Buying HR Tech in the Age of AI: A Comprehensive Guide to Buying HR Technology and Implementation Services

In the age of AI, HR technology has never been more powerful or more complex. With a growing number of vendors offering cutting-edge solutions, choosing the right one has become increasingly difficult. The potential rewards are great, but so are the risks. A poor decision in HR tech can result in costly implementations, operational disruptions, and missed opportunities that could impact your organisation for years. "How hard can buying some software and implementation services be?" Much easier with the right guide! Drawing on 30+ years of industry experience, the author offers detailed advice and guidance and introduces the SelectionWise methodology: a comprehensive approach guiding large organisations (500+ employees) through the critical early stage (Phase 0) of HR tech procurement and implementation partner selection. Whether you're evaluating major HRMS vendors like Workday, SuccessFactors, and Oracle, or searching for specialised solutions in learning, recruiting, or talent intelligence, this book offers essential insights to help you: Align your HR technology project with the organisation's overall strategy Bring stakeholders together and set realistic expectations Take a user-centric approach to drive adoption and create exceptional employee experiences Make informed software vendor choices without getting bogged down in analysis paralysis Select the right implementation partner to help maximise the value from your technology investment Negotiate the optimal commercial deal with vendors Avoid common and costly early mistakes that often derail large-scale HR tech projects before they start Increase the likelihood of project success This book is an indispensable resource for anyone buying HR technology within a large organisation (500+ employees). It provides insights, advice and an adaptable approach to help you navigate the complexities of HR tech buying in today's fast-changing landscape. What Industry Leaders Are Saying: "'Buying HR Tech in the Age of AI' is more than a book—it's a masterclass in ensuring your HR technology investments deliver real value. From Phase Zero, where you learn to fall in love with the problem and align stakeholders through design thinking, to implementing solutions that prioritise experience and change management, this guide is a roadmap to success." - Richard McColl, Chief HR Operations Officer, Kraft Heinz "Finally, a comprehensive guide that understands the real challenges HR and IT leaders face when selecting and implementing HR technology in a large organisation. This book goes beyond typical software selection advice to cover essential areas like negotiation strategies, implementation partner selection, and value-based decision-making." - Arlene Stokes, Chief People Officer, Aegon UK "Congratulations must go to James on writing such a thorough, thoughtful, and in-depth guide on buying HR tech! Anyone who is embarking on the journey to select, research, or implement HR tech should read it and will benefit greatly from all the useful information, helpful tools, and detailed explanations." Kathi Enderes, SVP Research & Global Industry Analyst, The Josh Bersin Company “James Hatton’s Buying HR Tech in the Age of AI is a clear, practical, and actionable handbook to navigating the labyrinth of HR technology procurement. In an era where AI is reshaping the landscape, Hatton provides a precise and methodical approach to help you avoid costly missteps and focus on solving the right problems from the start. Essential reading for anyone tasked with making high-stakes decisions in a complex and evolving market.” Greg Orme, Speaker and Author of the Business Book of The Year: The Human Edge