Review the categories of HR responsibilities (see Table 1.1 ).

For any of the categories, write a question that analytics might be able to answer.

Companies are increasingly valuing HR professionals who can analyze data to provide support for business decisions. An understanding of statistics and knowledge about information systems are important technical competencies. But these are relevant only if applied well to the needs of the business. Here are some guidelines for making the connection:
• Communicate formally and informally with people in the organization. Ask open-ended questions, and actively listen to the answers. Identify areas of concern and goals that will deliver important wins.
• Become a student of the organization.
Understand its strategic goals, including the main sources of revenues and expenses. Learn to read II Visit your instructor's Connect® course and access your eBook to view this video.
financia I reports, and read them regularly. Keep up with news about the organization and its industry.
Pay attention to how decisions get made and who wields influence.
• Stay familiar with research in the HR field. When a question or problem arises, be able to call to mind relevant research that suggests a way to address the problem.
Research these initial ideas to build on existing knowledge and avoid chasing after methods that have been demonstrated to be ineffective.
• Use employee data appropriately.
Protect employees' private information, and ensure that employees are aware of what data the company collects about them and how it uses the data. Indicate how the data will benefit employees as well as the organization-for example, by pinpointing knowledge or skills that, if acquired, will help them succeed on the job.