Participant Feedback and Data Management Protocol

This assignment outlines the protocols for communicating with participants at the conclusion of their involvement, including whether they will receive information about study findings. It also details data storage and security measures, such as compliance with the Data Protection Act (1998), access to personal data by the research team and company management, use of mobile devices like USB storage, and long-term data retention plans. Additionally, it addresses ethical concerns related to informed consent, vulnerable participants, sensitive topics, risk management, confidentiality/anonymity, and data dissemination.

Research Project

Table of Contents
INTRODUCTION...........................................................................................................................2
1.1 Overview of the research..................................................................................................2
1.2 Background of the research .............................................................................................2
1.3 Significance of the research .............................................................................................3
1.4 Research aim....................................................................................................................3
1.5 Research objectives .........................................................................................................4
1.6 Research questions ..........................................................................................................4
1.7 Ethical considerations ......................................................................................................4
CHAPTER 2: LITERATURE REVIEW.........................................................................................5
2.1 Introduction .....................................................................................................................5
2.2 Needs of implementation of information technology ......................................................5
2.3 Significance of human resource practices for Softwire Ltd. ...........................................5
2.4 Impact of digital tools and techniques on HRM practices...............................................6
2.5 Justify the ways to improve HRM practices.....................................................................7
CHAPTER 3: RESEARCH METHODOLOGY ............................................................................8
3.1 Types of investigation .....................................................................................................8
3.2 Research design ...............................................................................................................8
3.3 Research philosophy ........................................................................................................9
3.4 Research approach ...........................................................................................................9
3.5 Data Sampling .................................................................................................................9
3.6 Data analysis...................................................................................................................10
3.7 Ethical consideration......................................................................................................10
CHAPTER 4: DATA ANALYSIS ...............................................................................................10
CHAPTER 5: CONCLUSION & RECOMMENDATIONS.........................................................22
5.1 Conclusion .....................................................................................................................22
5.2 Recommendations .........................................................................................................23
REFERENCES..............................................................................................................................24
APPENDIX....................................................................................................................................26

TITLE – “To evaluate the impact of digital tools and technologies on HRM practices” - A case
study on Softwire.
INTRODUCTION
1.1 Overview of the research
Due to modernisation, every company tends to adopt new and innovative techniques in
order to improve the working practices and operations. Managers want to have well skilled and
qualified workforce for getting high competitive advantage. Apart from this, human resource
management is the most crucial function of business organisation. It helps company to manage
the workforce and influence them to work for accomplishing set goals and objectives (Aral,
Brynjolfsson and Wu, 2012). Human resource management has adapted wide changes and it
always focus on rising technology within functional areas which greatly influence the working
culture of HR department. If a company has powerful and efficient workforce then it results in
the enhancement in performance level of employees. There are several HRM practices such as
recruitment, selection, training, performance management, personnel management, industrial
relations, etc. If digitalisation will add in these practices then they would make more effective
and innovative which is beneficial for company. This can also resolve all biasses at workplace
and generate a friendly environment (Asogwa, 2012). On the other hand, company can also
create its own job portal and update information about current vacant position so that individuals
can easily apply here. It helps in finding and hiring the best candidates.
1.2 Background of the research
The present research is going to describe that every business organisation needs to use
modern or digital techniques for operating all functional areas of services. These equipment
helps company to gain high competitive advantage by improving the efficiency of its business
activities. The research is based on Softwire which is a software provider company. The mission
statement of business organisation is to manufacture high-tech techniques and software which
give maximum level of satisfaction to their clients. In order to achieve its mission statement,
other organisation is highly focused on improving the knowledge criteria of its employees
(Bardhan and Thouin, 2013). For this, Softwire organises online training sessions through video
conferencing, presentations, apps, e-virtual classrooms, etc. All these training modes would help
company to improve workers' performance and reduce employee turnover costs.

1.3 Significance of the research
This research is conducted to know that how an organisation can improve its human
resource practices by using information tools and techniques. If cited venture i.e. Softwire Ltd.,
use new and advanced techniques while hiring new employees and providing training to existing
ones then it will help to manage an effective workforce which is liable to achieve firm's goals
and objectives. Apart from that, this research also helps readers to know different types of human
resource practices and the way these can be improved to get desired outcomes. In today's
scenario, every corporate association wants to grow and diversify (Bermès and Fauduet, 2011).
For this purpose, it used different HRM practices so as to gain a powerful workforce.
Digitalisation in HRM also enables performance management and appraisals. It means that
supervisors will submit the performance data of all employees to HR department. Further, it also
manages the confidentiality of information. Therefore, digitizing has ability to unlock new level
of efficiency in performance management in the corporate world. At the same time, it can also
raise the quality as well as relevance of information supply aggregately.
1.4 Research aim
Research aim is a wide statement of desired results. It is a common intention for which
overall research is going to be conducted. It renders the major purpose to reader behind
conducting a research. In addition, research aim is a broad statement and focused on what is
going to be achieved in the future. It defines long terms project outcomes like expectations and
aspirations towards the research project (Crook and et. al., 2011). The aim of this research
project is, “To evaluate the impact of digital tools and technologies on HRM practices” - A case
study on Softwire Ltd.
1.5 Research objectives
Research objectives are the proper strategies which described the way to achieve research
aim. All steps which takes needs a specific lists of tasks in order to attain goals of research
project. Research objectives should be sensible and precisely decided. They make an accurate
use of concepts and data (De Groot, 2014). There are described major objectives of this research
project, such are stated as under: -
 To ascertain the requirement of implementation of digital techniques within organisation.
 To evaluate the significance of effective HRM practices at Softwire Ltd.

