Harvard Case - HCL Technologies: Leveraging Technology for Talent Acquisition Transformation
"HCL Technologies: Leveraging Technology for Talent Acquisition Transformation" Harvard business case study is written by Yogita Patra, Richa Saxena, Sunil Sharma. It deals with the challenges in the field of Human Resource Management. The case study is 17 page(s) long and it was first published on : Aug 8, 2021
At Fern Fort University, we recommend that HCL Technologies implement a comprehensive talent acquisition transformation strategy leveraging technology to streamline processes, enhance candidate experience, and build a diverse and high-performing workforce. This strategy will focus on leveraging technology to automate tasks, improve data analytics, and create a more engaging and personalized candidate journey.
2. Background
HCL Technologies, a global IT services and consulting company, faced challenges in its talent acquisition process due to rapid growth and increasing competition for skilled talent. The traditional recruitment process was inefficient, time-consuming, and lacked the ability to attract and retain top talent. The case study highlights the need for a more strategic and technology-driven approach to talent acquisition.
The main protagonists of the case study are:
- HCL Technologies: A global IT services and consulting company seeking to transform its talent acquisition process.
- The Talent Acquisition Team: The team responsible for attracting, screening, and hiring candidates.
- The Leadership Team: Responsible for setting the strategic direction for the company and approving initiatives like talent acquisition transformation.
3. Analysis of the Case Study
The case study highlights several key issues that HCL Technologies needs to address:
Talent Management:
- Inefficient Recruitment Process: The traditional process was manual, time-consuming, and lacked agility to adapt to changing market conditions.
- Lack of Data-Driven Insights: The absence of robust data analytics hindered the ability to understand candidate behavior, measure effectiveness, and make informed decisions.
- Limited Candidate Engagement: The traditional process lacked personalized communication and engagement, leading to a poor candidate experience.
- Diversity and Inclusion Challenges: The lack of diversity and inclusion initiatives resulted in a less diverse workforce, limiting the company's ability to tap into a wider pool of talent.
Strategic HR Planning:
- Outdated HR Strategy: The HR strategy lacked a clear vision for talent acquisition, failing to align with the company's growth objectives.
- Lack of Technology Integration: The absence of technology integration in the talent acquisition process hindered efficiency and effectiveness.
- Limited Investment in Talent Development: The company lacked a robust talent development strategy to retain and develop its existing workforce.
Organizational Development:
- Siloed Operations: The HR department operated in silos, leading to a lack of collaboration and communication.
- Resistance to Change: The organization lacked a clear change management strategy to overcome resistance to adopting new technologies and processes.
Performance Management:
- Limited Performance Metrics: The company lacked clear performance metrics to track the effectiveness of its talent acquisition efforts.
- Lack of Feedback Mechanisms: The absence of feedback mechanisms hindered the ability to identify areas for improvement in the talent acquisition process.
Employee Engagement:
- Low Employee Morale: The lack of a strong employee engagement strategy resulted in low morale and decreased productivity.
- Limited Career Development Opportunities: The company lacked robust career development programs to retain and motivate employees.
Recruitment Strategies:
- Passive Recruitment: The company relied heavily on passive recruitment methods, limiting its reach to a wider pool of talent.
- Lack of Employer Branding: The company lacked a strong employer brand, making it difficult to attract top talent.
Employee Retention:
- High Attrition Rates: The company experienced high attrition rates, indicating a need for improved employee retention strategies.
- Lack of Employee Value Proposition: The company lacked a clear employee value proposition, making it difficult to attract and retain top talent.
Leadership Development:
- Lack of Leadership Alignment: The leadership team lacked a clear understanding of the importance of talent acquisition and its impact on the company's success.
- Limited Investment in Leadership Development: The company lacked robust leadership development programs to prepare future leaders.
Change Management:
- Resistance to Change: The company faced resistance to change from employees who were accustomed to the traditional recruitment process.
- Lack of Communication and Engagement: The company lacked a clear communication and engagement strategy to manage change effectively.
Corporate Culture:
- Lack of Innovation: The company's culture lacked a strong emphasis on innovation, hindering its ability to attract and retain top talent.
- Limited Diversity and Inclusion: The company's culture lacked a strong focus on diversity and inclusion, limiting its ability to tap into a wider pool of talent.
