Human resources transformation through implementing new technology systems was always about automating routine transactions and freeing up staff for more value-added work. Indeed, automation produced hard quantifiable savings.

“You can save 30 per cent of operating costs of the human resources function by implementing a standard HRS system from Oracle, PeopleSoft or SAP,” says Howard McMinn, partner in human capital at Deloitte, the professional services firm. This comes from reducing software administration and maintenance costs, lowering headcount and better deals with learning and recruitment suppliers.