 To determine the influence of digitalisation on human resource practices within
organisation.
 To find out the ways of improving human resources practices in Softwire Ltd.
1.6 Research questions
Research questions start with exploring problem and issues. They provide brief
explanation about a specific issue which must be addressed or changed. It defines the area of
interest but not a declarative statement like hypothesis (Garrigos-Simon, Lapiedra Alcami and
Barbera Ribera, 2012). Below mentioned certain research questions are:
 What are the requirements of regulating information technology at workplace?
 What is the importance of HRM practices for Softwire Ltd. ?
 How to ascertain the impact of digital tools on human resource practices in M&S?
 Recommend various ways of improving HRM practices?
1.7 Ethical considerations
While making any kind of research, it is necessary for the researcher to follow certain
ethics and principles. Basically, ethics are moral principles which define what is right and wrong
or it may be a comparison between both. An investigator needs to make a proper balance in
between principles and practices. Apart from this, in this part of research, an investigator
identifies different issues and problems which can affect the research activities or tasks (Guest,
2011). There are several constraints like time, money, author-ship, availability of data,
plagiarism, etc. Among all these, time is one the major issues as if researcher does not get proper
time for conducting research then the accuracy and reliability of data will get hampered.
CHAPTER 2: LITERATURE REVIEW
2.1 Introduction
A literature review refers as published information about a specific topic and sometimes,
it is just for a certain time period. In other words, LR is just a simple summary of different
sources from where data is gathered but it is usually based on a company's pattern (Jiang and et.
al., 2012). Along with this, it provides new interpretation through old material and combine both
of them in order to make better decisions. The main purpose of literature review is to resolve all
research problem or issues and address them in a systematic manner.

2.2 Needs of implementation of information technology
Digital tools and techniques are benefited to a business organisation, it allows companies
to work effectively and raising its productivity. There are several tools of information
technology, such as- faster communication, electronic storage as well as data storage helps a
company to gain high competitive advantage at marketplace. According to Kallunki, Laitinen
and Silvola, 2011, the word digitalisation means to manage overall working activities through
computer system, which is very advantageous for getting incorporate information. For example-
digital tools gives remote access to company for managing all networking areas. Such
accessibility increases productivity because all employees are in under control with management.
Normally, multinational companies, i.e. Softwire Ltd., is required to keep track and regulate all
activities; in this relation they can use information technology system in order to store several
documents, communication records and operation data.
Apart from this, digitalisation also helps in improving decision making process of the
company by getting all necessary information which is required. Decision includes selection of
course of action from different sources and carrying out activities (Laudon and Laudon, 2016).
Therefore, it can be said that digitalisation plays a crucial role in growth and success of every
business; it aids managers in every functional area, such as- marketing, finance, human resource,
research and development. So that, it is essential for business organisation to upgrade their all
activities and resources in order to get succeed and achieve high returns in target market.
2.3 Significance of human resource practices for Softwire Ltd
Human resource management is a broad term which is used to manage overall workforce
within organisation. HRM practices refers to implementation of a HR strategy; the best practices
put a huge impact on employees. Love and Singh, 2011, states that it helps in providing
adaptability and flexibility to an organisation. Along with this, there are several human resources
practices which is used by Softwire Ltd., in order to manage the performance level of employees
and getting high competitive to a company. Establishment of these policies also helps in
managing workforce diversity, training and ethics. Beside this, it forces company to shows its
commitments towards corporate governance and regulations of human resources.
Best HRM practices can eliminates cultural differences among people and improve their
interpersonal relations; it increase workers' trust and morale towards moral. There are several
HRM practices, such as- training and development, recruitment, selection and performance

