The HRCI Research Hub brings together original studies, workforce polling, reports, and expert analysis, so you can act on what's happening now and prepare for what's next.
The State of HR Featured ReportsRecovery as a Workforce Strategy
Drawing on HRCI research, workforce data, and expert insight, this report examines the workplace impact of substance use disorder and the practical steps HR can take to strengthen culture, manager readiness, benefits, policies, and recovery support.
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Original research and expert analysis on the issues shaping HR today, from workforce safety and emerging technology to DEI and employee well-being.
From return-to-office decisions and hybrid work to contractors and other non-traditional workers, this HRCI report explores the latest research and how HR can use data to make more informed, evidence-based workplace decisions.
From career paths to culture, this research identifies what actually separates HR professionals who are just getting by from those who are truly fulfilled—and what leaders can do to close that gap and build a more committed team.
This research uncovers where professional development is falling short, from misaligned training priorities to gaps in AI readiness, and what it takes to build a workforce equipped for what's next.
From bullying, political tension to substance use and violence prevention, this research covers workplace safety—what the data reveals, what's at stake, and what you can do to reduce risk and build a more resilient organization.
The State of HR
Based on HRCI’s survey of thousands of HR professionals, the State of HR report examines the issues defining the profession today. From AI and workplace culture to talent, leadership, and career growth, the report reveals how HR teams are adapting to change and preparing for the future. Explore the data, trends, and insights shaping the world of work below.
Download the Full ReportState of HR Spotlight Reports
Half of HR professionals work in environments marked by polarized viewpoints, and 4 in 10 describe their stress as extreme or high. Find out what the data reveals about conflict, mental health, and what it means for your organization.
HR professionals are broadly optimistic about their field — but over 4 in 10 are considering careers outside of it. Explore what's driving both the enthusiasm and the tension, and what it takes to build a team of true HR believers.
71% of HR professionals use AI regularly, yet more than half say implementing new technology is the area they feel least prepared to handle. See where the preparation gap is widest and what needs to change now.
83% of HR professionals believe remote work benefits organizations—but the debate is far from settled. Get the data on where HR stands on flexibility, productivity, and the return-to-office conversation.
More Insights for HR Professionals
Explore the issues shaping HR today and get the data you need to lead with confidence, make informed decisions, and move the profession forward.
Recovery friendly workplaces reduce absenteeism, improve retention, and strengthen workplace culture—yet most organizations haven't made meaningful progress. This HRCI and Fors Marsh research reveals why: stigma, undertrained HR teams, and weak leadership buy-in top the list. Understand where the gaps are and what organizations that get it right do differently.
Earning an HRCI certification builds earning power. Within four years, the median HRCI certificant earns 33% more than they did before getting certified. That's double the salary growth of comparable HR professionals over the same period. See what the data shows about the career and financial impact of HRCI certification.
HR is ready to lead, but is the organization ready to let it? This 2024 HRCI and MindEdge research report surfaces a striking disconnect: while 88% of HR professionals believe HR should drive business strategy, only half say leadership agrees. Add in underfunding, understaffing, and persistent burnout, and the case for rethinking HR's role has never been stronger.
AI is reshaping the workplace, and HR professionals are watching closely. This HRCI and MindEdge survey of HR practitioners reveals how the profession is navigating AI adoption, persistent burnout, rising turnover, and the evolving push and pull of remote work. Find out where your peers stand, and what the data means for the work you do every day.
Browse our complete library of research reports, guides, and frameworks. Whether you're building a business case, navigating a workforce challenge, or staying ahead of what's next, the intelligence you need is here.
From rising absenteeism to safety risks, HRCI research reveals how extreme weather is reshaping workforce management and what HR can do now.
Over three-quarters of HR professionals use AI weekly, but most have had little to no training. Learn how to build real confidence and capability starting today.
Explore how HR can turn AI adoption into a strategic advantage—balancing innovation with ethical responsibility.
This research-backed guide gives HR professionals the data and practical steps to build a recovery-friendly culture that reduces risk and supports your people.
The report explores the realities of managing DEI programs in today’s climate—where values alignment, stakeholder trust, and business performance are all on the line.
This report provides critical insights and actionable strategies for HR leaders to foster a more harmonious and productive work environment.
HRCI webinars go beyond the basics. Each session unpacks the trends, data, and real-world strategies HR professionals need to lead with confidence today and adapt to what's coming next.
News and perspectives on the issues driving the HR profession forward.
David Dacorro was ready to head to a testing center and take his Global Professional in Human Resources (GPHR®) exam. Unfortunately, testing centers across the U.S were closed due to the COVID-19 pandemic. HRCI partnered with PearsonVue and began using OnVue, their online proctoring platform.
The online exam content and delivery system are the same — the platform, feel and functionality, as well as the navigation tools. When Dacorro was notified there was an alternate exam opportunity, he was excited to take the online exam from the comfort of his home.
Dacorro admitted that he felt a little nervous about taking the exam online, but didn’t let nerves stand in the way of achieving his goals. “It’s a matter of being prepared and knowing what to expect,” he says. “HRCI provided great instructions on what to do prior to the exam.”
Being prepared paid off — Dacorro is the first person to pass the GPHR™ exam online. We asked Dacorro to share his advice for passing the online exam.
Make sure you read all the exam instructions ahead of time so you know what to expect from the verification and set-up process. Taking the exam online differs from taking the exam in person. For online exams, you will need to verify your identity using the process outlined by Pearson VUE. HRCI has also provided a detailed list of Frequently Asked Questions.
Dacorro suggests keeping your smartphone handy before the exam begins. OnVue, PearsonVUE’s online delivery system, requires candidates to take and submit photos of your exam space prior to launching your exam. You will also need to submit photos of your government-issued license or passport for identity verification. Be aware that your webcam will be on and an image of yourself on the screen during the exam will be visible at all times.
Taking the exam at home, you want to ensure you have complied with a proper test space. Your office or home setting must be walled, have a closed door and be free from disruptions.
Communicating with the rest of your household is critical. If you have roommates, a spouse or children, make sure they know that you need three and a half hours of quiet time. If you have pets, make sure they’re situated with food and water so they don’t present a distraction.
“If you’re taking it in the morning, wake up an hour early to get ready,” Dacorro suggests. Even though you don’t have to budget travel time, this gives you time to eat, hydrate and mentally prepare yourself for the exam.
When taking the exam at a testing center, you usually have one break to use the restroom or stretch your legs. That isn’t the case with the online exam, Dacorro points out. You will be sitting at your laptop for the duration of the exam. Please take precautions to prevent the need for bathroom breaks and be sure your workspace is comfortable for the duration of the exam.
When taking the exam in person, the testing center computers are equipped with the technology required for the exam, Dacorro points out. When you take the exam online, you use your own personal computer. “A week prior, download the software and check to make sure it’s compatible with your laptop,” Dacorro suggests. If it isn't, you may have to make arrangements to access a computer that is compatible.
Certain adware you have running on your laptop could affect the testing software, too. It may use a popup to confirm your consent before running the program, Dacorro says. “Your firewall could prevent the software from functioning,” he says. “This could delay taking the exam.” Disable firewalls and pop-up blockers before trying to run the software to prevent technical hiccups the day of the exam. “All you should have to worry about on exam day is passing your exam,” Dacorro says.