The learning technology segment is due for a shake up. While learning technologies have automated key aspects of the learning value chain, for some organizations, automation isn't enough. In order to keep up — or stay ahead — progressive companies are focused on getting personalized information into the hands of end users more quickly.

You’ve probably heard of casual learning. It’s this idea that learning can be enhanced by making it mobile-enabled; combining games, video, and other immersive experience to truly engage learners in bite-sized learning sessions. While some have called it a fad, the sophistication of these programs — even in their earlier stages — coupled with the number of companies implementing are beginning to show serious results.

Innovation. It's a word that gets overused, especially when it comes to the HCM space. Everything is innovative, from payroll systems, to the latest ATS, or even time entry systems.

Yes, time entry systems that use retina scans to verify your identity make me feel a little like Jason Bourne but application also counts. If an HR system adds complexity, it better do it for good reason. Simply being innovative isn't enough.

For marketers in this space, finding the balance between doing really cool stuff and also making sure their innovation is practical for use is a struggle. Here's how marketers can think about innovation that pushes the envelope: