Software makes the right connections for BT's pay-review team
Purpose – Observes how software is helping telecommunications giant BT to manage its global pay-review process for more than 38,000 staff across seven lines of business and in over 60 of the countries within which BT operates. Design/methodology/approach – Considers the reasons for the system, the form it takes and the advantages it has brought over the years. Findings – Charts how BT has optimized its pay-review process through: a workflow-driven process that enables senior management to approve budgets and monitor progress in real-time; the facilitation of BT's share-incentive plans for staff; and a thorough approval process that offers the opportunity for management to see how pay is distributed and whether increases are justified. Practical implications – Explains that the web-based pay-review system has resulted in error reduction, a clear audit trail and greater transparency across the business. Social implications – Highlights a way in which companies can benchmark their pay rates against those in organizations across the world. Originality/value – Gives the inside story of how software enabled BT improved the efficiency and accuracy of its pay-review system.