As a business owner, managing your workforce can be a daunting task. From onboarding to performance management, the responsibilities can quickly pile up. That’s why investing in Human Resources Management Software (HRMS) can be a game-changer for your organization.
However, not all HRMS systems are created equal. Depending on your specific needs, the software that works for one organization might not be the best fit for yours. In this article, we’ll take a deeper look at our top-tested picks for HRMS systems and provide you with the information you need to make an informed decision for your business.
BambooHR
Best Overall
BambooHR is an all-inclusive HR management system that covers everything from hiring to retiring. It is our Editors’ Choice winner for the best overall HR system due to its user-friendly interface and wide range of features, such as applicant tracking, benefits administration, payroll, time tracking, and performance management.
Why We Picked It
Unlike many HR systems that focus on one key area, BambooHR offers a holistic and thorough approach to managing human resources. It meets the needs of most HR professionals and provides a consistent UI, making it an ideal solution for businesses seeking an all-encompassing HR system.
Who It’s For
If you’re looking for an HR system that can help your business with every HR function it might need, BambooHR is the perfect solution. However, it is important to note that it is not the least expensive package we tested. If you’re more interested in automating a particular area of the HR process, you might be better served to look into a more specialized system.
PROS
- BambooHR offers a comprehensive approach to HR management software, covering all HR functions from hiring to retiring.
- It is easy to get up and running with open APIs that offer lots of potential for integration with HR tech vendors.
CONS
- BambooHR is pricier than some competing products.
- It lacks some benefits administration (BA) features compared to rival solutions.
- The mobile app lacks benefits data.
SPECS
| Name | Value |
|---|---|
| Maximum Number of Users | Unlimited |
| iOS App | Yes |
| Android App | Yes |
| Applicant Tracking | Yes |
| Benefits Administration | Yes |
| 401(k) Management | Yes |
| Payroll | Yes |
| Performance Management | Yes |
| Time and Attendance | Yes |
| Shift Scheduling | Yes |
| Time Off Tracking | Yes |
| Trial Version | Yes |
| Live Chat/Phone Support | Yes |
Deputy
Best for Shift Scheduling
Deputy is a top-rated employee scheduling software that makes it easy to create and manage shifts for your staff. It offers an uncluttered and intuitive user interface that simplifies shift planning, time tracking, and staff management.
Why We Picked It
We selected Deputy as our Editors’ Choice for employee scheduling and shift planning because of its attractive user interface, powerful mobile app, and long list of integrations that make it compatible with your existing tools. Deputy also provides 24/7 support and customization options to suit your needs.
Who It’s For
Deputy is an excellent choice for small businesses that need a simple and effective way to schedule and manage their staff. It offers general human resource tools that can help with payroll, performance, and compliance. However, if you need a full-fledged HR solution with more robust features, you may want to consider other options.
PROS
Deputy offers the following benefits:
- Uncluttered and intuitive user interface
- Great mobile solutions
- Extensive third-party integration system
- Offers open shifts and easy shift swapping
CONS
Deputy has the following limitations:
- Not robust enough to be a comprehensive human resources (HR) management tool
- Website and mobile apps are available in English only
SPECS
Deputy’s specifications include:
| Name | Value |
|---|---|
| Maximum Number of Users | Unlimited |
| iOS App | Available |
| Android App | Available |
| Applicant Tracking | Available |
| Benefits Administration | Available |
| 401(k) Management | Available |
| Payroll | Available |
| Performance Management | Available |
| Time and Attendance | Available |
| Shift Scheduling | Available |
| Time Off Tracking | Available |
| Trial Version | Available |
| Live Chat/Phone Support | Available |
Gusto
Best for Payroll Processing
Gusto is an excellent option for small businesses that need an easy-to-use and reliable payroll service. It offers a range of features that cover the most common payroll needs, such as tax filing, direct deposit, and contractor payments. Gusto’s user-friendly interface makes payroll management a breeze, even for beginners. The advanced pricing tier offers additional features such as advanced hiring and onboarding tools, time and project tracking, performance reviews, PTO management and policies, workforce costing and reports, and next-day direct deposit capabilities.
