At 3n Strategy, we’ve worked closely with hundreds of SAP SuccessFactors clients, and we’ve seen how quickly the world of HR and People Analytics is changing. With tools like SAP Joule, agentic AI, and SAP People Intelligence coming into play, HR and People Analytics teams will need to rethink how they operate to stay competitive.
In our recent webinar, "What does the People Analytics team of the future look like?", we focused on how HR leaders can begin building the People Analytics teams of the future. The main takeaway? The skills and roles needed in the future will be very different from those that work today.
Rethinking the People Analytics Team Structure
One of the most important points we covered was the need for HR leaders to build a culture of innovation and continuous learning in their People Analytics teams. As AI becomes more integrated into the HR tech stack, traditional roles—like data analysts who mostly focus on building static reports—will give way to more flexible, forward-thinking positions.
The future People Analytics team will need a blend of technical expertise and strategic insight. It’s no longer just about understanding data—it’s about turning that data into clear insights that drive decisions. To do this, teams need people who can work with AI-powered tools, explain the insights in a way that’s easy to understand, and provide recommendations that actually impact HR strategy.
The Skills Needed for the Future
The People Analytics function of the future will require a combination of technical skills and business savvy. In our webinar, we highlighted the following skills HR leaders should focus on as they build their teams:
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AI and Machine Learning – With AI becoming a bigger part of HR analytics, it’s essential that teams develop expertise in things like predictive analytics and automation.
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Telling a Story with Data – Data is only useful when it’s shared in a way that resonates with decision-makers. People who can turn raw data into a story that drives action will be key.
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Adaptability and Change Management – The future team will need to be flexible, always learning, and able to adapt to new technologies and business needs.
Preparing for the Future
We also discussed how important it is to get ready for a future where AI is a part of almost every HR decision. While these technologies will automate many tasks, they will also require new skills to understand and apply the insights they provide.
For HR leaders, this means making sure their teams have the right technical skills to manage tools like SAP Joule and People Intelligence, but also the mindset to keep learning and adapting as things change.
Getting Started: Building Your Team
So, how do you start building the People Analytics team of the future today? First, take a close look at the skills your team has right now and identify where there are gaps. Investing in training for things like AI, data science, and change management will help ensure your team is ready for the future.
By fostering a culture of innovation, encouraging continuous learning, and equipping your team with the right skills, you’ll be in a stronger position to take full advantage of emerging technologies and drive better outcomes for your business.
Watch the Full Webinar Recording
If you missed the live session, you can still catch up by watching the full webinar recording. Learn more about building a future-ready People Analytics team, the skills you’ll need, and how AI is changing the analytics landscape.