Employers Seek Simpler Benefits Solutions

HR Trends: Expanded HR tools from OnPay help HR tasks

OnPay reports a new set of HR capabilities designed to centralize HR and payroll tasks for small and mid-sized teams. The features include things like employee document storage, PTO tracking, org charts, customizable templates, and approval workflows within one dashboard. These tools aim to reduce repetitive admin work and support the full employee lifecycle without adding complexity. The platform still offers core payroll essentials at the same pricing while allowing employers to add deeper HR functions as their needs grow. This update reflects broader demand for unified systems that ease administrative work for HR teams. Read more.

HR Insights: Balancing AI with Human Judgment

At The Hoffman Agency, Chief People Officer APAC Alex Png outlines a clear rule for modern HR. Data informs, but humans decide. As AI becomes more common in workforce management, he points to predictive talent analytics as one of its most useful applications. These tools surface patterns in capability, engagement, and retention that traditional reviews often miss.

He argues that technology should help leaders act with foresight and empathy, not replace judgment. By using analytics to detect early signals, HR teams can design more personal and timely interventions. He also stresses the need to move from change management to change readiness. Leaders who treat agility as a skill and model comfort with uncertainty build teams that view learning as progress rather than failure. Read more.

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HR Tips and Tricks

Tip: When designing performance evaluations, include employee self-rating components before manager reviews. Giving employees a voice in their assessment can reveal insights and reduce bias in final evaluations.

Trick: Set up periodic “HR health checks” where your team reviews compliance, documentation, and policy effectiveness outside of annual review cycles. This regular check-in can catch issues early and keep HR operations more proactive.

HR Case Files: Scientist sues Abbott over ignored racism complaints

A former senior research scientist at Abbott Laboratories has filed a lawsuit claiming her reports of racism were not acted on despite being escalated all the way to the CEO. She alleges five HR leaders were tasked with investigating but provided only excuses and no resolution. The case includes claims of race and disability discrimination, retaliation, and breach of contract. Brown says she was passed over for promotions, given smaller raises, and ultimately let go while her team members were reassigned. The lawsuit highlights alleged HR failures in addressing serious workplace issues. Read more.

Key Takeaways:

• Employee claimed multiple levels of HR failed to investigate racism reports.

• Alleged discrimination included missed raises and lack of promotion opportunities.

• Lawsuit includes claims of retaliation tied to medical leave.

• The plaintiff is seeking back pay, damages, and legal fees.

HR Toolkit

Resources: Employers Seek Simpler Benefits Solutions

A study highlighted in a benefits report shows HR professionals are facing heavier workloads and are looking for simpler, more integrated benefits solutions. Most employers said managing multiple carriers is challenging and they want one-stop platforms where technology, enrollment tools, and administration are unified. The research also found that while many organizations are open to AI for routine tasks, they still value human support for complex issues. This trend signals demand for benefits systems that reduce administrative load and improve the benefits experience for both HR and employees. Know more.

Events

The MBA announced the Human Resources Symposium 2026 scheduled for September 9–11. The event will offer sessions on emerging HR strategies, talent management practices, and leadership development for HR professionals. Attendees can expect learning, networking, and practical workshops that address current workforce challenges and opportunities in HR management.

Click here to be a part of this event.

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