Digital transformation in human resources management and the strategic role of communication

Technology, globalization, demographics of the world's population, economy, and new ways of working cause changes in today's working life. The human resources unit, which acts as a bridge between management and employees and is responsible for the regulations regarding the employee life cycle, has a strategic role in implementing and impacting these changes. The main purpose of this research is to reveal the digital transformation in the basic functions of human resources management based on the opinions of human resources experts working in organizations in different sectors. To this end, fast service, automotive, apparel, logistics, holding, consultancy, training consultancy, technology, energy, banking, medical, textile, coffee, e-commerce, software, packaging, airline, fast consumption, information technologies, glass packaging, production and 30 participants who work in human resources positions in different fields such as cosmetics were interviewed. The data obtained from these interviews was supported by participating in human resources activities where the participants shared their experiences. In this context, the data obtained in the research are the characteristics of the participants and sectors; definitions of digital transformation, and applications of HR functions; The role of communication in HR practices have been classified and interpreted in themes. The literature and the participants' opinions draw attention to the importance of using this paradigm shift in the context of technological, conceptual, and HR analytics, not for the dehumanization of work but for the humanization of work. However, how organizations adopt these practices and their speed raises the possibility that there may be deficiencies in evaluating the results and effects of the practices. Therefore, sharing these practices, discussing them, and investigating their effects is very important in terms of organizations' working life and sustainability.