Capita’s approach to HR and payroll can bring measurable benefits to your operations

First appeared in Government Business, July 2009

The current economic uncertainty has prompted both private and public sectors to review operational costs, efficiency, governance and risk and ask the question 'how can we do this better and more cost effectively?' But, even before the credit crunch hit, wasn't that the point of Gershon? Has the Gershon Review been successful in changing the way the public sector operates, particularly in HR?

Transforming the culture of any organisation requires a skill set that few possess. Inherent unwieldy processes, a lack of investment in new technology and a feeling of job security permeate many offices and lead to process inefficiencies delivering services at a cost over and above what should be considered the norm. Those that want to change the way that the office operates are often working within a limited budget and within an operating body that has more pressing and challenging targets to meet.

If modernisation and improvement are the real drivers, then by working in partnership with a third party outsourcing supplier, you can leverage their expertise to make cost savings, enhance processes and improve customer service.

Key stakeholders in some public sector organisations seem to have an aversion to outsourcing, as they feel that they will lose control over key processes and that jobs will be lost within the community, a political nono! But that is not necessarily the case. Businesses and public sector bodies outsource because, quite simply, it delivers. It’s a proven tool in improving performance and transforming customer service.

HR outsourcing presents a logical, low risk alternative to performing tasks in-house because it can cut expense, free up resources and allow organisations to concentrate on delivering value to its key stakeholders, the public. And nowadays there is no need to limit HR outsourcing to simple, mechanical functions like payroll.

Capita HR & Payroll Services, the largest provider of HR and Payroll services in the UK, has been delivering HR outsourcing services for over 20 years. It recently won the contract to provide services to Sheffield City Council. The contract was signed in November 2008 and by early January 2009 Capita was already delivering services. The transformation process continues.

Capita is also delivering services at Swindon, Southampton and Blackburn. Whilst there will always be local variations, the models used are broadly similar and key stakeholders are delighted to have taken the giant ‘leap’ out of their comfort zones. Processes are improved, employees are happy and money has been saved.

The Gershon Review has had a positive impact on the way HR operates in the public sector.

For more information

For more information on Capita HR & Payroll Services and how they can help you, please contact Rebecca Stanswood on 01256 383903 or rebecca.stanswood@capita.co.uk