Global design leader
Vitra, known for its intuitive, functional, and enduring furniture, has taken principles usually reserved for product design and applied them to human resources transformation. Rather than viewing digital HR systems purely as operational tools, Vitra saw an opportunity to reinvent HR to reflect its core design philosophy: simplicity, usability, and meaningful human experience.
Why Design Thinking Belongs in HR Technology
Founded in 1950, Vitra quickly scaled globally, leaving its HR process fragmented, relying on disconnected systems that hindered transparency and efficiency. This mindset shift led Vitra to adopt SAP SuccessFactors, not simply to consolidate systems but to create an experience that felt intuitive and empowering for employees. Unlike traditional HR systems that focus on administrative tasks, Vitra’s SuccessFactors implementation puts the user first, mirroring the expectations employees have from modern consumer applications.
Sonja Hornberger, Chief Human Resources Officer at Vitra, explains, "Before SAP SuccessFactors, we had a number of disjointed tools that didn't communicate with each other. Managers lacked visibility into employee data and job postings, and employees lacked self-service options for things like requesting leave. Overall, it was inefficient and frustrating."
Design Principles in Practice
- Intuitive Interfaces: SuccessFactors delivers a “what you see is what you get” experience, reducing reliance on training manuals and increasing adoption.
- Anywhere Access: Mobile-enabled HR processes empower employees to handle tasks like leave requests and learning activities from any device.
- Real-Time Insights: Managers gain immediate visibility into workforce data, enhancing decision-making and organizational responsiveness.
Humanizing HR Through Small Moments
Beyond efficiency and usability, Vitra turned its HR platform into a tool for cultural reinforcement. Features such as birthday reminders, service anniversary recognitions, and peer acknowledgments help make everyday HR interactions more meaningful. These seemingly small experiences matter; they contribute to a sense of belonging and reinforce organizational values.
HR leaders observing Vitra’s transformation highlight how HR technology that prioritizes the human experience can strengthen workplace culture rather than merely streamline administrative tasks.
What This Means for SAPinsiders
User experience isn’t just for consumers; it’s a competitive HR advantage. Employees increasingly expect workplace systems to match the intuitiveness of consumer apps. Insiders should champion HR solutions that minimize training friction and elevate employee satisfaction.
HR tech that reflects organizational values encourages a stronger employee culture. Choosing technology isn’t just a functional decision, it’s a cultural one. Aligning platforms like SuccessFactors with broader company philosophies (e.g., design, sustainability) increases both adoption and cultural cohesion.
Small human-centered features drive big engagement. Recognition tools and personalized interactions—often overlooked—can significantly impact morale and retention.
SAP SuccessFactors can connect traditionally siloed HR functions, performance, pay, recruiting, learning, career development, and workforce data, into one ecosystem.