Why We Picked It
Gusto is an exceptional payroll service that provides a clean and understandable payroll processing experience. Its flexible and thorough employee records make it easy to manage your employees’ payroll information. Gusto’s employee-side apps are excellent, and its comprehensive admin mobile access allows you to manage payroll on-the-go.
Who It’s For
If you’re a small business owner looking for a reliable and easy-to-use payroll service, Gusto is an excellent choice. However, Gusto’s general HR tools cost extra and are not as robust as the features found in more general-purpose HR packages. If you’re looking to avoid excessive complexity, Gusto may be just what you need.
PROS
- Exceptional user experience
- Flexible and thorough employee records
- Clean and understandable payroll processing
- Excellent employee-side apps
- Comprehensive admin mobile access
CONS
- No time tracking or PTO management in Simple plan
- Contractors and time off require separate pages during payroll
SPECS
| Name | Value |
|---|---|
| Maximum Number of Users | Unlimited |
| iOS App | Yes |
| Android App | Yes |
| Applicant Tracking | Yes |
| Benefits Administration | Yes |
| 401(k) Management | Yes |
| Payroll | Yes |
| Performance Management | Yes |
| Time and Attendance | Yes |
| Shift Scheduling | Yes |
| Time Off Tracking | Yes |
| Trial Version | Yes |
| Live Chat/Phone Support | Yes |
Overall, Gusto is an excellent payroll service for small businesses that need reliable and easy-to-use payroll management. Its exceptional user experience and comprehensive features make it a top choice for small business owners.
SAP SuccessFactors
Best for Performance Management
SAP SuccessFactors is a cloud-based HR package that offers a comprehensive set of features for small to midsize businesses. Its core strength lies in performance management, which is where it started as a product. If performance management is your chief concern, SuccessFactors has the best feature set for that purpose of any of the solutions we’ve reviewed.
Why We Picked It
SAP SuccessFactors has a long history in the HR software market, and it shows in its user-friendly interface and comprehensive features. It is best known as a provider of enterprise resource planning (ERP) software and databases, but its cloud-based HR package is designed for SMBs.
Who It’s For
SuccessFactors’ Goals and Performance modules, while extensive, could be overkill for companies that put less time and effort into the review process. Although it also supports numerous other HR functions, they come at a substantially higher cost than you would pay for rival software.
PROS
- Superb feature set for small to midsize businesses (SMBs)
- Intuitive setup wizard and video tutorials
- Outstanding performance tracking features
CONS
- Costs more than competing small business human resources (HR) software
- Lacks add-on options offered by competitors
In summary, SAP SuccessFactors is an excellent choice for SMBs that prioritize performance management. Its comprehensive features and user-friendly interface make it stand out in the HR software market. However, its higher cost and lack of add-on options may not be suitable for companies that do not prioritize performance management or have a limited budget.
Zenefits
Best for Benefits Administration
Zenefits is a top-rated HR software solution that caters to small businesses and startups. Although it offers a comprehensive set of HR features, it stands out in benefits administration. Zenefits is the most complete solution for benefits administration for typical SMBs. Its benefits reporting features are superior to any other solution we tested. It also offers a number of other advantages, such as easy administration, flexible add-on services, and access to actual human advisers when you need help.
Why We Picked It
Zenefits is the best option for benefits administration due to its comprehensive features. It is user-friendly, and its benefits reporting features surpass any other solution we tested. Zenefits also offers a mobile app that allows employees to manage their benefits and HR details. Additionally, Zenefits offers access to human advisers for any help you may need.
Who It’s For
Zenefits is the perfect solution for small businesses and startups that require assistance with benefits administration. It offers a comprehensive set of HR features, but it may be overwhelming for very small businesses that only require basic payroll and benefits management. If you are looking for a solution that focuses solely on payroll, taxes, and basic benefits management, another package might suit you better.
PROS
- Comprehensive benefits administration and plan-building functionality.
