HR Glossary

Real-Time Data

Table of contents:


What is Real-Time Data?

Real-time data refers to information that is captured, updated, and made available immediately or near-instantly as events happen. Rather than relying on delayed reports or historical snapshots, real-time data allows organisations to see what is happening right now, enabling faster and more informed decision making.

In a people management and wellbeing context, real-time data helps employers respond to issues as they arise, rather than after problems have already escalated.

Examples of Real-Time Data in the Workplace

Real-time data can include:

  • An employee reporting sickness absence as it happens

  • Live updates on absence levels across teams or departments

  • Immediate visibility of repeated short-term absences

  • Up-to-date wellbeing or health-related reporting

  • Instant alerts or dashboards showing emerging trends

     

This kind of live insight allows managers to act proactively, rather than relying on end-of-month reports or manual tracking.

 

Why Real-Time Data Matters for Employers

Without real-time data, organisations often rely on outdated or incomplete information, making it harder to identify risks early. Delayed visibility can lead to unmanaged presenteeism, avoidable long-term absence, reduced productivity, and inconsistent support for employees.

Real-time data supports:

  • Faster intervention and support

  • More consistent people management

  • Better workforce planning

  • Improved employee wellbeing outcomes

How Real-Time Data Works Within GoodShape

GoodShape uses real-time data to give organisations immediate visibility of employee absence and health-related information, helping managers respond at the right time with the right support.

Key benefits include:

Instant absence reporting
Absences are logged as they occur, giving managers up-to-date information without delays or manual processes.
Live dashboards and reporting
Managers and HR teams can view current absence levels, emerging patterns, and trends across the organisation in real time.
Early identification of risk
Real-time data helps flag repeated absences, prolonged issues, or warning signs of presenteeism before they develop into long-term problems.
Timely support and signposting
With immediate insight, employees can be quickly guided towards appropriate health services or occupational health support.
Better decision-making
Access to accurate, current data enables more confident decisions around resourcing, wellbeing initiatives, and absence management strategies.

 

By putting real-time data at the core of our platform, GoodShape helps organisations gain immediate, actionable insights on their workforce and move from reactive absence management to a more proactive, supportive health and wellbeing approach.

 

Related terms...

Short-term Absence

Sick Leave

Absence Policy