Diversity and Inclusion:
- Lack of Diversity Initiatives: The company lacked a comprehensive diversity and inclusion strategy to attract and retain a diverse workforce.
- Limited Representation of Diverse Groups: The company's workforce lacked representation of diverse groups, hindering its ability to benefit from a wider range of perspectives and experiences.
Succession Planning:
- Lack of Succession Planning: The company lacked a robust succession planning strategy to identify and develop future leaders.
- Limited Talent Pipeline: The company lacked a strong talent pipeline to fill key leadership positions.
Compensation and Benefits:
- Uncompetitive Compensation: The company's compensation and benefits package was not competitive, making it difficult to attract and retain top talent.
- Lack of Flexible Work Arrangements: The company lacked flexible work arrangements to attract and retain a diverse workforce.
Training and Development:
- Limited Training Opportunities: The company offered limited training opportunities to its employees, hindering their career development.
- Lack of Skill Development Programs: The company lacked programs to develop the skills needed for the future of work.
HR Analytics:
- Limited Data Analysis Capabilities: The company lacked the ability to analyze data effectively to understand candidate behavior and improve recruitment processes.
- Lack of Key Performance Indicators (KPIs): The company lacked clear KPIs to track the effectiveness of its talent acquisition efforts.
Employee Relations:
- Limited Employee Communication: The company lacked effective communication channels to engage with employees and address their concerns.
- Lack of Employee Feedback Mechanisms: The company lacked mechanisms to gather employee feedback and address their concerns.
Labor Laws Compliance:
- Compliance Risks: The company faced potential compliance risks related to labor laws in different countries.
- Lack of Legal Expertise: The company lacked the legal expertise to ensure compliance with labor laws.
Workforce Planning:
- Lack of Strategic Workforce Planning: The company lacked a strategic workforce planning process to anticipate future talent needs.
- Limited Talent Forecasting: The company lacked the ability to forecast future talent requirements.
Job Analysis:
- Outdated Job Descriptions: The company's job descriptions were outdated and did not reflect the changing needs of the business.
- Lack of Job Analysis Processes: The company lacked a robust job analysis process to identify the skills and competencies required for each role.
Performance Appraisal:
- Subjective Performance Appraisals: The company's performance appraisals were subjective and lacked a clear framework for evaluation.
- Limited Feedback Mechanisms: The company lacked effective feedback mechanisms to provide employees with constructive feedback.
HR Strategy Alignment:
- Lack of Alignment with Business Strategy: The HR strategy was not aligned with the company's business strategy.
- Limited Communication and Collaboration: The HR department lacked effective communication and collaboration with other departments.
Organizational Behavior:
- Lack of Employee Motivation: The company lacked effective strategies to motivate employees and improve performance.
- Limited Employee Empowerment: The company lacked a culture of employee empowerment, hindering innovation and creativity.
Employee Motivation:
- Lack of Recognition and Rewards: The company lacked a system for recognizing and rewarding employee contributions.
- Limited Opportunities for Growth: The company offered limited opportunities for career growth and development.
Conflict Resolution:
- Lack of Conflict Resolution Mechanisms: The company lacked effective mechanisms for resolving conflicts between employees.
- Limited Training in Conflict Management: The company lacked training in conflict management skills for employees and managers.
HR Information Systems (HRIS):
- Outdated HRIS: The company's HRIS was outdated and lacked the functionality to support a modern talent acquisition process.
- Lack of Data Integration: The HRIS lacked the ability to integrate with other systems, hindering data analysis and reporting.
Outsourcing HR Functions:
- Limited Use of Outsourcing: The company limited its use of outsourcing for HR functions, potentially missing opportunities for cost savings and efficiency.
- Lack of Outsourcing Expertise: The company lacked the expertise to manage outsourcing effectively.
Ethics in HRM:
- Ethical Concerns: The company faced potential ethical concerns related to its recruitment practices.
- Lack of Ethical Guidelines: The company lacked clear ethical guidelines for its HR practices.
Global HR Management:
- Challenges in Managing a Global Workforce: The company faced challenges in managing a global workforce with diverse cultures and regulations.
- Lack of Global HR Expertise: The company lacked the global HR expertise to manage a diverse workforce effectively.
Mergers and Acquisitions HR:
- Limited Experience in M&A HR: The company lacked experience in managing HR aspects of mergers and acquisitions.