- Good user experience.
- Thorough employee records.
- Strong business intelligence (BI) reporting.
- Exceptional employee mobile app.
CONS
- May be overwhelming for very small businesses.
- Mobile app doesn’t support all admin tasks.
BerniePortal
Best for Employee Onboarding
BerniePortal is an HR platform that stands out for its user-friendly interface. It simplifies the onboarding process, which is often a headache for employers. This feature makes it an ideal choice for small businesses that don’t have dedicated HR personnel.
Why We Picked It
We chose BerniePortal because of its intuitive design, which makes it easy to use for small business owners and managers. It’s an impressive feat to wrap up such a complex platform in such a streamlined package.
Who It’s For
BerniePortal is best suited for very small businesses. While it lacks some of the features found in more robust HR systems, it covers most small to midsize business needs. However, calculating its actual cost can be complicated since its pricing varies across 200 independent brokers.
PROS
- Quick to set up and easy to figure out
- Great core features cover most small to midsize business (SMBs) needs
CONS
- Has some functionality limitations that can be found in competing products
- Subgroup organization can be confusing
In summary, BerniePortal is a great option for small businesses that need an intuitive and easy-to-use HR platform. While it may not have all the features of more robust systems, it covers most SMBs needs and is quick to set up.
Cezanne HR
Best for Global SMBs
Cezanne HR is an affordable solution that caters to midsize companies with a global presence. It supports multiple languages and currencies, making it an excellent choice for growing businesses that operate in several countries. According to Cezanne, it targets companies with several hundred to several thousand employees, making it an ideal solution for global SMBs.
Why We Picked It
We picked Cezanne HR because of its ability to handle various HR functions like personnel files, directories, and org charts. It has a main dashboard with different views for managers and employees, making it easy for them to access the information they need. Additionally, it offers global support for 10 languages and various currencies, making it an excellent choice for companies with a global presence.
Who It’s For
Cezanne HR is an excellent choice for growing businesses that have a global presence. However, small companies that operate in a single country may prefer a more user-friendly and straightforward design. Other all-in-one HR systems offer a smoother user experience and a deeper range of benefits management and customization features than Cezanne. In particular, Cezanne’s payroll and benefits management features are weaker than other options.
PROS
- Handles various functions like personnel files, directories, and org charts.
- Main dashboard has different views for managers and employees.
- Global support for 10 languages and various currencies.
- Integrated benefits and payroll.
CONS
- Can be complicated to navigate because of non-intuitive command structure and functions that might befuddle small to midsize businesses (SMBs).
SPECS
| Name | Value |
|---|---|
| Maximum Number of Users | 5000 |
| iOS App | Yes |
| Android App | Yes |
| Applicant Tracking | Yes |
| Benefits Administration | Yes |
| 401(k) Management | Yes |
| Payroll | Yes |
| Performance Management | Yes |
| Time and Attendance | Yes |
| Shift Scheduling | Yes |
| Time Off Tracking | Yes |
| Trial Version | Yes |
| Live Chat/Phone Support | Yes |
Overall, Cezanne HR is a great option for global SMBs looking for an affordable HR solution that can handle various HR functions. However, it may not be the best choice for small companies that operate in a single country or those looking for more advanced payroll and benefits management features.
Namely
Best for Customization
Namely is an HR solution that offers benefits administration, payroll, and other HR features. It stands out from other HR solutions due to its high degree of customization. Namely’s user-friendly interface allows system administrator-level users to tailor the platform to fit a company’s specific people processes. This feature is beneficial because it allows companies to avoid adapting to a vendor’s view of how HR should work. In addition, Namely’s user experience is optimized for mobile devices, which means users can access custom components and processes from their handhelds.
Why We Picked It
Namely’s customizability is what makes it stand out from other HR solutions. The platform is designed to fit a company’s specific people processes, which is a valuable feature for companies that require HR management software tailored to their unique needs. Additionally, Namely’s user experience is optimized for mobile devices, making it convenient for users to access custom components and processes from their handhelds.