measurement, payroll and compensation. Apart from this, these policies also tend towards
managing workers' performance and getting a healthy and positive working environment.
Another major aspect of HR policies is to build an effective organisational cultural (Maditinos
and et. al., 2011). For instance – retention policies include flexible workforce and compensation
policies. Furthermore, HR department should focus on rewarding and appreciating employees as
they can motivate towards performing in well manner. Through which firm will be easily
achieved its goals and objectives in a minimum time period.
2.4 Impact of digital tools and techniques on HRM practices
Technology highly influence human resource practices. It provides strategic advantage to
the firms. It is necessary for every organisation to have skilled and knowledgeable workforce
which administer them competitive edge. Effective management of human capital requires
accurate and timely information of present and potential employees in order to gain advantage
from the market place. According to Nambisan, 2013, due to changing scenario and new
technology evolution, meeting information needs becomes important. It is necessary for the
managers of human resource management department to be aware about the technological
changes. It will increase the quality of workforce information as well as have strong impact on
the effectiveness of organisation.
In this competitive world, firms now a days focuses on adopting new technologies. It is
beneficial for the organisation as it increases the productivity as well as profitability that leads
the firm towards growth and success in the market. Digital tools and techniques helps in
providing effective training to employees so that their skills are improved and they are able to
perform in effective and efficient manner (Ochsner, Hug and Daniel, 2012). Use of information
technology allows firms to enhance their internal processes, organisational structures, core
competencies and relevant markets at global level. Technology has influence on workforce and
at the same time employees, customers, suppliers and managers increase their expectations for
HR functions. In Softwire, human resource practices are changed by the emergence of
information technology. So, incorporation of information technology in the processes and
activities of human resource management helps in enhancing the performance of an organisation
as well as its employees. The process of recruitment, training, data storage & retrieval and
performance management made more efficient activities.

2.5 Justify the ways to improve HRM practices
There are several different ways or methods which needs to adopt by every firm in order
to improve human resource practices. Such improvements also helps in attaining and retaining
staff members for long term period within organisation. Below mentioned certain methods
through which companies can improvise its HR policies and practices, such as- Set organisational goals and objectives –The foremost activity is it is fundamental for
corporate associations to set its goals and objectives. It provides direction to all workers
as they work accordingly. Pardo, Nam and Burke, 2012, states that unclear goals and
targets reflects employee’s interests within organisation. Performance management – It is also recommend to HR manager to measure the
performance level of staff members on regular basis. This can enhance the quality of their
work life and improve overall production level. Be transparent – Softwire Ltd., is heavily is focus on workplace cultural and
transparency. Therefore, managers have to always share their decisions and viewpoints
with other employees in order to win their trust and morale (Peppard and Ward, 2016). Listening employee’s grievances – HR manager should also listen workers' issues and
grievances so as to make healthy and friendly environment at workplace. Through which
enable in improving decision making process of the company.
 Using digital or modern tools – Company also has to new and modern tools in its
production process in order to improve HR practices.
CHAPTER 3: RESEARCH METHODOLOGY
Research methodology is an activity through which information is gathered with an aim
of making business decisions. It involves public research, surveys, interviews, questionnaire and
other research techniques that is based on historical as well as present research. In other words,
research methodology encompasses different methods or ways which are used in order to
conduct a research (De Groot, 2014). Basically, research methodology is conducted in order to
resolve all business problems and determine relevant solution for the same. Therefore, it can be
said that this part of research provides right direction to research provide and make it more
effective and innovative.

3.1 Types of investigation
There are different types of research can be used by researcher, such as- applied,
qualitative and quantitative research. In which, applied research tries to reduce the problems by
adding basics into it, here problems are addressed and from the viewpoint of discipline. Applied
research reports are compiled in a technical language. Beside this, quantitative research is based
upon numeric figures or statistics; its aim is to measure the amount of information and then
compare it with past records. Such information are used for future period. The major objective of
quantitative research is to evolve mathematical model, hypothesis or theories concern to
phenomena. Apart from this, qualitative research is all about collection and interpretation of
information by observing other's viewpoints and opinion (Ochsner, Hug and Daniel, 2012). It
means to collect real facts or figures. The research is not much subjective and usage various
methods of collecting information. Furthermore, the present research project is based upon
qualitative research as it based upon a sample size of people which are interviewed for a specific
purpose. The qualitative research method is used for collecting and gathering important facts and
figures for completing the project.
3.2 Research design
An effective research design offer an opportunity to researcher to make out working
activities effectively. It makes a research valuable so as to generate huge information with less
efforts, money as well as time. Along with this, research design allows a researcher to smooth
sailing of different operations, so that research can be more efficient and effective. On the other
hand, there are three types of research design, such as- descriptive, experimental and exploratory
research design. In which descriptive research design is accessible in providing answers of
different questions, i.e. who, when and how will be associated in a specific research problem.
Whereas experimental research design is a blueprint of procedure which enables that investigator
has to put a control over all aspects which can hamper the results of an experiment or research
(Rezaeian, 2014). Exploratory research design is conducted in order to resolve all research
problems when there is no earlier studies are depend to forecast an outcome. Beside this, the
present research is based on descriptive research design because it obtain data that is concern
with current status of the phenomena. Descriptive research is used for gaining accurate data and
information that can be helpful in preparing good and appropriate report.