- Lack of Integration Strategies: The company lacked clear strategies for integrating HR systems and processes after acquisitions.
Employee Wellness Programs:
- Limited Employee Wellness Programs: The company offered limited employee wellness programs to support employee health and well-being.
- Lack of Investment in Employee Wellness: The company lacked investment in employee wellness programs.
Career Development:
- Limited Career Development Opportunities: The company offered limited career development opportunities to its employees.
- Lack of Career Planning Support: The company lacked support for employees in developing their career plans.
Exit Interviews:
- Limited Use of Exit Interviews: The company limited its use of exit interviews to gather feedback from departing employees.
- Lack of Actionable Insights: The company lacked the ability to use exit interview data to improve its HR practices.
HR Metrics:
- Limited Use of HR Metrics: The company limited its use of HR metrics to track the effectiveness of its HR practices.
- Lack of Data-Driven Decision Making: The company lacked the ability to make data-driven decisions based on HR metrics.
Employee Lifecycle:
- Lack of a Holistic Employee Lifecycle Approach: The company lacked a holistic approach to managing the employee lifecycle from recruitment to retirement.
- Limited Focus on Employee Experience: The company lacked a focus on improving the employee experience throughout the employee lifecycle.
Recruitment Technology:
- Limited Use of Recruitment Technology: The company limited its use of recruitment technology to automate tasks and improve efficiency.
- Lack of Investment in Recruitment Technology: The company lacked investment in recruitment technology to enhance its talent acquisition capabilities.
Psychological Contracts:
- Lack of Clear Psychological Contracts: The company lacked clear psychological contracts with its employees, leading to misunderstandings and dissatisfaction.
- Limited Communication and Transparency: The company lacked effective communication and transparency with its employees about expectations and responsibilities.
Organizational Justice:
- Perceptions of Unfairness: Employees perceived a lack of fairness in the company's HR practices, leading to dissatisfaction and low morale.
- Limited Transparency and Accountability: The company lacked transparency and accountability in its HR practices.
Flexible Work Arrangements:
- Limited Flexible Work Arrangements: The company offered limited flexible work arrangements to its employees, hindering its ability to attract and retain a diverse workforce.
- Lack of Support for Flexible Work: The company lacked the infrastructure and support systems to enable flexible work arrangements.
Employee Surveys:
- Limited Use of Employee Surveys: The company limited its use of employee surveys to gather feedback from its employees.
- Lack of Actionable Insights: The company lacked the ability to use employee survey data to improve its HR practices.
HR Policy Development:
- Outdated HR Policies: The company's HR policies were outdated and did not reflect the changing needs of the business.
- Lack of Policy Review and Updates: The company lacked a process for reviewing and updating its HR policies.
Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR):
- Limited CSR Initiatives: The company had limited CSR initiatives related to diversity and inclusion.
- Lack of CSR Integration: The company lacked a clear strategy for integrating CSR into its HR practices.
Knowledge Management:
- Limited Knowledge Sharing: The company lacked a system for sharing knowledge and best practices within the HR department.
- Lack of Knowledge Management Tools: The company lacked the tools and processes to manage knowledge effectively.
Team Building:
- Limited Team Building Activities: The company offered limited team building activities to improve collaboration and communication within the HR department.
- Lack of Team Building Expertise: The company lacked expertise in team building and leadership development.
Employee Grievance Handling:
- Inefficient Grievance Handling Process: The company's grievance handling process was inefficient and time-consuming.
- Lack of Transparency and Fairness: The company lacked transparency and fairness in its grievance handling process.
HR Consulting:
- Limited Use of HR Consulting: The company limited its use of external HR consulting services.
- Lack of Consulting Expertise: The company lacked the expertise to select and manage HR consulting services effectively.
Workforce Diversity:
- Lack of Diversity Initiatives: The company lacked a comprehensive diversity and inclusion strategy to attract and retain a diverse workforce.
- Limited Representation of Diverse Groups: The company's workforce lacked representation of diverse groups, hindering its ability to benefit from a wider range of perspectives and experiences.
Employee Onboarding:
- Inefficient Onboarding Process: The company's onboarding process was inefficient and did not provide new employees with the necessary support and information.
- Lack of Onboarding Best Practices: The company lacked a clear understanding of onboarding best practices.
