. Qualitative research methodology was adopted, and semi structured interviews were. This study revealed that organizations have several purposes for which they implement e-HRM including, meeting the needs of organization, achieving sequential objectives (operational, relational & transformational), and surviving in the competitive environment, The study also found that e HRM has certain challenges and opportunities. The process of implementing e-HRM itself is challenge and involves decisions that are crucial. Stakeholder support is an additional challenge and sustaining the e-HRM in another. E-HRM offers many opportunities as well. Rightsizing is and quality of service are the ones revealed by this study. Lastly, the study revealed that e-HRM has influenced the role of HR. Although HR still performs all three roles (administrative, managerial, and strategic) to some extent, they fall more between managerial and strategic now. This study contributes to academia by providing a context specific study. It contributes practically as well as it is providing detailed study on e-HRM which can be used as a framework while implementing e-HRM.