3.3 Research philosophy
A research philosophy involves nature, source and knowledge of research. The approach
enable to decide that which one the best suitable philosophy for researcher and whether it is
derived from research questions or not. Research philosophy is classified into three parts, such
as- positivism, interpretivism and realism. In which, positivism research philosophy is based on
observable social entity; these hypothesis are tested and confirmed before using in any research
project. Realism research philosophy is known as branch of epistemology which concerns with
scientific enquiry (Tesch, 2013). It pertains to disclose the existence and reality of the objects
that are prevalent in human mind. Apart from this, interpretivism is emphasised on the
differences between social and human elements. In this, there is an interpretation of social roles
which presents in own set of meaning. The research is based on positivism research philosophy
that can be used as qualitative data and information in better manner.
3.4 Research approach
Research approach is divided into two parts, such as- deductive and inductive. In which
inductive research approach generalise from specific to general. Here, data collection is used in
order to explore identify themes and patterns. But the research is based upon deductive research
approach because it is generalise from general to specific (Rezaeian, 2014). In this, data is used
with an aim of evaluation of propositions and hypothesis concern with existing theory. In this
research, deductive method is used for gaining specific information that can be used in order to
acquire income and revenue.
3.5 Data Sampling
Data sampling is known as statistical analysis technique which can be used so as to select
and manipulate an allegorical subset of data points for determining the patterns in larger data set
being examined. The present research is conducted on the basis of 40 respondents.
3.6 Data analysis
Data analysis a framework in which gathered data is examined whether it is beneficial for
so as one can make better decisions (Robinson and et. al., 2015). It helps researcher to know
other's viewpoints or thoughts about company's products and services.
3.7 Ethical consideration
This phase of research project refers that an investigator have to use different ethics and
principles while collecting information. The person needs to protect the vulnerable group and

other participants. Respondents should be safeguard from any kind of exploitation. Research
ensure respect, privacy, dignity and fair treatment for subject.
CHAPTER 4: DATA ANALYSIS
Data analysis is the imperative part of research project. In this, data collect and interpret
by different sources. It can be represented through various graphs and pie charts. Here, data
analysis is done through questionnaire.
QUESTIONNAIRE
Name
Age
Gender
Phone No.
Q1. Is digital techniques are helpful in getting high competitive advantage at market place?
A. Yes
B. No.
Q2. Do you think that corporate associations need to regularly improve its human resource
practices?
A. Agree
B. Disagree
Q3. Which tools are helpful in managing performance level of employees?
A. Web based
B. Client based
C. Client/server based
Q4. Are employees of Softwire Ltd., available 24X7 or they allowed/encouraged to switch off
their mobile phones during working hours?
A. 24 X 7
B. Allow to switch off
Q5. Which HRM practices are followed by Softwire Ltd?
A. Managing industrial relations
B. Performance management
C. Training and development

D. Recruitment and selection
Q6. What are the tools of measuring employee’s performance level?
A. Balance scorecard
B. Performance pyramid
C. Performance Prism
Q7. What is the impact of digitalisation within Softwire Ltd.?
A. Better customer understanding
B. Maintain the quality of workforce
C. Improving production level
Q8. Are you satisfied with offered products and services of the company?
A. Highly satisfied
B. Satisfied
C. Dissatisfied
Q9. Which is the most effective sector of Softwire is highly responsible for its market growth?
A. Electronic products
B. Grocery products
C. Financial services
D. General merchandise
Q 10. Rating the products and services of the business organisation?
A. Excellent
B. Good
C. Average
Q11. Which is the most appropriate communication channel used by HR department of the
company?
A. Mollie Phones
B. Specific applications
C. Video conferencing
D. E-mails or text messages
Q12. Give your recommendations regarding any improvements in digital techniques of the
company for making effective HRM practices?

Data analysis
QUESTIONNAIRE
Q1. Is digital techniques are helpful in getting high
competitive advantage at market place?
Frequency
A. Yes 35
B. No 5
Q2. Do you think that corporate associations need to
regularly improve its human resource practices?
Frequency
A. Agree 30
B. Disagree 10
Q3. Which tools are helpful in managing performance level
of employees?
Frequency
A. Web based 20
B. Client based 8
C. Client/server based 12
Q4. Are employees of Softwire Ltd., available 24X7 or they
allowed to switch off their mobile phones during working
hours?
Frequency
A. 24 X 7 25
B. Allow to switch off 15
Q5. Which HRM practices are followed by Softwire Ltd? Frequency
A. Managing industrial relations 20
B. Performance management 7
C. Training and development 10
D. Recruitment and selection 3

Q6. What are the tools of measuring employee’s
performance level?
Frequency
A. Balance scorecard 30
B. Performance pyramid 8
C. Performance Prism 2
Q7. What is the impact of digitalisation within Softwire
Ltd.?
Frequency
A. Better customer understanding 15
B. Maintain the quality of workforce 20
C. Improving production level 5
Q8. Are you satisfied with offered products and services of
the company?
Frequency
A. Highly satisfied 30
B. Satisfied 6
C. Dissatisfied 4
Q9. Which is the most effective sector of Softwire is highly
responsible for its market growth?
Frequency
A. Electronic products 5
B. Grocery products 25
C. Financial services 2
D. General merchandise 8
Q10. Rating the products and services of the business
organisation?
Frequency
A. Excellent 32
B. Good 6
C. Average 4