Who It’s For
Namely is ideal for companies that require HR management software tailored to their unique needs. However, the sheer number of configuration options provided by Namely means that setting it up can be time-consuming. Companies that lack time and resources might be better served by a more turnkey solution.
PROS
- Comprehensive HR, payroll, and benefits solutions designed around the needs of small to midsize businesses (SMBs).
- Strong employee management and performance review features.
CONS
- An expensive option for larger businesses.
- Compensation section feels limited in tracking salary changes after performance reviews.
Sage Business Cloud People
Best for Multinational Businesses
Sage Business Cloud People is an end-to-end human resources (HR) solution that caters best to larger multinational companies with employees outside the US. It offers a highly flexible system that integrates with multiple third-party payroll platforms and other outside vendors. This is possible because it is built on the Salesforce platform, and while you don’t have to be an existing Salesforce customer to use it, admins familiar with Salesforce will have a shorter learning curve.
Why We Picked It
We picked Sage Business Cloud People because of its flexibility and integration with multiple third-party payroll platforms. It is built on the Salesforce platform, which makes it easier for admins familiar with Salesforce to learn and use. Additionally, it is highly customizable, making it ideal for multinational companies with complex HR needs.
Who It’s For
Midsized and larger companies with a global presence will benefit the most from Sage Business Cloud People. However, smaller companies may find it expensive and time-consuming to set up. According to Sage, it can take up to 90 days to implement the system and get analytics, core HR, payroll, and reporting up and running. SMBs and start-ups with smaller workforces will want to weigh these factors against competing products that are cheaper and easier to implement.
PROS
- Highly flexible system that integrates with multiple third-party payroll platforms and other outside vendors.
- End-to-end HR solution with a slant towards multinational companies.
- Built on top of Salesforce’s platform.
- Good support and integration with third-party payroll vendors.
CONS
- Setting it up can take a long time, especially for multinational users.
- Expensive option for smaller businesses.
- Salesforce foundation is a mixed bag that may alienate non-Salesforce shops.
APS OnLine
Best for Enterprise-Style HR
APS OnLine is a comprehensive HR management platform that also includes built-in payroll functionality. It is specifically designed for small to medium-sized businesses (SMBs) with 100 to 3,000 employees, providing enterprise-level HR management features to resource-strapped companies.
Why We Picked It
APS OnLine is one of the few vendors that offer core HR tech with integrated payroll. The platform has evolved into a full HR system, providing SMBs with a generous feature set compared to other SMB-focused options. While it lacks some enterprise bells and whistles, SMBs will find APS OnLine’s feature set to be comprehensive.
Who It’s For
APS OnLine is ideal for SMBs where managers often double as HR staff and require a streamlined and simple HR software solution. However, if you’re looking for a solution that provides almost everything that a product for large enterprises can, APS OnLine may be the right fit. It’s important to note that being treated like a big company comes at a higher cost and near enterprise-level complexity. Ensure that you’re ready for the cost and complexity before committing to APS OnLine.
PROS
- User-friendly interface
- Built-in payroll functionality
- Highly configurable
CONS
- Can be expensive for SMBs
- Does not offer a news feed
- System admins and employees need to use separate portals
SPECS
| Name | Value |
|---|---|
| Maximum Number of Users | Unlimited |
| iOS App | Yes |
| Android App | Yes |
| Applicant Tracking | Yes |
| Benefits Administration | Yes |
| 401(k) Management | Yes |
| Payroll | Yes |
| Performance Management | Yes |
| Time and Attendance | Yes |
| Shift Scheduling | Yes |
| Time Off Tracking | Yes |
| Trial Version | Yes |
| Live Chat/Phone Support | Yes |
In summary, APS OnLine is a user-friendly and highly configurable HR management platform that offers built-in payroll functionality. It’s ideal for SMBs with 100 to 3,000 employees that require enterprise-level HR management features. However, it can be expensive for SMBs, and the system admins and employees need to use separate portals. Overall, APS OnLine is a solid choice for SMBs looking for an HR management platform with integrated payroll.
