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Module Code - Title:

PM4097 - DIGITALISATION, DATA AND HR

Year Last Offered:

N/A

Hours Per Week:

Lecture

2

Lab

1

Tutorial

0

Other

0

Private

7

Credits

6

Grading Type:

N

Prerequisite Modules:

Rationale and Purpose of the Module:

This module explores both established and emerging practices in Human Resource Analytics (HRA). It equips students to collect, analyse and apply people-related data from internal and external sources to support evidence-based and strategic HR decisions. Alongside core analytical concepts, students will develop the professional and transferable skills needed in a digital workplace where technology, data and sustainability increasingly shape how organisations attract, manage and support their workforce. Throughout the module, students will examine how HRA can contribute to organisational performance and responsible people management, with particular attention to ethical data use, workforce wellbeing and long-term sustainability goals. The module also considers how HR analytics tools and insights can help organisations build more inclusive, resilient and environmentally conscious practices in a rapidly changing business context.

Syllabus:

The module provides an introduction to Human Resource Analytics and the principles of evidence-based decision-making across key HR dimensions, including governance, stakeholder management and methodological approaches. It examines the technical and professional skills required for HRA, along with the technologies that enable the collection and analysis of people-related data. Students will explore common data sources and consider how workforce experiences and business outcomes can be evaluated through analytics. Attention is given to data privacy, ethics and GDPR, as well as methods for measuring organisational climate, engagement and employee attitudes. The module then applies HRA to practical HR challenges, such as data-driven recruitment and selection processes, and performance management systems. In doing so, students will also reflect on how people analytics can contribute to broader organisational priorities, including long-term resilience, responsible leadership and sustainable working practices.

Learning Outcomes:

Cognitive (Knowledge, Understanding, Application, Analysis, Evaluation, Synthesis)

On successful completion of this module, students will be able to: Critically evaluate how HR decisions influence organisational performance and workforce outcomes, recognising their wider strategic, operational and financial implications. Assess and justify the use of evidence-based approaches to address HR and organisational challenges, drawing on scientific research, organisational data and relevant external sources. Analyse the role of digital technologies, data systems and analytical methodologies in supporting effective HR decision-making. Interpret and apply analytical tools to examine HR datasets and generate informed, practical solutions to people-related issues. Present and articulate data-driven insights that inform HR policy and influence organisational decision-making, with consideration for responsible, ethical and sustainable management practice.

Affective (Attitudes and Values)

On successful completion of this module, students will be able to: Develop an appreciation for the role of ethical, transparent and responsible data use in shaping fair and effective people management practices. Demonstrate openness to evidence-based thinking and digital innovation as a means of improving organisational decision-making and workforce experiences. Value the contribution of HR analytics in promoting inclusive, resilient and sustainable organisational cultures and long-term people strategies.

Psychomotor (Physical Skills)

N/A

How the Module will be Taught and what will be the Learning Experiences of the Students:

The module is taught through a blend of lectures, interactive labs, case analyses and hands-on exercises using HR analytics tools and datasets. This provides students with opportunities to engage in active, inquiry-based learning and problem-solving tailored to contemporary HR challenges. Recent developments in Human Resource Analytics—such as advances in digital HR systems, people analytics methodologies, data ethics, and evidence-based HR research—are integrated into the module through academic literature, industry reports and real-world organisational examples. Students are encouraged to critically examine how people data informs strategic decision-making, workforce planning and performance management within modern organisations.

Prime Texts:

Ferrar, J., Green, D. (2021) Excellence in People Analytics : How to Use Workforce Data to Create Business Value , Kogan Page Limited
Marr, B (2018) Data Driven HR , Kogan Page

Other Relevant Texts:

Edwards, M. R., and Edwards, K. (2016) Predictive HR Analytics: Mastering the HR Metric , Kogan Page
Khan, N., and Millner, D. (2020) Introduction to People Analytics: A Practical Guide to Data-Driven HR , Kogan Page

Programme(s) in which this Module is Offered:

BACHELOR OF BUSINESS STUDIES
BACHELOR OF BUSINESS STUDIES WITH FRENCH
BACHELOR OF BUSINESS STUDIES WITH GERMAN
BACHELOR OF BUSINESS STUDIES WITH JAPANESE
BACHELOR OF BUSINESS STUDIES WITH SPANISH

Semester(s) Module is Offered:

Autumn

Module Leader:

Andreea.Corbeanu@ul.ie