Strategic Alliances:
- Limited Strategic Alliances: The company had limited strategic alliances with other organizations to enhance its talent acquisition capabilities.
- Lack of Collaboration with Partners: The company lacked effective collaboration with its strategic partners.
HR Case Studies:
- Limited Use of HR Case Studies: The company limited its use of HR case studies to learn from best practices and improve its HR practices.
- Lack of Knowledge Sharing: The company lacked a system for sharing HR case studies and best practices within the organization.
Business Process Reengineering:
- Limited Business Process Reengineering: The company limited its use of business process reengineering to improve the efficiency of its HR processes.
- Lack of Process Improvement Expertise: The company lacked the expertise to conduct effective business process reengineering.
4. Recommendations
To address the challenges identified, HCL Technologies should implement the following recommendations:
1. Implement a Technology-Driven Talent Acquisition Strategy:
- Invest in a robust Applicant Tracking System (ATS): This will automate tasks, streamline the recruitment process, and provide valuable data insights.
- Integrate with social media platforms: Utilize LinkedIn, Twitter, and other platforms to reach a wider pool of talent and build a strong employer brand.
- Leverage AI-powered tools for candidate screening and matching: This will optimize the candidate selection process and improve the quality of hires.
- Develop a mobile-friendly application for candidate engagement: Provide a seamless and engaging experience for candidates on their mobile devices.
- Implement a data-driven approach to talent acquisition: Use analytics to track key performance indicators (KPIs), measure the effectiveness of recruitment campaigns, and identify areas for improvement.
2. Build a Strong Employer Brand:
- Develop a compelling employer value proposition: Clearly articulate the benefits of working at HCL Technologies, emphasizing its culture, values, and career development opportunities.
- Highlight diversity and inclusion initiatives: Showcase HCL Technologies' commitment to creating a diverse and inclusive workplace, attracting a wider range of talent.
- Engage with employees as brand ambassadors: Encourage employees to share their positive experiences working at HCL Technologies on social media and other platforms.
- Participate in industry events and conferences: Increase visibility and attract top talent by actively participating in industry events and conferences.
3. Enhance Candidate Experience:
- Provide personalized communication: Tailor communication to individual candidates based on their skills, experience, and interests.
- Offer a transparent and efficient application process: Simplify the application process and provide clear timelines and expectations.
- Provide regular updates and feedback: Keep candidates informed about the status of their application and provide constructive feedback throughout the process.
- Offer virtual tours and meet-and-greets: Provide candidates with a glimpse into the company culture and work environment.
4. Foster Diversity and Inclusion:
- Develop a comprehensive diversity and inclusion strategy: Set clear goals and targets for diversity and inclusion, and implement programs to achieve these goals.
- Partner with diversity and inclusion organizations: Collaborate with organizations dedicated to promoting diversity and inclusion in the workplace.
- Implement unconscious bias training: Educate employees on unconscious bias and its impact on recruitment and hiring decisions.
- Create a culture of inclusivity: Foster a workplace where everyone feels valued, respected, and empowered to contribute their best.
5. Enhance Employee Retention:
- Develop a robust employee value proposition: Offer competitive compensation and benefits packages, flexible work arrangements, and career development opportunities.
- Implement a strong performance management system: Provide regular feedback, recognition, and opportunities for growth and development.
- Create a positive and supportive work environment: Foster a culture of collaboration, respect, and trust.
- Invest in employee wellness programs: Support employee health and well-being through programs that promote physical, mental, and emotional health.
6. Implement a Succession Planning Strategy:
- Identify high-potential employees: Develop a system for identifying and tracking high-potential employees who have the potential to fill leadership roles.
- Provide leadership development opportunities: Offer training programs, mentoring, and coaching to prepare employees for leadership roles.
- Create a talent pipeline: Develop a pipeline of qualified candidates to fill key leadership positions.
7. Leverage HR Analytics:
- Track key performance indicators (KPIs): Identify and track key metrics related to talent acquisition, such as time-to-hire, cost-per-hire, and candidate satisfaction.
- Analyze data to identify trends and areas for improvement: Use data to understand candidate behavior, the effectiveness of recruitment campaigns, and the impact of HR initiatives.
- Make data-driven decisions: Use data insights to inform talent acquisition strategies and improve the effectiveness of HR programs.
