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January 29, 2016

How Gamification Software and HR Are Integrating Today

By Malcolm Rowlings, Contributing Writer

Over the past few years, some techniques and tools utilized by human resource personnel have changed or have been modified to embrace a shift in society thoughts, ideas, and innovations concerning the best ways to engage people at work and improve their job satisfaction level.



One of the biggest changes regarding HR in recent years has been the use of computer technology to assist with HR related job responsibilities. The use of technology such as HR software provides HR personnel with various tools that can be used to help them work more efficiently and more productively.

What is gamification software?

In addition, one type of software that has made a significant impact on the HR field is gamification software. This software can be used on the customer or employee side of the spectrum. While the concept and use of gamification software has lost some of its appeal over the years, the concept behind gamification is still included in some popular HR software applications.

In general, the concept of gamification involves including game related elements with non-game situations. The primary purpose behind the use of gamification is to get employees more engaged with their work, which ultimately will improve employee productivity and efficiency.

Ways to use gamification software

The use of gamification can benefit any organization because the concept works across all types of organizations. The level of success regarding the use of gamification largely depends on how HR departments and HR staff utilize their HR software with the gamification concept.

Human resource personnel should approach gamification from the perspective of what is the best approach for their particular organization. What works well in one organization may not work as well in another organization. There may be a need to modify certain gamification efforts to reach the desired results.

Gamification software utilization tips

There are a variety of ways that HR can integrate the gamification software, concept and benefits into their organization’s efforts and software. Below are a few tips on how organizations can integrate gamification.

1. Professional development training courses

For many employees, professional development training courses are a necessary evil that must be done from time to time. However, the use of gamification with training courses by adding training status bars and a reward has helped some HR departments improve participation and excitement regarding their training courses.

2. Employee wellness programs

Many people know that a healthy person tends to miss fewer workdays because of health related problems. One of the best ways to improve health is to exercise. Therefore, many HR departments support employee wellness programs, but getting people to exercise can be difficult. The use of gamification elements such as acknowledging top exercise participants and giving awards for meeting exercise goals has helped many HR departments

3. Employee surveys

At some time doing their work life, most people have been asked to complete employee surveys. While the need for the information concerning the surveys can be very useful for HR departments, employees tend to dread the thought of having to complete the surveys because the surveys can be long and time consuming. Therefore, the use of gamification elements to encourage survey participation can be included to engage employees for better results.

4. Peer recognition systems

Most people enjoy recognition. The excitement that people get from being recognized tends to make them want to do more to get additional recognition. This is a popular way that HR uses to engage employees through peer recognition systems. Human resource personnel use gamification elements to highlight employee achievements and allow other employees to recognize and congratulate the employees.

Human resources departments and HR personnel are responsible for providing services and support for employees along with such tasks as keeping employees engaged. In addition, an organizational environment that offers an inviting atmosphere where people enjoy their work and want to do well is a big plus for any organization. Gamification is a tool that can help engage employees, but HR must use it in a manner that will provide the desired results.

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