University stakeholders’ perceptions of the impact and benefits of, and barriers to, human resource information systems in Spanish universities

Abstract

The purpose of this article is twofold: (1) to examine university stakeholders’ perception of the importance and benefits of, and barriers to, transmitting information on human resources collected in human resource information systems in universities; and (2) to understand stakeholders’ perceptions of the impact of the effective implementation of human resource information systems on university efficiency. To this end, a questionnaire was developed and sent to all members of the social councils of Spanish public universities. Descriptive statistics, analysis of variance and linear regression analysis were used to answer the research questions. Our main findings revealed a strong emphasis on the need for universities to transmit information about their human resources from the implementation of human resource information systems. Specifically, university stakeholders perceive as very relevant the provision of information about the academic and professional qualifications of the teaching and research staff, the mobility of teachers and researchers, scientific productivity, and teaching capacities and competences. Likewise, findings suggest that increased transparency, quick responses and easy access to information were the main benefits of the implementation of human resource information systems, while the lack of commitment from top management and insufficient financial support were perceived as the greatest barriers to human resource information systems in selected universities. Finally, the results confirm that a well-implemented human resource information system has the potential to enhance human capital efficiency in universities. The findings provide some insights into the performance and applications of human resource information systems in Spanish universities that could help human resource management practitioners to get a better understanding of the current uses, benefits and problems of human resource information systems, which, in turn, will improve their effectiveness in Spanish universities. Points for practitioners A well-implemented human resources information system has the potential to improve the efficiency of human capital management. This study contributes to practical knowledge by helping professionals in charge of human resources management to better understand the benefits of and barriers to implementing human resource information systems in universities, enabling the better future management of human resources in them. Likewise, this article provides managers with a greater understanding of the effects of human resource information systems on efficiency and shows that they represent a key factor in improving university performance.