Case Study: Merck achieves 100% global recognition reach and boosts engagement with Workhuman’s INSPIRE

Culturally Energizing, Global Social Recognition

Merck, a 125-year research‑intensive biopharmaceutical with 67,000 employees, needed a modern, consistent global recognition program. Its prior system was top-down, reached only 22% of employees, relied on paper-based nominations and slow award distribution, and couldn’t deliver timely, peer-to-peer recognition across regions.

Merck partnered with Workhuman to launch INSPIRE in 85 countries, supported by 400+ ambassadors, a mobile-friendly platform for peer-to-peer recognition and rewards, and built‑in inclusion micro‑coaching (Inclusion Reflections and Inclusion Advisor). Since launch INSPIRE has driven nearly 3 million recognition moments, reached 100% of the workforce, achieved 37% peer-to-peer recognition and 84,000 mobile actions, produced a 12‑point increase on the recognition survey, and materially reduced turnover (new hires 5× less likely to leave; 1.3× lower turnover for monthly awardees).

Merck

Dave Watson

Global Solutions and Relationship Lead