Redesigning Work: A CHRO’s Guide to Modern Org Structure

Redesigning Work: A CHRO’s Guide to Modern Org Structure


May 22, 2025
by jessicadunbar

The workplace isn’t just changing it’s being completely reimagined. From hybrid workforces to global talent pools and rising employee expectations, Chief Human Resources Officers (CHROs) face mounting pressure to build agile, inclusive, and digitally savvy organizations. Redesigning work requires more than just new org charts it demands digital ecosystems that empower people to thrive.

That’s where a modern intranet for HR becomes essential. With the right tools in place, CHROs can streamline operations, centralize resources, and support a culture of collaboration and adaptability.

The Problem: Legacy Structures in a Modern World

Many organizations still operate on outdated hierarchies and fragmented communication channels. These rigid structures:

  • Slow down decision-making
  • Create information silos
  • Undermine employee engagement
  • Make onboarding and training inefficient

And let’s be honest—tools like SharePoint and Google Sites often become cluttered file repositories, not dynamic HR hubs.

The Solution: A Centralized, Human-Centered HR Portal

A modern HR portal can be a catalyst for meaningful change. For example, companies like Marvell Semiconductors use Concrete CMS to build intuitive, secure, and scalable intranets that combine:

  • Role-based content targeting
  • Self-service access to forms, policies, and benefits
  • Embedded contact forms to initiate HR requests
  • Personalized news and development resources

With the right HR intranet tools, CHROs can turn a static org chart into a living, breathing support system.

Step-by-Step: Redesigning Your Org Structure Digitally

1. Audit Your Current Information Ecosystem

Start by understanding where content lives. If policies are in one platform, onboarding in another, and benefits buried in a PDF, you have an opportunity to consolidate.

Use a platform like Concrete CMS for HR to unify and modernize your approach.

2. Map New Employee Journeys

Create persona-based workflows for your workforce. For example:

A modern intranet supports all of these needs in one place.

3. Prioritize Agility in Structure

Flat, matrixed, and cross-functional team structures are increasingly common. Your intranet must reflect this reality by supporting:

  • Department hubs
  • Cross-team collaboration spaces
  • Personalized dashboards based on roles

For inspiration, explore these real-world intranet vs. extranet examples.

4. Enable Employee Self-Service

Reduce HR’s manual workload by offering:

  • Smart forms
  • Knowledge base articles
  • FAQ and chatbot integrations

This empowers employees while allowing HR to focus on strategic priorities.

5. Foster Transparency and Culture

With company news, feedback loops, and peer recognition programs built into your intranet, HR can lead cultural transformation. Learn more about how intranet sites can foster community and connectivity.

Metrics That Matter: Proving the ROI

What gets measured gets improved. Track these key intranet metrics:

  • Adoption rates (logins and visits)
  • Time-on-page for policy content
  • Completion rates for onboarding or training flows
  • Content contribution from managers

These data points offer insight into employee behavior and portal effectiveness.

Common Pitfalls and How to Avoid Them

Mistake Solution
Overcomplicating the structure Start with HR essentials, expand gradually
Choosing tools employees won't use Invest in user-friendly intranet software
Not aligning with IT and compliance Pick platforms like Concrete CMS that support secure hosting and open-source flexibility

Final Thoughts: The CHRO as a Digital Architect

As a CHRO, you’re not just managing HR you’re redesigning how work happens. A modern intranet isn't a side project. It's your platform for transformation.

With HR-specific CMS solutions, you can empower your team, clarify communication, and drive strategic goals—without waiting for IT.