Q11. Which is the most appropriate communication
channel used by HR department of the company?
Frequency
A. Mobile Phones 15
B. Software applications 12
C. Video conferencing 8
D. E-mails or text messages 5
Q12. Give your recommendations regarding any
improvements in digital techniques of the company for
making effective HRM practices?
Frequency
Thematic analysis: -
Theme 1: Significance of digitalisation on business organisation
Q1. Is digital techniques are helpful in getting high
competitive advantage at market place?
Frequency
A. Yes 35
B. No 5
A. Yes B. No
0
5
10
15
20
25
30
35
35
5
Column B

Interpretation – As per the above diagram, it is analysed that modernisation of
information techniques plays a crucial role in growth and success of every business organisation.
It helps Softwire to improve its working activities and functions so that it can company can
achieve its goals and objectives. There are 35 respondents are totally agree with this statement
and rest says that company also needs to make improvements in other areas also in order to get
high competitive advantage.
Theme 2: Need of improving human resource practices to Softwire Ltd.
Q2. Do you think that corporate associations need to
regularly improve its human resource practices?
Frequency
A. Agree 30
B. Disagree 10
Interpretation – With this graphical presentation, it is analysed that 30 respondents says
that Softwire Ltd., has to continuously improve its HRM practices so as to provide healthy
working environment to employees. It would also accessible in attaining and retaining them for
long term period. Remaining 10 participants are not in support with this statement.
Theme 3: Managing performance level of people within organisation
Q3. Which tools are helpful in managing performance Frequency
30
10
A. Agree
B. Disagree

level of employees?
A. Web based 20
B. Client based 8
C. Client/server based 12
Interpretation: As per the market research, it has evaluated that it is fundamental of
companies to manage performance and production level of employees. For that, 20 people says
that firm has to use web based techniques, as it will provides managers huge data and
information. Whereas 8 supports that client based performance techniques are best and rest of 12
are in support of client/server based techniques.
Theme 4: Employees are allowed to switch off their phones
Q4. Are employees of Softwire Ltd., available 24X7 or they
allowed to switch off their mobile phones during working
hours?
Frequency
A. 24 X 7 25
B. Allow to switch off 15
A. Web based
B. Client based
C. Client/sever based
0
2
4
6
8
10
12
14
16
18
20
20
8
12
Column B

Interpretation: According to the diagram, it is analysed that Softwire Ltd., have to
provide effective customers services to customers. In this perspective, 25 people supports that
firm allows its employees to switch on their mobile phone 24 x 7 for personal as well as
professional purpose. Whereas, 15 supports that employees should switch off their phones during
working hours as they can concentrate on business activities.
Theme 5: HRM practices of business organisations
Q5. Which HRM practices are followed by Softwire Ltd? Frequency
A. Managing industrial relations 20
B. Performance management 7
C. Training and development 10
D. Recruitment and selection 3
A. Web based
B. Client based
C. Client/sever based
0
2
4
6
8
10
12
14
16
18
20
20
8
12
Column B

Interpretation: As per the above diagram, it is measured that human resource practices
are the most imperative part of every corporate association. It helps managers to get best
performance outcomes in a certain time period. Softwire Ltd., is mostly focus on managing
friendly and healthy employee relation, with the view point of 20 customers, whereas 7 says that
company should follow the concept of performance management. Remaining 10 are in favour of
training and development whereas 3 says that company needs to recruit and select new
employees.
Theme 6: Tools of performance measurement
Q6. What are the tools of measuring employees
performance level ?
Frequency
A. Balance scorecard 30
B. Performance pyramid 8
C. Performance Prism 2
0
4
8
12
16
20
20
7
10
3
Column B

Interpretation – As per the marketing survey, it is analysed that 30 participants supports
that balance scorecard is the best way of measuring employees' performance. It aids in getting
maximum production outcomes to a company. It helps managers to get proper level about
performance of staff members. Apart from this, 8 states that company should use performance
pyramids and remaining 2 states that performance prism the best method of measuring
performance.
Theme 7: Impact of digitalisation on Softwire Ltd.
Q7. What is the impact of digitalisation within Softwire
Ltd.?
Frequency
A. Better customer understanding 15
B. Maintain the quality of workforce 20
C. Improving production level 5
30
82
A. Balance scorecard
B. Performance pyramid
C. Performance Prism

Interpretation – Information technology helps a company to grab opportunities and get
succeed in target market. As per the above graphical presentation, it is measured that 15
respondents are in favour that it helps in providing better customer understanding to a company.
Whereas 20 states that digital tools aids in managing the quality of workforce and rest of 5
supports that it aids in improvising production level of employees.
Theme 8: Customer satisfaction level on products and services of company
Q8. Are you satisfied with offered products and services of
the company ?
Frequency
A. Highly satisfied 30
B. Satisfied 6
C. Dissatisfied 4
A. Better customer understanding
B. Maintain the quality of workforce
C. Improving production level
0
2
4
6
8
10
12
14
16
18
20
15
20
5
Column B