What Is HR Software?
HR software, also known as HR management software (HRMS), is a digital tool that allows you to manage employee records from a desktop application, web browser, or smartphone app. These software solutions can help you streamline your HR processes and keep track of employee data, from recruitment to retirement. Some HR software also offers additional features such as applicant tracking (AT), benefits administration, and performance management tools.
When selecting HR software, there are several key factors to consider. First, you’ll want to ensure that the user interface (UI) is intuitive and easy to navigate, without requiring extensive training. It’s also important to determine if the software can integrate with any legacy software packages you may be using, particularly when it comes to data feeds. Additionally, you’ll want to ensure that the software can scale as your company grows, and that the vendor offers adequate support in case of any issues or software failures.
HR software is designed to meet the needs of businesses of all sizes. For small businesses, HR software solutions typically accommodate up to 1,500 or 2,000 users. For larger businesses, software like Deputy, Namely, and Sage Business Cloud People can accommodate workforces of 3,000 to 10,000 people or more. If your business outgrows its HR software, you can migrate to an enterprise-level system. However, SAP SuccessFactors offers a unique solution, as it uses the same base software code for both small businesses and enterprise-level software, allowing for a smooth transition without the need to re-enter any data.
HR software and management systems are a significant improvement over using Microsoft Excel spreadsheets to store and analyze employee data. Many cloud-based HR software solutions also offer additional features beyond basic functions at affordable starting prices. When selecting HR software for your business, consider your budget, location, and any existing HR software solutions to avoid paying for duplicate services. By determining your requirements and preferences, testing solutions that meet your needs, and selecting the software that fits your ideal combination of price and utility, you can streamline your HR processes and improve your overall business operations.
How Much Does HR Software Cost?
The cost of HR software systems varies widely. With the rise of cloud-based HR software, more vendors have entered the business, resulting in features, functions, and configurability that were previously only available in platforms for larger companies now trickling down to core HR software for SMBs.
Modern software-as-a-service (SaaS) offerings are cheaper than traditional on-premises HR solutions, and they are also usually intuitive software platforms that are easy to use and can easily integrate with other back-office SaaS tools, such as accounting and enterprise resource planning (ERP) apps.
The cost of HR software starts at the bottom with free services, such as those from Zenefits. Paid services typically charge per employee per month and range from $2 per employee per month for Cezanne HR’s plan to $12 per employee per month for Namely’s basic plan. Many vendors charge extra for add-on modules for hiring, payroll, and the like, as well as for implementation. They also offer volume discounts and special packages to companies with larger workforces.
Other vendors have taken a page from consumer software by offering simple-to-use HR software that’s essentially free. Zenefits Z2 is a prime example, which has a freemium business model that revolutionized the category and attracted millions in venture capital (VC). Customers subsidize the platform’s costs by paying Zenefits fees to act as their employee benefits broker, as well as fees the company charges for ancillary services.
Overall, the cost of HR software varies depending on the vendor, features, and add-ons. It’s important to research and compare costs and features before making a decision.
What Should You Look For in HR Software?
When choosing HR software for your company, it is important to consider the key capabilities and features that will allow it to evolve with your organization’s needs. Here are some essential features to look for:
Applicant Tracking (AT)
HR software with applicant tracking capabilities allows you to manage job postings, applications, and even the onboarding process of new employees. This feature streamlines the hiring process, making it easier to find the right candidates for the job.
Benefits Administration
Benefits administration is critical for most HR operations. Look for HR software that offers the ability to manage employee enrollment and specific benefit plans. This feature ensures that your employees receive the benefits they need and helps you stay compliant with regulations.
Scheduling and Shift Planning
Scheduling and shift planning tools are essential for businesses where this capability is important. Look for HR software that offers dedicated tools for scheduling and shift planning or includes it as part of a larger HRMS platform.
Performance Management
Performance management is the ability to track employee goals and tie success directly to compensation and payroll. Look for HR software that offers this feature to keep track of employee performance and ensure that they are meeting their goals.
