This research review papers shows how HR departments need to optimize the way their organizations use human resources, and to be as efficient as possible themselves. They need to make better and faster decisions, to match people better to requirements, and at the same time to reduce costs. As an HR director, you’re probably aware that you could achieve your aims more effectively through better use of data. For example, when a business need arises, you need to be able to see at a glance whether you have the right person available internally or need to look outside. In the latter case, you then typically face the additional challenge of scanning large volumes of applications or CVs/résumés. Fortunately, with today’s technology, it’s possible to automate much of the work of matching people to requirements. You can also bring together structured and unstructured data to learn more about the potential of your own staff, and take advantage of information available in social networks to find out about potential recruits. With recent advances, all this can be achieved without major investment in technology and related skills. Applying advanced analytics effectively to HR challenges is the aim of our new offer, People Analytics.