The Hidden Cost of Underestimating HR in Transformation Projects
HR Change Insights Series
In transformation projects, HR is often labelled ‘workstream 7’ – important, but not critical. Then the go-live date approaches, and HR becomes the bottleneck that stops everything. This article explores why HR delivery is the often-overlooked dependency in transformation, and how consultancies can plan for it to protect timelines, budgets, and reputation.
Transformation Success Depends on People Movement
Every transformation project (system implementation, structural change, or acquisition), ultimately depends on people moving. If employees aren’t consulted, informed, or transitioned properly, the transformation cannot launch as intended. Recognising HR as a core dependency prevents last-minute surprises.
TUPE, Redundancy, and Consultation Are Not Administrative Tasks
These processes are legal, procedural, and time-sensitive. Treating them as administrative details underestimates their complexity and risk. Consultancies that plan for these dependencies early ensure compliance and maintain project momentum.
Underestimating HR Workload Creates Cascading Risks
When HR workload is underestimated, milestones slip. Documentation errors lead to rework, compliance gaps trigger delays, and internal teams become overrun. Recognising HR effort in resourcing and scheduling protects the entire project.
Factor HR Delivery Capacity Into Every Project Plan
Include HR delivery as a distinct workstream in project design. Assign clear ownership and ensure appropriate resource. Where clients lack in-house capacity, recommend specialist delivery partners to ensure continuity and compliance.
Build Partnerships with Delivery Specialists Early
Embedding HR delivery experts early reduces project risk and enhances client satisfaction. This partnership frees your consultancy to focus on strategic outcomes while ensuring that every people-related milestone lands on time.
Don’t let HR be the reason transformation stalls
We help consultancies and project leads identify HR delivery as a core dependency early, safeguarding timelines, compliance, and stakeholder confidence.
