AI Focussed HRTech Startup Bash Acqui-Hires Wemo

Gurugram-based Bash, an artificial intelligence-based HR automation tool provider, has acqui-hired tech startup Wemo, which is known for its UX expertise in building mobile apps and websites.

The Wemo team will now work towards bringing increased scale to the company and further its goal of building compelling experiences for its repertoire of brands.

Wemo is a creative development agency working on machine learning, AI bots, mobile apps, websites, and  UX strategy. The startup provides customised solutions to its clients to ensure that their brand better communicates with the audience.

The accelerated growth of Wemo is driven by its unique design sensibility as well as partnerships with well-known brands such as Tata, W for Woman, Videocon, DDB Mudra Group, Godrej, Fashion at Big Bazaar, Choko La, Center for Policy Research and I Say Organic.

Commenting on the development, Barkha Sharma, CEO and Founder, Bash, said, “Wemo’s immensely talented team of UX designers will be joining our team that is focused on building products designed to empower businesses. The acqui-hire will open newer avenues of work for both Bash and Wemo and create new opportunities for brands targeting the new set of billions of users coming online.”

Founded in March 2017, Bash uses AI and machine learning (ML) to improve HR processes and employee experiences. With its frontend chat interface also available on platforms like Facebook Messenger, Slack etc, Bash offers its services in multiple formats including post-hire orientation, HR Helpdesk, employee engagement and more.

As mentioned on its website, currently, a majority of the software or technologies used in the HR segment facilitate only non- employee facing activities (backend functions). Bash, on the other hand, is an intelligent chatbot which implements machine learning algorithms to improve employee productivity, satisfaction and optimises HR function.

In the HRTech space, Bash competes with startups like Skillate, EdGE Networks, PeopleStrong, Darwinbox among others. The sector has attracted significant attention from the investors recently.

For instance, Skillate raised an undisclosed amount to accelerate product development and expand its team in January 2018.

Another player Darwinbox secured $4 Mn in funding round led by Lightspeed India Partners in June 2017.

The Indian HRTech industry is estimated to be worth $6.29 Bn (INR 40,000 Cr). In 2017, nearly $2 Bn was invested in HRTech companies globally.

As Bash continues to revolutionise the traditional HR processes in the country, the latest acqui-hire of technology startup Wemo is expected to give additional benefits to the clients of both companies.