Nearly three-quarters of employers (73 per cent) say their day-to-day human resources responsibilities have increased over the past few years, prompting them to seek streamlined benefits solutions, according to a new survey by the Hartford.
The survey of 500 U.S. employers found 64 per cent of HR professionals said managing multiple benefits carriers is challenging. At least two in three respondents cited simplicity and cost as leading factors when selecting a single non-medical carrier.
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The survey noted employers are looking for “one-stop-shop” solutions that combine enrollment tools, simple leave products, integrated administration, seamless technology and claims expertise into a single offering.
Eighty-five per cent of respondents said they’re still exploring how to most effectively use artificial intelligence in the workplace, while 82 per cent said they’re comfortable using AI for some parts of their job. Ninety-five per cent said they want digital tools for simple or transactional tasks and a human for sensitive or complex issues.
The study also found 79 per cent of employers said educating employees about benefits remains a challenge, while 95 per cent said they took action to improve their 2026 open enrollment experience, with many using digital tools or AI-driven recommendation engines.
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