HR departments are more likely to be perceived as having inadequate
procedures for handling data than other areas of the business, according to
research.
A survey of 100 medium and large organisations reveals that almost half
identify their HR function as likely to be the most backward department in
terms of data analysis.
The study shows a quarter of respondents highlight finance as the next most
likely area to lack these skills and IT as most likely to manage data
effectively.
Graham Walter, managing director of Cognos, which carried out the research,
said: "It is alarming to see that HR has the worst reputation – after all,
it is responsible for professional development of staff.
"If poor decisions are being made because the department isn’t making
the most of data analysis tools, it will impact on the entire enterprise."
Eight out of 10 UK companies admit they make business-critical decisions
without access to all the information they need.
The study also reveals 84 per cent of organisations rate improving the
efficiency of managing vital data as a priority for 2002.
Seven out of 10 respondents think a central database and information
analysis solution would be of most benefit to their organisation, compared to
only 9 per who cite data security.
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Walter said: "Companies hold a great deal of potentially valuable data
at every level, but it’s absolutely worthless if you can’t analyse or interpret
it efficiently.
"Companies which appreciate that being mediocre isn’t good enough and
take action will survive the market conditions."