8. Foster a Culture of Innovation:
- Encourage experimentation and risk-taking: Create a workplace where employees feel comfortable sharing ideas and taking risks.
- Provide opportunities for professional development: Support employee growth and development through training programs, mentorship, and coaching.
- Recognize and reward innovation: Acknowledge and reward employees who contribute innovative ideas and solutions.
9. Enhance Communication and Collaboration:
- Establish clear communication channels: Ensure that all employees have access to relevant information and updates.
- Promote collaboration across departments: Encourage cross-functional collaboration to solve problems and share best practices.
- Use technology to facilitate communication: Leverage collaboration tools and platforms to enhance communication and teamwork.
10. Implement a Strong Change Management Strategy:
- Communicate the vision and benefits of the transformation: Clearly articulate the goals and objectives of the talent acquisition transformation and the benefits for employees.
- Engage employees in the change process: Seek employee input and feedback throughout the transformation process.
- Provide training and support: Provide employees with the necessary training and support to adapt to the new processes and technologies.
- Recognize and reward employee contributions: Acknowledge and reward employees who embrace the change and contribute to its success.
5. Basis of Recommendations
The recommendations are based on a thorough analysis of the case study, considering
Hire an expert to write custom solution for HBR Human Resource Management case study - HCL Technologies: Leveraging Technology for Talent Acquisition Transformation
- Talent Acquisition Group Hcl Technologies Improving Quality Hire Focused Metrics
- Hcls Digital Open Innovation Enhancing Business Model Effectiveness Talent Customer Acquisition Development Retention
- Hcl Technologies Infrastructure Services Division Fuel Growth
- Hcl Technologies Driving Innovation Ecosystem Innovation Platform
- Hcl Technologies Employee First Customer Second
- Hcl America
- Cambridge Technology Partners
- Magis Infotech Talent Management Concerns
- Talenttencent
- Reaching Summit Beyond Hong Kong Broadband Networks Innovative Approach Talent Management
- Staffing Professional Service Firms
- Dows Acquisition Program
Case Description
HCL Technologies was successfully leveraging Application Tracking System till 2017 to fast track its recruitment process, which contributed effectively till then. However, by 2017, as the strategic business objectives changed, HCL decided to implement advanced technology to create more intelligent recruitment system called Techruit. The new system had to meet the broader objectives of experience, efficiency and impact. The decision dilemmas in front of the core HR team were to choose the right technology for enhancing the effectiveness of talent acquisition process, and the right combination of metrics to measure and improve recruiter performance.
🎓 Struggling with term papers, essays, or Harvard case studies? Look no further! Fern Fort University offers top-quality, custom-written solutions tailored to your needs. Boost your grades and save time with expertly crafted content. Order now and experience academic excellence! 🌟📚 #MBA #HarvardCaseStudies #CustomEssays #AcademicSuccess #StudySmart Write my custom case study solution for Harvard HBR case - HCL Technologies: Leveraging Technology for Talent Acquisition Transformation
Hire an expert to write custom solution for HBR Human Resource Management case study - HCL Technologies: Leveraging Technology for Talent Acquisition Transformation
HCL Technologies: Leveraging Technology for Talent Acquisition Transformation FAQ
What are the qualifications of the writers handling the "HCL Technologies: Leveraging Technology for Talent Acquisition Transformation" case study?
Our writers hold advanced degrees in their respective fields, including MBAs and PhDs from top universities. They have extensive experience in writing and analyzing complex case studies such as " HCL Technologies: Leveraging Technology for Talent Acquisition Transformation ", ensuring high-quality, academically rigorous solutions.
How do you ensure confidentiality and security in handling client information?
We prioritize confidentiality by using secure data encryption, access controls, and strict privacy policies. Apart from an email, we don't collect any information from the client. So there is almost zero risk of breach at our end. Our financial transactions are done by Paypal on their website so all your information is very secure.
What is Fern Fort Univeristy's process for quality control and proofreading in case study solutions?
The HCL Technologies: Leveraging Technology for Talent Acquisition Transformation case study solution undergoes a rigorous quality control process, including multiple rounds of proofreading and editing by experts. We ensure that the content is accurate, well-structured, and free from errors before delivery.
Where can I find free case studies solution for Harvard HBR Strategy Case Studies?
