Return on a talent management investment might seem as real as the flying monkeys of Oz sometimes. Putting a hard dollar amount on complicated, extensive systems is daunting, and finding willing parties to research and dig through the numbers is rare.

We’re all familiar with the “Wicked Witch of the West” facts: turnover rates that easily reach triple digits; the cost of disengaged employees; and the repercussions of hiring a “dud.” But what if we told you a fully featured talent management system could slash those costs and turn them into returns?

In any psychology or sociology class you’ve taken, you’ve probably heard the story of Kitty Genovese- the young woman who was brutally murdered while 38 (disputable) neighbors and bystanders failed to notify the police or intervene. The case represents a social psychology phenomenon where individuals do not offer help in an emergency situation when other people are present. Studies show the greater the number of bystanders, the less likely any one of them will help.

It’s a universally known truth that no one throws a launch event quite like Steve Jobs. Apple’s products are innovative, sleek and practical; its launches: impressive and inspiring. And they’ve had quite a few chances to perfect the craft. Apple products are the tech world’s equivalent of Kevin Bacon: someone you know owns a Mac, an iPod, an iPhone or, if you’re lucky, an iPad.

Welcome to the PeopleMatter Institute’s blog – your newest addiction that delivers the latest HR, talent management and service industry trends, topics and technologies in one, insightful serving.

©2013 PeopleMatter