The third edition of the HR Tech MENA Summit, organized by Dubai-based QnA International at the Westin Dubai, Al Habtoor City, recently came to a close. The event centered on the changing dynamics within the HR technology segment as seen by industry leaders from across the region and beyond. Discussions at HR Tech MENA 2017 ranged from the challenges of rapid technological developments to the need for enhancement of workplace life, at a time when organizations the world over are implementing digital workplaces as well as continuing to use technology to pay, hire and train employees. Dr. Omar Al-Nuaimi, Assistant Undersecretary for Communications and Internal Relations, Ministry of Human Resources and Emiratisation, UAE, said: "The future of work is central to what we do at the ministry and a central pillar in UAE›s Vision 2021. We were delighted to see some substantive discussions at HR Tech on how the employers and policymakers can equip the new generation of workers." In addressing digital transformation, Hani Hirzallah, Senior Vice President, Human Resources and Development, ADNIC, noted that: "This summit is a vital platform in introducing global technological advancements to the region and we heard some great discussions on how to make technology work effectively for people, especially millennials." Johann Chagot, Manager of HR Technology at Yum! Brands, is currently engaged in an implementation project for a talent management solution and found HR Tech MENA 2017 of indispensable value. "It was great to get a more strategic view of business trends to take back and apply in the workplace," he said. "I got a lot of ideas over these two days for long-term thinking." Sadek El-Assaad, Chief Human Resources Officer, Aramex, said: "I was extremely impressed with the high level and diversity of attendees at the event. The conference programme was focused and the audience very open minded, and willing to learn and understand the challenges we face across our industry." Bhanu Shekhar, Chief Digital Officer, GE Power, asserted that "HR Tech MENA 2017 was of particular relevance, when considering the pace of digital transformation in the region. This conference brings together those who play a frontline role in digitising the workplace." The emergence of artificial intelligence (AI), cognitive processing, and the integration of behavioral science in human resource management were also discussed by global and regional organizations such as IBM, Oracle, Aramex, Chalhoub Group, Emirates NBD, Dubai Airports, ADNIC, Emaar, Qatar Airways, Al-Futtaim Group, GE Power, Gulf Bank, Jumeirah Group, ADCB, Batelco, Omantel, Mahreq Bank, M.H. Alshaya Co. and Hamad Medical Centre. "The success of HR Tech MENA 2017 is testament to the commitment of regional organisations to the digital transformation in the workplace," said Sidh N.C., Director, QnA International. "We are seeing significant cultural shifts in workplace practices – driven by mobile and cloud computing, and platform-based technologies. These need ongoing attention from the HR function if we are to fulfil the promises of regional economic visions." — SG