Interpretation – The above research states that there are over 30% customers are highly
satisfied with products and services of the company whereas 65 are satisfied. Beside this,
remaining 4 are totally dissatisfied with goodies of the business organisation.
Theme 9: Most growing sector of Softwire for its market growth and success
Q9. Which is the most effective sector of Softwire is highly
responsible for its market growth?
Frequency
A. Electronic products 5
B. Grocery products 25
C. Financial services 2
D. General merchandise 8
A. Highly satisfied B. Satisfied C. Dissatisfied
0
5
10
15
20
25
30
30
6
4
Column B

Interpretation – As per the above diagram, it is evaluated that 25% participants thinks
that grocery products are the most effective sector of Softwire Ltd., which is highly responsible
for its market growth and success. Apart from this, 8% people supports that general merchandise
area, 5 are in favour of electronic products and remaining 2 are in favour of financial services.
Theme 10: Quality of products and services
Q 10. Rating the products and services of the business
organisation?
Frequency
A. Excellent 32
B. Good 6
C. Average 4
A. Electronic products
B. Grocery products
C. Financial services
D. General merchandise
0
5
10
15
20
25
5
25
2
8 Column B

Interpretation – According to the diagram, it is determine that 32 participants thinks that
Softwire having excellent quality of products, whereas 6 states that they are average. Rest 4
states that products' quality is average.
Theme 11: Most suitable communication channel
Q11. Which is the most appropriate communication
channel used by HR department of the company?
Frequency
A. Mobile Phones 15
B. Software applications 12
C. Video conferencing 8
D. E-mails or text messages 5
A. Excellent B. Good C. Average
0
5
10
15
20
25
30
35 32
6 4
Column B

Interpretation – As per the above diagram it is examined that 15 participants supports
that mobile phones are the best way of communication with employees. Whereas 12 prefer
software applications, 8 supports video conferencing and remaining 5 are in favour of emails and
text messages.
CHAPTER 5: CONCLUSION & RECOMMENDATIONS
5.1 Conclusion
From the above mentioned report, it is summarised that digitalisation is assistive in
implementation of HRM practices at workplace. It makes easier the process of recruitment,
selection, training and development so that firm can get an effective workforce. Implementation
of information technology within human resource practices is called E- HRM; it is an advance
business solution which helps in providing online support to all working activities which are
needed to manage employees within organization. It also helps managers in finding well
qualified workforce who is reliable for higher production. Along with this, digitalisation of HRM
practices also helps in implementing different strategies and policies with the assistance of
proper use of web-technology based channels. Furthermore, it also capture different elements of
HRM, such as- like education and training, administration, recruitment, selection, career
15
12
8
5
A. Mobile Phones
B. Software applications
C. Video conferencing
D. E-mails or text
messages

development, job description, employee’s personal pages, payroll and compensation etc.
Therefore, in order to manage healthy and effective workforce, it is required to managers to
focus on regulation of digital tools and techniques. It can concluded that implementation of
digital technology is helpful in gaining attention of large number of customers towards company
products and services. In an organisation, they are required to update and upgrade all methods
which are used for making and developing customers preferences goods and services in better
manner. This will assist in attracting more users who are willing to gain such type of products
and facilities effectively. The digital technology directly influenced on human resource practices
within an organisation. There are various ways through which company can help in improving
human resource practices in Softwire Ltd. It includes set organisational goals and objectives,
analyse performance management, be transparent listening employee’s grievances and using
digital or modern tools.
5.2 Recommendations
As per the case study it is recommended to Softwire Ltd., that it needs to always focus
on improving the quality of workforce. In this perspective, the firm has to use different web
portals and websites in order to find out suitable candidates who can best fitted within company's
criteria. Apart from this, company can also implement free flow of communication within
business environment so that employees can share their grievances with higher authorities. It
would also reduced conflicts and disputes among staff members which promote healthy and
positive working environment at workplaces. If workers will get friendly working environment
then they will be perform in more effective manner; it results improves the overall production
level of the company. Apart from this, information technology brings various improvements in
several areas, it has expected lower administrative costs, speed response times, maximisation in
production, extend the quality of customer service, and improve decision making process
simultaneously. Therefore, in Softwire Ltd., effective management of human resources also has
an important role to play in the performance and success of organizations. However, company
has to use digital tools and techniques for managing the quality of workforce, it aids in
leveraging human as well as business resources. The major benefit of using digital tools in
human resource practices is technological advancement. Furthermore, company can also
different tools of information techniques for effective completion of human resource tasks or

activities, such as- e-employee profile, e-recruitment, e-selection, e-learning, e-performance
management system, e-compensation etc.
Reflection
As per the above described report, it can be analysed that I used various methods which
are assist me in gathering and collecting accurate data and information while completing the
research project. In this, both primary and secondary method can be used for assemble all
relevant facts and figures which help in collecting relevant sources. Along with this, I used
questionnaire method that assist in analysing various authors and scholars views and reviews
regarding company products or services in better manner. This will help them in determining and
evaluating customers need as per this make proper changes.
Alternative research method
Softwire select questionnaire method which can be helpful in analysing their sample
respondents view and reviews regarding company products and services. Instead of
questionnaire, they can select interview method which can be useful for analyse respondent
perception in better manner. Sometime interview method can be time consuming and costly
which is reduces the firm profitability and income level. Softwire company can use interview
because this will assist in analysing large number of customers point of views and reviews
regarding their goods and facilities.

