Discover the crucial role online benefits solutions play in the digital transformation of HR for a distributed workforce.
The digital age has ushered in a new era of work, where remote and hybrid workforces have become increasingly prevalent. With advancements in technology and the increasing need for flexibility, more companies are embracing remote work arrangements. According to recent statistics, 16% of companies worldwide are fully remote, and a staggering 83% of the global workforce considers hybrid work ideal (1). Further, 55% of employees in 2022 say that a flexible work schedule, including the ability to work remotely, is a “must have” when considering new jobs, compared to only 37% in 2020 (2).
This shift towards remote and hybrid workforces has significant implications for Human Resources (HR) departments. Traditional HR practices that relied heavily on in-person interactions and paper-based processes are no longer sustainable. HR professionals must adapt to this new reality by leveraging online solutions to effectively manage a distributed workforce.
Despite the increase of return-to-office (RTO) seen so far in 2025, remote and hybrid work will continue to play a role in the digital transformation left by the wake of the pandemic, and modern companies need to be prepared to adapt HR practices to fit the new technological landscape. According to Gallup, half of full-time U.S. workers hold jobs that can be performed remotely (3). Of those roles, 26% are fully remote, 55% have a hybrid schedule, and 19% work on-site in 2025 (4). Additionally, the survey found that fully remote and hybrid employees have "significantly higher employee engagement" as compared to their fully in-person peers (3).
The digital age has revolutionized every aspect of our lives, including the way we work. As companies embrace digital transformation, HR departments must also evolve to keep pace with the changing landscape. Adapting HR practices to the digital age involves leveraging technology to streamline processes, improve efficiency, and enhance employee experience.
By embracing online solutions, HR professionals can automate manual tasks such as employee onboarding, time off, and benefit management. This not only saves time and resources but also ensures data accuracy and compliance. Additionally, digital HR platforms enable HR teams to provide self-service options to employees, empowering them to access information and complete tasks independently.
Moreover, online solutions facilitate effective communication and collaboration among a distributed workforce. With tools like video conferencing, instant messaging, and project management platforms, HR professionals can foster a sense of connectedness and engagement among employees, regardless of their physical location.
These tools also provide an alternative benefit options for employers that are unable to offer as much flexibility in terms of schedule or location. For example, online wellness programs or access to a wider array of benefits on a platform such as BenefitHub can compensate for a perceived lack of flexibility.
Employee rewards and recognition programs play a crucial role in boosting employee morale, motivation, and productivity. In a distributed workforce, it becomes even more important to ensure that these programs are accessible and visible to all employees. This is where online platforms especially come into play.
By leveraging employee rewards software or an employee recognition app, HR professionals can move their rewards and recognition programs virtually. These online platforms provide a centralized hub for employees to access and redeem rewards, view recognition from colleagues, and celebrate milestones. With just a few clicks, employees can feel valued and appreciated, regardless of their physical location.
Furthermore, online platforms enable HR professionals to track and analyze employee engagement and performance data. This valuable insight can help identify top performers, areas for improvement, and trends within the workforce, allowing HR to make data-driven decisions when it comes to rewards and recognition initiatives.
BenefitHub is one such provider that offers a digital rewards and recognition platform - check it out!
Implementing employee rewards software or recognition apps offer numerous benefits for both HR professionals and employees. These digital tools streamline the rewards and recognition process, making it more efficient and scalable.
For HR professionals, employee rewards software and recognition apps provide a centralized platform to manage and administer rewards programs. This eliminates the need for manual tracking and paperwork, saving time and resources. Additionally, these tools offer real-time data and analytics, allowing HR to gain insights into employee engagement and program effectiveness.
For employees, these online platforms enhance visibility and accessibility to rewards and recognition. Employees can easily view their earned rewards, redeem them at their convenience, and showcase their achievements to their peers. This fosters a culture of appreciation and motivation, even in a distributed workforce.
Overall, employee rewards software and recognition apps simplify the rewards and recognition process, improve employee experience, and contribute to a positive work culture.
One example of an online platform that can be used for employee rewards, benefits, and recognition is BenefitHub. BenefitHub offers a comprehensive solution for companies looking to enhance their employee experience and engagement.
With BenefitHub, employees can access a wide range of discounts, benefits, and rewards through a single platform. This includes exclusive deals on shopping, travel, entertainment, wellness programs, and more. The platform also provides tools for employee recognition, allowing colleagues to acknowledge and celebrate each other's achievements. 86% of employees who use BenefitHub say we are an important part of their benefits package.
From an HR perspective, BenefitHub offers a user-friendly interface for managing employee rewards and benefits. HR professionals can easily customize the platform to align with their company's branding and culture. The platform also provides analytics and reporting features, enabling HR to track program engagement, measure ROI, and make data-driven decisions.
By leveraging BenefitHub or similar online platforms, HR professionals can create a positive employee experience, boost engagement, and improve overall workforce satisfaction no matter where your workforce spends their workday.
Sources:
(1): "Remote Work Statistics: 50+ Key Facts to Know in 2024"
(2): Metlife's 20th Annual U.S. Employee Benefit Trends Study 2022
(3): "What's the status of remote work in 2025?"
(4): Gallup, Indicators: Hybrid Work