Human resources managers, how do you balance compliance with innovation in your HR policies and procedures?

Question

Navigating the tightrope between adherence to regulations and fostering innovation is a challenge for any HR department. We've gathered insights from a Recruitment Team Lead and Senior Human Resources Managers, among others, to bring you five expert strategies. From incorporating flexibility within compliance frameworks to leveraging data integration for efficiency, discover how these professionals balance the scales.

Ana Alipat · Answer

Balancing Compliance with Innovation in HR Policies:
1. Stay Informed: We keep up to date with regulatory changes to ensure our policies are compliant while leaving room for innovation.2. Risk Assessment: Evaluate the risks and benefits of innovative ideas to ensure they don't compromise compliance.3. Flexible Frameworks: Develop policies with flexible frameworks that allow for creative approaches within legal boundaries.4. Employee Involvement: Encourage employee feedback to foster innovative ideas while ensuring compliance needs are met.5. Pilot Programs: Test new ideas with pilot programs to assess their impact before full implementation.
Example: We introduced a flexible work policy that allowed remote work while ensuring data security compliance. We started with a pilot program, gathering feedback and making adjustments. This approach ensured we maintained compliance and fostered a more innovative, employee-friendly work environment.
Outcome: By balancing compliance with innovation, we created policies that are both legally sound and adaptable to modern workplace needs, enhancing employee satisfaction and productivity.

Dave Rietsema · Answer

I think it's important to find or build your own compliance calendar and continue to subscribe to HR newsletters to stay on top of changing legislation. It's an easy way to keep the news top-of-mind while handling the day-to-day. I've also found it's helpful to build in time quarterly to discuss any changes in compliance that will need planning and adjustment in HR operations.

Bryan Driscoll · Answer

Balancing compliance with innovation in HR policies requires a strategic approach. Compliance ensures legal safety and fairness, but it shouldn't stifle creativity. We implement flexible frameworks that meet legal standards while encouraging new ideas. Regular training keeps the team updated on compliance, freeing them to innovate within safe boundaries. Leveraging technology streamlines compliance tasks, allowing more focus on innovative HR practices. Encouraging open communication helps identify potential compliance risks early, ensuring they don't hinder innovative solutions.

Forrest Holloman · Answer

HR policies aren’t meant to be all-encompassing. Policies should be viewed like the many laws that govern our country. Like laws, you cannot think of every possible scenario by which someone may disregard the expected values of your company. For that reason, every company should work hard to provide a set of core values and a code of conduct that gets at the core of any company’s expected conduct by employees. In this way, ambiguity works to the advantage of the company.

Yan Courtois · Answer

Data integration is your go-to for keeping up with the fast-moving world of HR tech. Automate repetitive tasks, like double-data entry between HR apps, and free up valuable time to explore new tools and stay ahead of the curve. HR departments typically save 20-40 hours a month with data integration. That makes a difference! Your team feels supported and valued every step of the way. When you let data integration do the heavy lifting, the pace of change won’t overwhelm you.

How Do You Balance Compliance With Innovation in HR Policies?

How Do You Balance Compliance With Innovation in HR Policies?

Incorporate Flexibility Within Compliance

Utilize a Compliance Calendar

Strategize for Compliance and Creativity

Set Core Values and Conduct Codes

Leverage Data Integration for Efficiency