REFERENCES
Books and Journal
Aral, S., Brynjolfsson, E. and Wu, L., 2012. Three-way complementarities: Performance pay,
human resource analytics, and information technology. Management Science. 58(5).
pp.913-931.
Asogwa, B. E., 2012. The challenge of managing electronic records in developing countries:
Implications for records managers in sub Saharan Africa. Records Management
Journal. 22(3). pp.198-211.
Bardhan, I. R. and Thouin, M. F., 2013. Health information technology and its impact on the
quality and cost of healthcare delivery. Decision Support Systems. 55(2). pp.438-449.
Bermès, E. and Fauduet, L., 2011. The Human Face of Digital Preservation: Organizational and
Staff Challenges, and Initiatives at the Bibliothèque nationale de France. International
Journal of Digital Curation. 6(1). pp.226-237.
Crook, T. R. and et. al., 2011. Does human capital matter? A meta-analysis of the relationship
between human capital and firm performance.
De Groot, A. D., 2014. The meaning of “significance” for different types of research [translated
and annotated by Eric-Jan Wagenmakers, Denny Borsboom, Josine Verhagen, Rogier
Kievit, Marjan Bakker, Angelique Cramer, Dora Matzke, Don Mellenbergh, and Han LJ
van der Maas]. Acta psychologica. 148. pp.188-194.
Garrigos-Simon, F. J., Lapiedra Alcami, R. and Barbera Ribera, T., 2012. Social networks and
Web 3.0: their impact on the management and marketing of organizations. Management
Decision. 50(10). pp.1880-1890.
Guest, D. E., 2011. Human resource management and performance: still searching for some
answers. Human resource management journal. 21(1). pp.3-13.
Jiang, K. and et. al., 2012. How does human resource management influence organizational
outcomes? A meta-analytic investigation of mediating mechanisms. Academy of
management Journal. 55(6). pp.1264-1294.
Kallunki, J. P., Laitinen, E. K. and Silvola, H., 2011. Impact of enterprise resource planning
systems on management control systems and firm performance. International Journal
of Accounting Information Systems. 12(1). pp.20-39.
Laudon, K. C. and Laudon, J. P., 2016. Management information system. Pearson Education
India.
Love, L. F. and Singh, P., 2011. Workplace branding: Leveraging human resources management
practices for competitive advantage through “Best Employer” surveys. Journal of
Business and Psychology. 26(2). p.175.
Maditinos, D. and et. al., 2011. The impact of intellectual capital on firms' market value and
financial performance. Journal of intellectual capital. 12(1). pp.132-151.
Nambisan, S., 2013. Information technology and product/service innovation: A brief assessment
and some suggestions for future research. Journal of the Association for Information
Systems. 14(4). p.215.
Ochsner, M., Hug, S. E. and Daniel, H. D., 2012. Four types of research in the humanities:
Setting the stage for research quality criteria in the humanities. Research Evaluation.
22(2). pp.79-92.

Pardo, T. A., Nam, T. and Burke, G. B., 2012. E-government interoperability: Interaction of
policy, management, and technology dimensions. Social Science Computer Review.
30(1). pp.7-23.
Peppard, J. and Ward, J., 2016. The strategic management of information systems: Building a
digital strategy. John Wiley & Sons.
Rezaeian, M., 2014. A review on the diverse types of research misconduct. World Family
Medicine Journal: Incorporating the Middle East Journal of Family Medicine. 12(7).
pp.43-44.
Robinson, L. and et. al., 2015. Digital inequalities and why they matter. Information,
Communication & Society, 18(5), pp.569-582.
Sharma, S., Sharma, J. and Devi, A., 2011. Corporate social responsibility: The key role of
human resources management. Human Resource Management: Issues, Challenges and
Opportunities. 9.
Taj, S. and Morosan, C., 2011. The impact of lean operations on the Chinese manufacturing
performance. Journal of manufacturing technology management. 22(2). pp.223-240.
Tesch, R., 2013. Qualitative research: Analysis types and software. Routledge.
Online
Human Resource Management: Definition, Objectives & Responsibilities, 2017. [Online].
Available through: <https://study.com/academy/lesson/human-resource-management-
definition-objectives-responsibilities.html>.

