Introduction
In 2020, Microsoft reaffirmed its commitment to transforming Human Resources with the rebranding of its core HR platform as Microsoft Dynamics 365 Human Resources. This evolution reflects Microsoft’s focus on delivering modern, connected, and intelligent HR solutions that empower employees and enable businesses to build winning teams.
As organizations adapt to a rapidly changing work environment, Microsoft is prioritizing four key areas to strengthen its HR technology roadmap and partnerships—ensuring a more agile, data-driven, and employee-centric future.
Transforming Employee Experiences
A core focus of Dynamics 365 Human Resources is improving how employees interact with HR systems. Traditional HR practices are being replaced with:
Modern and mobile self-service tools
Mixed reality experiences for immersive learning and onboarding
Guided task execution without dependency on HR teams
Employees are now empowered to access the information they need—on their terms—enhancing satisfaction and productivity.
Optimizing HR Programs
ynamics 365 Human Resources optimizes essential HR operations, including:
Benefits and compensation management
Leave and absence tracking
Time and attendance (via FourVision integration)
Certifications, training, and compliance tracking
Payroll system integration
With smart automation and built-in flexibility, HR teams can tailor and enhance programs to better support employees while ensuring compliance and operational efficiency.
Improving Organizational Agility
In 2020, agility is not just a competitive advantage—it’s a necessity. Dynamics 365 Human Resources delivers:
Scalable, secure HR solutions
Easy customization through Microsoft Power Platform
Connectivity to existing systems via open APIs
This enables organizations to quickly respond to changes in workforce structure, policy, or compliance needs, and support diverse global operations with ease.
Enabling Workforce Insights
One of the most powerful aspects of Dynamics 365 Human Resources is its integration with Microsoft’s analytics and AI platforms:
Centralized HR data across the organization
Built-in Power BI dashboards for real-time people insights
Predictive analytics to inform workforce planning and retention strategies
This data-driven approach equips HR professionals and leaders with the intelligence they need to make smarter, faster decisions about their people.
New Capabilities and Strategic Investments
In October 2019, Microsoft announced investments in the FourVision and Elevate HR solutions. These strategic acquisitions accelerate innovation in key areas such as:
Leave and absence management
Time and attendance
Benefits administration
These capabilities began rolling out in early 2020 as part of the new Dynamics 365 Human Resources experience.
Transitioning from Talent to Human Resources
As Microsoft focuses on strengthening its core HR capabilities, it is retiring Dynamics 365 Talent: Attract and Onboard. These applications will remain supported until February 1, 2022, allowing organizations ample time to transition.
To support customers, Microsoft recommends LinkedIn Talent Hub, a next-generation Applicant Tracking System (ATS) that provides:
End-to-end visibility from sourcing to hiring
Integrated interviews, pipelines, and offer management
Intelligent insights from over 500 million LinkedIn members
Additionally, LinkedIn Recruiter System Connect (RSC) offers seamless integration with leading ATS platforms, ensuring recruiting efficiency with up-to-date LinkedIn data.
Looking Ahead
With Dynamics 365 Human Resources as the foundation and LinkedIn as a strategic partner in talent acquisition, Microsoft continues to deliver integrated HR solutions that help organizations:
Digitally transform their HR practices
Build high-performing, data-driven HR programs
Empower employees and foster a thriving workplace
Microsoft is committed to creating value across the entire HR function and looks forward to deeper innovation in collaboration with LinkedIn to redefine the future of work.