At Fern Fort University provides free case studies solutions for a variety of Harvard HBR case studies. The free solutions are written to build "Wikipedia of case studies on internet". Custom solution services are written based on specific requirements. If free solution helps you with your task then feel free to donate a cup of coffee.
I’m looking for Harvard Business Case Studies Solution for HCL Technologies: Leveraging Technology for Talent Acquisition Transformation. Where can I get it?
You can find the case study solution of the HBR case study "HCL Technologies: Leveraging Technology for Talent Acquisition Transformation" at Fern Fort University.
Can I Buy Case Study Solution for HCL Technologies: Leveraging Technology for Talent Acquisition Transformation & Seek Case Study Help at Fern Fort University?
Yes, you can order your custom case study solution for the Harvard business case - "HCL Technologies: Leveraging Technology for Talent Acquisition Transformation" at Fern Fort University. You can get a comprehensive solution tailored to your requirements.
Can I hire someone only to analyze my HCL Technologies: Leveraging Technology for Talent Acquisition Transformation solution? I have written it, and I want an expert to go through it.
🎓 Struggling with term papers, essays, or Harvard case studies? Look no further! Fern Fort University offers top-quality, custom-written solutions tailored to your needs. Boost your grades and save time with expertly crafted content. Order now and experience academic excellence! 🌟📚 #MBA #HarvardCaseStudies #CustomEssays #AcademicSuccess #StudySmart Pay an expert to write my HBR study solution for the case study - HCL Technologies: Leveraging Technology for Talent Acquisition Transformation
Where can I find a case analysis for Harvard Business School or HBR Cases?
You can find the case study solution of the HBR case study "HCL Technologies: Leveraging Technology for Talent Acquisition Transformation" at Fern Fort University.
Which are some of the all-time best Harvard Review Case Studies?
Some of our all time favorite case studies are -
Can I Pay Someone To Solve My Case Study - "HCL Technologies: Leveraging Technology for Talent Acquisition Transformation"?
Yes, you can pay experts at Fern Fort University to write a custom case study solution that meets all your professional and academic needs.
Do I have to upload case material for the case study HCL Technologies: Leveraging Technology for Talent Acquisition Transformation to buy a custom case study solution?
We recommend to upload your case study because Harvard HBR case studies are updated regularly. So for custom solutions it helps to refer to the same document. The uploading of specific case materials for HCL Technologies: Leveraging Technology for Talent Acquisition Transformation ensures that the custom solution is aligned precisely with your needs. This helps our experts to deliver the most accurate, latest, and relevant solution.
What is a Case Research Method? How can it be applied to the HCL Technologies: Leveraging Technology for Talent Acquisition Transformation case study?
The Case Research Method involves in-depth analysis of a situation, identifying key issues, and proposing strategic solutions. For "HCL Technologies: Leveraging Technology for Talent Acquisition Transformation" case study, this method would be applied by examining the case’s context, challenges, and opportunities to provide a robust solution that aligns with academic rigor.
"I’m Seeking Help with Case Studies,” How can Fern Fort University help me with my case study assignments?
Fern Fort University offers comprehensive case study solutions, including writing, analysis, and consulting services. Whether you need help with strategy formulation, problem-solving, or academic compliance, their experts are equipped to assist with your assignments.
Achieve academic excellence with Fern Fort University! 🌟 We offer custom essays, term papers, and Harvard HBR business case studies solutions crafted by top-tier experts. Experience tailored solutions, uncompromised quality, and timely delivery. Elevate your academic performance with our trusted and confidential services. Visit Fern Fort University today! #AcademicSuccess #CustomEssays #MBA #CaseStudies
How do you handle tight deadlines for case study solutions?
We are adept at managing tight deadlines by allocating sufficient resources and prioritizing urgent projects. Our team works efficiently without compromising quality, ensuring that even last-minute requests are delivered on time
What if I need revisions or edits after receiving the case study solution?
We offer free revisions to ensure complete client satisfaction. If any adjustments are needed, our team will work closely with you to refine the solution until it meets your expectations.
How do you ensure that the case study solution is plagiarism-free?
All our case study solutions are crafted from scratch and thoroughly checked using advanced plagiarism detection software. We guarantee 100% originality in every solution delivered
How do you handle references and citations in the case study solutions?
We follow strict academic standards for references and citations, ensuring that all sources are properly credited according to the required citation style (APA, MLA, Chicago, etc.).