Social media platforms that foster collaboration and innovation will continue to develop. As technology improves, business use of mobile devices and cloud computing will continue to expand, especially in the human resources (HR) arena, according to CUNA’s 2012-2013 Credit Union E-Scan.

CUNA’s annual strategic planning resource outlines several technologies and tactics that are helping HR professionals do their jobs. They include:

►Video conferencing. As the cost of video job interviews and video conferencing decrease, their use in recruiting and interviewing job candidates will become even more widespread.

►HR applications for mobile systems, including recruiting, job applicant tracking, and payroll administration. Employers are using software as a service (SAAS) for salary planning, talent management, and employee data housing.

It’s easier for employers to measure productivity levels and success rates of HR initiatives by housing data in analytical data warehouses, E-Scan reports.

►Cloud technology. Many view cloud computing as better, faster, and cheaper than loading software on a personal computer. Plus, freedom from long-term investments in equipment and software allows for a more fluid, adaptive business environment.

Even businesses with lean budgets can use cloud software and applications that provide pay-as-you-go flexibility.

►Personal mobile devices. Workers will find new ways to use mobile devices at work. Those accustomed to mobile apps that provide convenience in their personal lives will expect mobile apps to provide convenience in their work lives, too.

If your credit union allows employees to use smartphones and tablets, however, develop policies governing use and access.

These devices have become so ingrained in workers’ daily lives that asking them not to bring them to work isn’t realistic. And policies that restrict personal electronic devices can backfire—even causing some workers to seek employment elsewhere.

►Social recruiting. This practice will increase, especially among companies having trouble finding job applicants with particular skills. Although recruiters will continue to rely on Facebook, LinkedIn, and Twitter, new recruiting apps undoubtedly will appear.

►Co-working facilities. The virtual workplace is becoming more common as new technologies emerge. Co-working facilities—or shared work spaces—could be a step between the traditional office and the virtual office.

Co-working allows for both face-to-face and virtual office interactions while allowing employees to manage their own schedules and workflow. The reduced office space lowers employers’ fixed expenses.

Cloud computing, business mobile applications, and social media are reshaping how organizations conduct business, CUNA’s E-Scan reports. Expect credit unions’ use of these and other new technologies will grow in the coming years.