Online Learning
Online learning is another feature that may appear as an offshoot of performance management. It allows managers to provide training to employees to achieve their goals and stay in compliance with regulations. Look for HR software that offers this feature to provide your employees with the training they need.
eLearning Authoring
eLearning authoring allows your company to build its own training materials for internal or external use. Look for HR software that offers this feature to create customized training materials for your employees.
In addition to these key capabilities, there are other features to consider when choosing HR software:
Integration
Look for HR software that offers integrations with other platforms, either through canned integrations or open APIs. This feature allows you to connect your HR software with other systems you use, making it easier to manage all your data in one place.
Mobility
HR data tends to be information that employees need to access on the fly, especially things such as benefits information and time-off requests. Look for HR software that offers client software for both Android and iOS devices at a minimum, providing the ability to access the information easily and securely on mobile devices.
Security
Make sure to investigate how the HR software protects customer data. Look for HR software that offers role-based access controls and at least the option to encrypt data to ensure that your employee data, including personal information and financial data, is adequately protected.
Reporting
The best HR software takes advantage of the personnel data they store to let company owners, HR executives, or HRIS managers run myriad workforce reports. Look for HR software that offers standard reports on headcount, turnover, payroll costs, and staffing allocation. Also, look for options for creating custom reports that can be saved or generated on a regular basis.
Top HR software platforms offer a variety of help and support options, including setup wizards, video tutorials, 24/7 live chat, and phone support. Some vendors even offer dedicated project managers, account executives, or support teams for enterprise-level and midsize companies. By considering these key capabilities and features, you can choose the right HR software for your company’s needs.
What Is Applicant Tracking Technology?
Applicant Tracking Technology is a software type that helps manage the recruitment process by tracking job applicants from the initial application stage to the day they join or leave your company. Using an AT tool, you can streamline your recruitment process, ensuring that you don’t miss out on top candidates due to mismanagement.
Before selecting an AT system, it’s important to consider your team’s specific needs. For example, do you need a standalone system, or do you want AT as part of a larger software ecosystem? Do you need a tool that can handle an unlimited number of users and job openings? How important is it to you that your system integrates well with your corporate website and email client?
Most AT systems automatically post newly created jobs to free job websites and premium job websites for which you have paid a small fee. If you regularly hire people, then you’ll want to purchase a tool that ties back to your corporate careers page. This enables your system to automatically feed candidate data from the app page directly into the AT software.
The best AT tools, such as the Editors’ Choice winner Bullhorn Staffing and Recruiting, offer social buttons that let you share postings on Facebook, LinkedIn, and Twitter. Even the most basic AT software comes with a robust reporting platform, which includes hiring velocity, candidate sourcing, and pipeline reports. These reports are more valuable for staffing firms than for in-house recruiters, but it doesn’t hurt to find a system that provides ultra-detailed reporting on attractive dashboards.
In summary, Applicant Tracking Technology is an essential tool for managing the recruitment process. It helps you stay organized and ensures that you don’t miss out on top candidates. When selecting an AT system, consider your team’s specific needs, and choose a tool that integrates well with your corporate website and email client, and provides robust reporting capabilities.
Do You Need Benefits Administration in HR Software?
If you want to attract and retain top talent in your organization, offering a comprehensive benefits package is a must. However, managing various benefits packages can be a daunting task for HR administrators. That’s where benefits administration (BA) software comes in.
BA software should simplify the process of choosing and customizing plans for HR administrators while making it easier for employees to enroll in those benefits. This software should handle basic medical, dental, vision, life insurance, and disability, with customizable plans.
Leading all-in-one BA and HR platforms like Zenefits offer additional features such as managing payroll and retirement benefits like a 401(k), plus perks like a stock option module. The software should make it easy for employees to enroll in the plans that best suit their needs. It should also provide an intuitive interface with enough special features to keep employees confident that their employer is taking good care of them.
If your business has complex BA requirements, specialized software may be necessary. However, if you’re satisfied with the features provided by your current HR management system, it may not be necessary to invest in specialized software.
