The Challenges of Implementing Robotic Process Automation in Global Business Services

Organizations use a variety of automation tools to simplify their tasks. One of the tools is Robotic Process Automation (RPA). Recently the issues of the less-than-successful use of the system have been raised. To address this issue, the aim of this study is to understand the challenges of implementing RPA in Global Business Services (GBS) industry. The study is conducted using an in-depth case study approach and interviews at one of the world’s largest oil and gas organizations in the GBS industry. The result of the study showed that the organization is facing various challenges and issues during and after implementing the RPA technology in their organization. Amongst the challenges are the limitation of the task that can be automated, system failure, and safety and data privacy issues. The study suggested that good planning during the implementation of RPA and a strong security team are crucial in solving the challenges faced by the organization.

Characteristics of the Factors Affecting the Performance of the Global Business Services Sector in Latvia

In Latvia, the global business services sector accounts for 2.3 % of GDP, and its share in total service exports is 8 %, while the turnover of the sector in 2019 was estimated at EUR 400 mln., which indicates that the global business services sector in Latvia is an important component of the national economy. The global business services sector in Latvia has developed relatively recently, so it has not yet been sufficiently assessed and researched. The aim of the research is to describe the factors affecting the development of the global business services sector in Latvia. The research concluded that the global business services sector in Latvia was promoted by such factors as the availability of labour and low labour costs, as well as a relatively favourable business environment. The potential of the global business services sector in Latvia is also characterized by its advantageous geographical location, especially from the perspective of Scandinavian investors (including in terms of cultural similarities), as well as the foreign language skills of potential employees. The establishment of the Association of Business Service Leaders in Latvia (ABSL Latvia) (the only such an association in the Baltic States that defends the interests of this sector) is also an important driver for the development of the sector.

Sustainability of Impact Sourcing Initiatives in Higher Education for Graduates’ Employability

Impact sourcing (ImS) initiatives in higher education play important roles in the employability of graduates, especially in the global business services (GBS) industry. This study explores the sustainability of ImS in higher education institutions (HEIs) for graduates’ employability. This study used qualitative research methodology, collecting data from related documents, observations, interviews, and focus groups with selected students, lecturers, and industry practitioners. The data were analyzed using Sen’s capability framework, with the primary objective of analyzing individual capabilities—specifically, conversions, resources, and capabilities. The findings show that ImS could improve future graduates’ technical and soft skills, thereby enhancing their employability in the GBS industry. Some constraints that need to be overcome include the infrastructure, rewards, and incentives, as well as system reliability. This study contributes to the development of the capability framework for ImS initiatives in relation to the employability of graduates and other marginalized communities. The conversions, resources, and capabilities should be considered when assessing the impact of ImS. In addition, this study contributes to the talent pool agenda with a specific focus on ImS and graduates’ employability.

Digital Upskilling During a Pandemic

Pulling out his map and compass, Paul D Jagger CITP FBCS — IBM Global Business Services — Talent and Transformation — considers how Covid-19 has fundamentally altered how learning and development programmes should be designed and deployed.

Shared Services weltweit integriert.

The Global Business Services Model is often suggested for organizing the shared service centers of a company. An explorative study on the GBS model in practice is conducted in four companies. It shows many benefits, but also challenges, for which, however, companies have found solutions. While the overall assessment of the GBS model is positive, there are circumstances under which it is recommended.