Human capital plays a crucial role in shaping an organisation’s growth in today’s digital age. It’s the idea generated by the human capital that leads to innovation. Dr A Lakshmana Rao, Associate Professor, Department of Commerce, along with his research scholars Ms Sreya B and Mr Akhil Pasupuleti, conducted a comprehensive study on human resource management in the information technology sector of Kerala. Their research paper titled “Exploring Human Capital’s Role in Driving Sustainable Organisational Development in the Era of Internet of Things” focuses on 320 participants from Kochi Infopark and investigates the impact of the Internet of Things (IoT) on their lives.

Abstract

The Internet of Things (IoT), a network of interconnected devices and sensors linked through the Internet, facilitates the connection between individuals, their devices, and vast amounts of data. Within companies, the human resources department plays a crucial role in managing the pressure generated by various aspects, including marketing, development, and the application of IoT in human resources. This study is motivated by the need to understand the potential of IoT in strategic human resource management practices. To explore the fundamental strategic human resource management practices and assess their mediating effects, this research gathered data from 320 respondents in the Kerala information technology sector, specifically Kochi Infopark, consisting of both lower-level executives and senior managers. The study utilises statistical analysis to examine the relationship between sustainable human resource practices, the Internet of Things, and sustainable human resource growth. Furthermore, the study highlights the IoT’s role as a mediator between strategic human resource management practices and factors contributing to sustainable HR growth, demonstrating a positive impact of independent variables on dependent variables. These findings emphasise the potential for organisations to enhance HR practices, decision-making, and innovation using IoT during crises and uncertainties. Integrating IoT with SHRM empowers organisations to effectively manage challenges and complex environments.

Practical Implementation

a) Employee Monitoring Systems: Implement IoT-enabled employee monitoring systems using sensors and wearable devices. This allows organisations to collect data on employee activities, health, and work environments. Analysing this data helps identify patterns, optimise resource allocation, and enhance overall employee well-being.

b) Talent Management Solutions: Utilise IoT devices to gather data on employee skills, competencies, and training needs. This information is valuable for developing personalised training programs, creating career paths, and strategising succession plans. Integrating IoT into talent management aligns HR practices with evolving workforce needs, leading to improved satisfaction and retention.

c) Remote Work Solutions: In times of crisis, such as the COVID-19 pandemic, leverage IoT-enabled remote work solutions. These solutions facilitate seamless communication, collaboration, and virtual team management. Integrating IoT with HR practices enables organisations to effectively manage remote workforces, maintain employee engagement, and adapt to challenging circumstances.

Social Implications

a) Improved HR Practices: Integrating IoT with HR practices enhances decision-making and fosters innovation. This, in turn, contributes to improved HR practices, ensuring that organisations are equipped to address contemporary challenges and complexities.

b) Employee Well-being: The use of IoT in employee monitoring systems promotes a holistic approach to employee well-being. Organisations can proactively address health and safety concerns, leading to a healthier and more engaged workforce.

c) Skill Development and Career Growth: IoT-driven talent management solutions contribute to individual skill development and career growth. Employees benefit from personalised training programs, creating a positive impact on professional development.

d) Crisis Adaptability: The integration of IoT in remote work solutions demonstrates organisational adaptability during crises. This not only ensures business continuity but also highlights a commitment to employee welfare in challenging situations.

e) Technological Advancement: Embracing IoT showcases an organisation’s commitment to technological advancement. This can enhance the organisation’s image, attracting top talent and positioning it as an industry leader.

Future Research Plans

In their upcoming research endeavours, the trio will focus on unlocking the bottlenecks of IoT-driven remote work dynamics and its influence on collaboration, productivity, and employee well-being in the post-pandemic context. They also plan on exploring the impact of interconnected devices on the moonlighting behaviours of employees and employment trends in IT firms and among professionals.

We wish the trio all success in their future endeavours.