In summary, having BA software in your HR system can make the process of managing benefits packages easier and more efficient for both HR administrators and employees.
What Are the Essential Performance Management Features?
When selecting an HR management platform, businesses often consider the performance management features. These features are crucial for measuring employee performance using various methodologies. To cater to business needs, software makers have developed different packages. The following are essential performance management features to look for:
- Goal Setting: Effective mechanisms for assigning and tracking goals are necessary for performance management. This feature helps employees understand their objectives and align their efforts with the company’s goals.
- Feedback and Coaching: The ability to provide feedback and coaching to employees is essential for their development. It helps them improve their performance and enhances their skills.
- Performance Review: This feature enables businesses to evaluate employees for bonuses, compensation, certifications, and skill advancement. It should allow for custom workflows and data integration with existing payroll systems.
SAP SuccessFactors is our Editors’ Choice winner for its excellent performance management features. It provides effective mechanisms for assigning and tracking goals, feedback, and coaching, and allows for custom workflows and data integration. Although it lacks a payroll module, it can effectively communicate employee performance results to your existing payroll system.
In conclusion, the essential performance management features include goal setting, feedback and coaching, and performance review. These features are crucial for measuring employee performance and enhancing their skills. When selecting an HR management platform, consider these features to ensure that you choose the best solution for your business needs.
The Best Online Learning Platforms for Business
Recommended by Our Editors
When it comes to online learning platforms for businesses, there are two main categories: those designed for training companies that sell courses to third parties, and those designed for companies that conduct training with their own staff. The type of platform you choose will depend on how you plan to use it, how you’ll be charged, and the available integrations.
If you’re looking for an enterprise online learning platform, we recommend our Editors’ Choice winner, Docebo. It offers flexibility in terms of how much content you can store, how many courses and quizzes you can create, and how many people can access your content. With Docebo, you can upload content and develop quizzes based on the information in your files. You can also use a Sharable Content Object Reference Model (SCORM) platform to create more interactive, dynamic courses that combine lessons and quizzes. Most novice technology users will be able to access, use, and master the system with no difficulty.
To deliver custom training content for use with your online learning and training platform, you’ll either need to hire an expert to create such courseware or do it yourself using eLearning authoring tools specific to the task. Before testing systems, you should determine how the content will be delivered to your employees or customers. For example, will your software be installed locally and run exclusively on a specific device? Or will the tool be a cloud-based managed service, making it accessible via a web browser? Cloud-based tools in this category tend to be less expensive and more flexible in terms of who uses the tool and where they’ll be using it.
When choosing an eLearning authoring tool, you should consider must-have features such as the ability to include video in training content, drag-and-drop functionality, and a What You See is What You Get (WYSIWYG) editing platform. All of the tools we review in our roundup, including Editors’ Choice winners Articulate Storyline 2 and Trivantis Lectora Inspire, provide these basic apps.
Price is also an important factor to consider. Tools in this field range from free and barebones to thousands of dollars a year for nearly limitless course creation functionality. By determining your must-have features and considering price, you can find the best online learning platform for your business’s training needs.
What Are Scheduling and Shift Planning?
For businesses that rely on managing multiple shifts of workers, scheduling and shift planning are essential tools. While some organizations use dedicated apps separate from their HRMS, others choose to integrate these features into their HR software platform. The choice of whether to use a dedicated solution or an integrated one depends on the features required and the ability to integrate with the overall HR software platform.
Although small operations may use a grid built into a spreadsheet for shift scheduling, opting for a dedicated scheduling solution provides more flexibility. A basic benefit is the ability to directly tie scheduling into both attendance and payroll. However, the ability to provide scheduling across mobile platforms and allow shift participants to pick up, drop, or swap shifts without manager or IT intervention is a feature that should be tested to see if it fits into your daily workflow.
Using a dedicated scheduling solution also provides the ability to generate reports that can help managers track employee performance, attendance, and overtime. Additionally, some solutions offer automated scheduling based on employee availability and skill sets, which can save time and reduce errors. Overall, scheduling and shift planning tools can help businesses streamline their operations and improve productivity.
