Navigating the dual effects of human resource analytics on social sustainability

Purpose Human resource analytics (HRA) is increasingly recognized as transformative for workforce decisions and critical in organizations’ digital strategy. However, there is limited discussion on HRA’s impact on social sustainability – another corporate strategic priority. This paper aims to provide a comprehensive analysis of how HRA implementation affects various dimensions of social sustainability. Design/methodology/approach The research maps the impact of HRA practices and applications onto the five social sustainability principles outlined by Missimer et al. (2017). Findings The analysis reveals that HRA can both promote and undermine social sustainability across the five principles. Practical recommendations are provided to foster positive impacts and mitigate unintended consequences. Originality/value This paper provides a holistic account on HRA’s impact on social sustainability. The analysis and proposed recommendations help business leaders and HR managers align HRA implementation with the sustainability agenda and develop regulating mechanisms for its responsible use.