THE INTEGRATION OF ARTIFICIAL INTELLIGENCE INTO HUMAN RESOURCE MANAGEMENT: APPLICABILITY IN HR PROCESSES WITH A HYBRID APPROACH "HUMAN + AI"

The integration of artificial intelligence (AI) into human resource management (HRM) exists as a process to varying degrees in contemporary reality, while its extent and manner depend on the maturity of the organization. This paper examines the applicability of AI across all stages of the HR process and leads to the conclusion that a hybrid “human + AI” approach is needed. The aim is to outline the opportunities and limitations of using artificial intelligence in human resource management and to propose a conceptual framework in which the human factor retains its leading role. The empirical basis is formed by a study among leading experts in the field of HRM and organizational managers, conducted in parallel with a pilot study among organizations operating in the Republic of Bulgaria. The results confirm various degrees of AI applicability across HR processes, the significance of ethical and regulatory conditions, and the need for human control in making sensitive decisions. On this basis, a “human + AI” conceptual framework is proposed for innovative human resource management.