Managing the future of talents: digital innovation in learning organizations

Abstract

Purpose The purpose of this study is to explore the diffusion of digital innovation for talent management in Italian learning organizations. Design/methodology/approach It has been implemented a qualitative methodology to collect data, interviewing 16 experts; a mix method analysis was applied to explore thematic categories and to analyze co-occurrences by a quantitative approach analysis using T-Lab software. Findings There are some relevant points to underline: digital technologies are meant as a support to human resource management (HRM), and there is often the reference to digital gamification or gamified processes implemented for talent management procedures. Learning is a central element both for employees’ point of view and for HR specialists who feel the need for a major and more specific training on digital technologies. Research limitations/implications The limited size and composition of the sample put restrictions on the generalizability of results. The explorative nature of the study provides an in-depth consideration of digital innovation in learning organization, representing a first starting point for future quantitative investigations. From a practical point of view, this study emphasizes a learning organization culture as an essential attitude set to attract, select and retain top talents. Practical implications From a practical point of view, this study emphasizes a learning organization culture as an essential attitude set to attract, select and retain top talents. Originality/value Giving space and voice to HR and information and communication technologies experts has provided insights regarding the digitalization process in HRM in Italy, in particular, digital learning has been told as a necessary element for the competitiveness of the workforce.