THE IMPACT OF DIGITAL TRANSFORMATION ON HUMAN RESOURCE MANAGEMENT CASE STUDY: ALBANIAN UNIVERSITIES DURING THE PANDEMIC PERIOD

This study investigates the impact of digital transformation on human resource management (HRM) within Albanian universities during the COVID-19 pandemic, a period that necessitated rapid adaptation to remote operations and technology driven processes. Employing a Multivocal Literature Review (MLR) methodology, the research integrates findings from both peer-reviewed academic sources and gray literature, including institutional reports, policy briefs, and professional surveys. The analysis explores how digital technologies - such as Microsoft Teams, Google Workspace, and internally developed HR platforms - were adopted to manage recruitment, performance evaluation, payroll, and staff communication. The findings reveal that private universities demonstrated faster adoption and integration of digital tools compared to public institutions, largely due to more flexible governance structures and resource availability. However, significant challenges emerged across the sector, including technological resistance, insufficient infrastructure, cybersecurity concerns, and a lack of digital skills and training among academic and administrative staff. These barriers were more pronounced in public universities, where bureaucratic processes and funding limitations hindered implementation. The study underscores that while the pandemic acted as a catalyst for digital HRM transformation, sustaining these advancements requires strategic investment, capacity-building programs, and inclusive policies that address disparities between institutions. Recommendations highlight the importance of continuous professional development, cross-institutional collaboration, and the alignment of HRM digital strategies with long-term higher education reform agendas.