Build, Buy, or Mesh? The New HR Tech Decision

In this joint presentation by Harbinger Group and Sapient Insights Group, explore how AI is reshaping the HR technology market in a way that goes beyond automation hype: enterprises are increasingly becoming HR tech developers, not just HR tech buyers. We’ll look at why organizations are choosing to build their own tools and workflows, which use cases are gaining the most momentum, and how the balance between build and buy is changing across the market.

Drawing on market data and client experience, the session will examine two distinct paths emerging in the enterprise landscape. Large organizations with deep technical resources are building with the sophistication of software vendors, while mid-market employers are looking for safer, faster ways to create AI-enabled workflows without replacing their existing HR systems. We’ll discuss what this means for core areas like workforce planning, performance management, and cross-functional decision-making, as well as the governance, security, and ownership challenges that come with in-house development.

The session will also introduce the concept of a Talent Mesh, a framework for connecting fragmented HR and business data across multiple platforms so organizations can build seamless, secure workflows within their own environments. Rather than viewing enterprise development as a threat, vendors may find new opportunities to stay relevant by integrating into these emerging architectures. Attendees will leave with a practical understanding of where build-vs-buy is heading, what kinds of development are most viable, and how enterprises, service providers, and point-solution vendors can all play a role in the next phase of HR tech.