How to Choose the Best HR Software for Your Business
Choosing the best HR software for your business can be a daunting task, but it’s an important one. With so many options available, it’s important to know what to look for to ensure that you’re getting the right fit for your company. Here are some tips to help you make the right decision:
Consider Your Company Size, Needs, and Budget
The first step in choosing the best HR software for your business is to consider your company size, needs, and budget. Small businesses may not need all the bells and whistles of a larger enterprise-level solution, while larger companies may require more robust features and functionality.
Look for Niche Solutions
Some HR software vendors specialize in niche industries or company types. For example, Zenefits’ platform is well-suited for fast-growing, venture capital-backed start-ups due to its built-in benefits modules for health benefits, employee stock options, and 401(k) retirement savings plans. Consider if a vendor has experience in your industry or company type before making a decision.
Check for Integration with Existing Systems
If your company is happy with its existing systems for applicant tracking, onboarding, shift scheduling, or performance reviews, you may not need a core HR platform that includes those options. Look for HR software that can integrate with your existing systems to avoid any disruptions.
Consider Mobile Access
Many HR software platforms have companion Android and iOS apps with a limited number of mobile-friendly functions. If giving employees mobile access is important to your company, check out a platform’s mobile apps before you commit.
Look for Help with Setup
If you need a lot of hand-holding through the setup process, consider HR software vendors that offer tutorials, setup wizards, and other help functions. Cezanne HR, Namely, Sage, and SAP SuccessFactors are all good options for companies that want a lot of support during setup.
Customization for International Needs
If you have employees or offices outside of the United States, consider HR software that can be customized to use specific languages, currencies, or country-specific holidays. Cezanne HR and Sage Business Cloud People are both good options for companies with international needs.
Consider Your Payroll Provider
If your company is happy with its existing payroll provider, consider HR software vendors that can share payroll data with national processors such as ADP, Gusto (previously ZenPayroll), and Paychex. Zenefits and BambooHR are both set up to share payroll data with national processors.
Choosing the best HR software for your business requires careful consideration of your company’s size, needs, and budget. Look for software that offers niche solutions, integrates with existing systems, and provides mobile access. Consider vendors that offer help with setup and customization for international needs. By following these tips, you can find the right HR software to meet your company’s needs.
Frequently Asked Questions
What are important features to look for in top-tier HR software?
When searching for top-tier HR software, it’s important to consider features such as employee data management, performance tracking, payroll processing, benefits administration, and compliance management. Additionally, look for software that offers customizable reporting, mobile accessibility, and integration with other business systems.
How can startups benefit from implementing HR software?
Startups can benefit from implementing HR software by streamlining their HR processes, reducing administrative tasks, and increasing accuracy and efficiency. HR software can also help startups maintain compliance with employment laws and regulations, and improve employee engagement and retention.
What are the best HR software solutions for large enterprises?
The best HR software solutions for large enterprises typically offer advanced features such as enterprise-level security, global compliance management, and large-scale employee data management. Some popular options include Workday, SAP SuccessFactors, and Oracle HCM Cloud.
Can you recommend any HR software that is available for free?
While many HR software solutions require a paid subscription, there are some free options available such as Zoho People, Bitrix24, and Odoo HR. However, it’s important to note that these free options may have limited features and may not be suitable for larger organizations.
What are the differences between various types of HR software?
There are several types of HR software, including HR management systems (HRMS), HR information systems (HRIS), talent management systems (TMS), and applicant tracking systems (ATS). HRMS and HRIS are typically used for employee data management, while TMS focuses on performance management and development, and ATS is used for recruiting and hiring.
How does HR software improve employee management processes?
HR software can improve employee management processes by automating tasks such as onboarding, performance evaluations, and benefits administration. This can reduce administrative workload and increase accuracy and efficiency. Additionally, HR software can provide valuable insights into employee performance and engagement, allowing for targeted interventions and improved retention rates.