In the past, Human Resources (HR) was viewed as an administrative function where decision making was usually based on prior experience, feelings, or intuition. However, with the growth of technology, global markets, and rapidly changing business needs, the HR professional must also hone the ability to make fact-based decisions. Such decisions may be based on data developed through the use of metrics that measure the quality, quantity, cost, and effectiveness of HR programs. Metrics measure turnover, the cost of hiring new employees, and the effectiveness of compensation programs in increasing employee performance. Metrics also provide the data the HR professional needs to communicate with management and have a real impact on driving the change that will move the company forward.