APPENDIX
Research Proposal Form
Student Name: ______________________ Student ID: ______________________
Centre Name: _____________________
Tutor: ________________ Date: ___________________
Unit: ____________________
Proposed Title: To determine Impacts of digital technologies on SME's: A study on 4Com.
Section One: Title, objective, responsibilities
Title or working title of the research project (in the form of a question, objective or hypothesis)
Title : - “To evaluate the impact of digital tools and technologies on HRM practices” - A case study on Softwire
Ltd.
Research objectives (e.g what is the question you want to answer? What do you want to learn how to do?
What do you want to find out?):
Research objectives: -
 To ascertain the requirement of implementation of digital techniques within
organisation
 To evaluate the significance of effective HRM practices at Softwire Ltd.
 To determine the influence of digitalisation on human resource practices within
organisation
 To find out the ways of improving human resources practices in Softwire Ltd.
Section Two: Reasons for choosing this research project
Reasons for choosing the project (e.g links to other subjects you are studying, personal interest, future
plans, knowledge/skills you want to improve, why the topic is important):
Because of personal interest, this topic is chosen for research. It helps firms as they can use
latest technology then they may become big in upcoming time.
Another reason to chose this project as the aura of HRM practices is getting wide now,
companies are using digital and innovative technologies to hire employees.

Section Three: Literature sources searched
Use of key literature sources to support your research question, objective or hypothesis:
Digital tools and techniques are benefited to a business organisation, it allows companies to
work effectively and raising its productivity. According to Kallunki, Laitinen and Silvola,
2011, the word digitalisation means to manage overall working activities through computer
system, which is very advantageous for getting incorporate information. For example- digital
tools gives remote access to company for managing all networking areas. Human resource
management is a broad term which is used to manage overall workforce within organisation.
HRM practices refers to implementation of a HR strategy; the best practices put a huge impact
on employees. Love and Singh, 2011, states that it helps in providing adaptability and
flexibility to an organisation. Technology highly influence human resource practices. It
provides strategic advantage to the firms. It is necessary for every organisation to have skilled
and knowledgeable workforce which administer them competitive edge. According to
Nambisan, 2013, due to changing scenario and new technology evolution, meeting information
needs becomes important.
Books and Journal -
Robinson, L. and et. al., 2015. Digital inequalities and why they matter. Information,
Communication & Society, 18(5). pp.569-582.
Sharma, S., Sharma, J. and Devi, A., 2011. Corporate social responsibility: The key role of
human resources management. Human Resource Management: Issues, Challenges
and Opportunities. 9.
Taj, S. and Morosan, C., 2011. The impact of lean operations on the Chinese manufacturing
performance. Journal of manufacturing technology management. 22(2). pp.223-240.
Section Four: Activities and timescales
Activities to be carried out during the research project (e.g research, development and
analysis of ideas, writing, data collection, numerical analysis, tutor meetings,
production of final outcome, evaluation, writing the report):
How long this
will take:
5 days
2 day
4 days

Milestone one: _________________
Target date (set by tutor): ____________________
Milestone two: _______________________
Target date (set by tutor): ______________________
Section Five: Research approach and methodologies
What type of research approach and methodologies are you likely to use and why?
Research methodology is an activity through which information is gathered with an aim of
making business decisions. It involves public research, surveys, interviews, questionnaire and
other research techniques that is based on historical as well as present research. There are
different types of research can be used by researcher, such as- applied, qualitative and
quantitative research. In which, the present research project is based upon qualitative research
as it based upon a sample size of people which are interviewed for a specific purpose. An
effective research design offer an opportunity to researcher to make out working activities
effectively. Along with this there are three types of research design, such as- descriptive,
experimental and exploratory research design. the present research is based on descriptive
research design because it obtain data that is concern with current status of the phenomena. A
research philosophy involves nature, source and knowledge of research. Research philosophy
is classified into three parts, such as- positivism, interpretivisim and realism. the research
project is based upon positivism research philosophy as it uses qualitative data and
information. Research approach is divided into two parts, such as- deductive and inductive. In
which inductive research approach generalise from specific to general. Here, data collection is
used in order to explore identify themes and patterns. Data sampling is known as statistical
analysis technique which can be used so as to select and manipulate an allegorical subset of
data points for determining the patterns in larger data set being examined.
What your areas of research will cover:
The research is based upon the impact of digitalisation on performance level of small
businesses.

Comments and agreement from tutor
Comments (optional):
I confirm that the project is not work which has been or will be submitted for another qualification and is
appropriate.
Agreed: ________________ (name)_______________ Date ______________
Comments and agreement form project proposal checker( IV sampling)
Comments (Optional):
I confirm that the project is appropriate.
Agreed /Disagree: (Name of the IV) Date
Research Ethics approval form
Section 1: Basic details:
Project title: “To evaluate the impact of digital tools and technologies on HRM practices” - A case study on
Softwire Ltd.
Student name:
Student ID number:
Programme:
College Name:
Intended research start date:
Intended research end date:
Section 2 Project summary
Please select all research methods that you plan to use as a part of your project:
 Interviews Yes No
 Questionnaires Yes No
 Observations Yes No
 Use of personal records Yes No
 Data Analysis Yes No
 Action Research Yes No
 Focus Groups Yes No
 Others (Please specify) :