Abstract

Robotic Process Automation (RPA) has significantly transformed Human Resources (HR) by automating repetitive and time-consuming tasks, allowing HR professionals to focus on more strategic initiatives. Initially applied to administrative functions such as payroll, benefits management, and attendance tracking, RPA has evolved to streamline complex HR processes, including recruitment, employee onboarding, performance management, and employee retention. This paper investigates the evolution of RPA within HR functions, exploring how automation has enhanced operational efficiency, reduced costs, and improved employee and candidate experiences. Through a mixed-methods approach, including surveys and interviews with HR professionals, the research examines the adoption of RPA across different HR functions and evaluates its impact on key metrics such as time-to-hire, employee engagement, and retention rates. Case studies from leading organizations like IBM and Accenture demonstrate RPA’s potential to reduce hiring times, improve the candidate experience, and increase retention through personalized, automated employee communications. However, the study also highlights the challenges of RPA implementation, including employee resistance, integration with legacy systems, and concerns about job displacement. This paper contributes to a deeper understanding of how RPA is reshaping HR practices, providing valuable insights for organizations seeking to implement automation in a human-centered manner. The research underscores the importance of balancing technology with human expertise to ensure that RPA supports rather than replaces the critical aspects of HR, such as employee engagement and cultural fit.