The terms “Human Capital Management” (HCM) and “Human Resources Information Systems” (HRIS) refer to two instruments that are essential for modern businesses that want to effectively manage their employees. These tools improve employee engagement while also automating HR operations, streamlining data management, and reducing administrative burden. In this all-encompassing tutorial, we will investigate the top 10 HCM/HRIS systems as well as the prerequisites for using each one.
What is HCM and HRIS?
Before we go into the best systems, let’s first have a quick definition of HCM and HRIS:
- HCM stands for “Human Capital Management,” and it refers to an all-encompassing method for the management of an organization’s employees. It include activities such as workforce planning, talent development, performance management, and recruiting and onboarding of new employees.
- HRIS stands for “Human Resources Information System” and refers to a software system that focuses on the administrative responsibilities of human resources, such as payroll, benefits administration, time and attendance monitoring, and compliance reporting. HRIS is sometimes abbreviated as “HRIS.”
Why Use an HCM/HRIS System?
The use of Human Capital Management (HCM) and Human Resources Information Systems (HRIS) has become more of a need than a luxury for businesses of all sizes in today’s fast-paced business landscape. HCM and HRIS stand for “human capital management” and “human resources information system,” respectively. However, what factors are contributing to this growing reliance on HCM/HRIS systems? Let’s investigate the compelling reasons why companies and organizations have chosen to make use of these solutions.
1. Efficiency and Time Savings
The simplification and acceleration of HR procedures are two of the key benefits that may be gained from using an HCM/HRIS system. Manually doing HR duties, like as data entry, payroll processing, and benefits administration, may be a time-consuming and error-prone procedure. Because an HCM/HRIS automates these procedures, HR professionals have less work to do that requires administrative attention. Because of this efficiency, human resources staff are able to devote their attention to more strategic endeavors, such as talent management and employee development.
2. Centralized Data Management
A HCM/HRIS system acts as a central repository for all of the data pertaining to an organization’s employees. Everything, from personal information and work history to performance evaluations and training records, is kept in a single, safe location. The elimination of data redundancy, the simplification of data retrieval, and the assurance of data correctness are all benefits of centralized data management. The HR departments are able to immediately access information, allowing them to make educated decisions and promptly respond to employee queries.
3. Employee Self-Service
Self-service portals are a common feature of many modern HCM and HRIS systems. These portals give employees the ability to manage their own information. Employees are able to make changes to their personal information, check their pay stubs, request time off, and enroll in benefits on their own, which lessens the administrative strain placed on Human Resources. Employee self-service not only helps businesses save time but also boosts employee engagement by providing workers more say in how HR-related tasks are handled within their organizations.
4. Strategic Workforce Planning
The success of a company is directly correlated to the quality of its personnel planning. HCM and HRIS systems are equipped with useful data analytics capabilities, which enable HR managers to examine patterns and trends in employee behavior. This method, which is powered by data, assists firms in making knowledgeable decisions on recruiting, the development of people, and succession planning. It guarantees that the appropriate individuals are filling the appropriate responsibilities at the appropriate times.
5. Compliance and Reporting
It is critical for businesses to ensure they are in compliance with all labor laws and regulations in order to prevent any legal concerns and penalties. HCM and HRIS software packages typically include compliance management tools that are designed to assist HR departments in keeping abreast of ever-evolving requirements. Additionally, the use of these technologies makes it much simpler to prepare compliance reports that are correct and on time, which in turn lowers the risk of non-compliance.
6. Enhanced Employee Experience
Employees are the most important part of any company, and the experience they have is quite important. By ensuring that HR procedures are both effective and open to employee scrutiny, HCM and HRIS technologies may contribute to the development of a great employee experience. These tools provide a streamlined and employee-focused experience throughout the whole employment lifecycle, from onboarding and performance management through benefits enrollment and career development.
7. Data-Driven Decision-Making
Organizations who are able to harness the power of data have an advantage over their competitors in the modern business climate, which is driven by data. HR professionals now have access to useful workforce statistics thanks to the implementation of HCM and HRIS systems. They are able to monitor important indicators such as staff turnover rates, employee engagement levels, and the efficacy of training. These insights make it possible for HR to make decisions supported by facts that contribute to the success of the firm and the enjoyment of its employees.
8. Scalability and Flexibility
As a company expands and adapts, its human resource requirements inevitably shift. Both scalability and adaptability are built into the architecture of HCM/HRIS systems. These technologies are able to scale along with your business, regardless of whether you are a fledgling startup or a global conglomerate. They provide versatility in terms of modification, making it possible for you to modify the system to match the specific HR procedures and requirements of your organization.
9. Cost Savings
Even though setting up an HCM/HRIS system takes an initial investment, doing so typically results in cost reductions over the longer run. As a consequence of the reduction in the demand for human labor brought about by the automation of repetitive operations, administrative expenses have been brought down. In addition, reductions in recruiting and training costs can result from enhanced workforce planning as well as talent management.
10. Competitive Advantage
In today’s highly competitive business environment, companies need to make the most of every edge they can get their hands on if they want to come out on top. Providing your firm with a competitive advantage might be as simple as putting in place an HCM/HRIS system. It enables you to more effectively adjust to shifting market conditions, maximize employee performance, attract and keep the best personnel, and enhance staff productivity.
As a conclusion, the compelling need for efficiency, data-driven decision-making, compliance, and enhanced employee experiences is driving the adoption of HCM/HRIS solutions. These systems provide HR professionals with the tools they need to become strategic partners inside their enterprises, which in turn contributes to the organizations’ long-term success and growth. The importance of HCM and HRIS systems in determining the nature of work in the years to come will increase in direct proportion to the rate of technological progress.
System Requirements of HCM/HRIS Systems
HCM systems frequently integrate HRIS features, making them flexible solutions for managing all elements of human resources. HRIS is an abbreviation for human resource information system. Now that we’ve covered everything, let’s talk about the top 10 HCM/HRIS systems and the needs those systems have.
1. Workday HCM
- System Requirements: Since Workday is a cloud-based system, you will need an up-to-date web browser and access to the internet in order to use it. It is usable on both the Windows and macOS operating systems.
2. SAP SuccessFactors
- System Requirements: Since Workday is a cloud-based system, you will need an up-to-date web browser and access to the internet in order to use it. It is usable on both the Windows and macOS operating systems.
3. Oracle Cloud HCM
- System Requirements: Oracle Cloud HCM is a system that is hosted in the cloud and can be accessed using web browsers. It is compatible with desktop computers running Windows or macOS, as well as mobile devices that can run specialized apps.
4. ADP Workforce Now
- System Requirements: ADP Workforce Now is a web-based application that is hosted in the cloud and is accessible via web browsers. It is available as a mobile app for both iOS and Android, in addition to being compatible with both Windows and macOS.
5. BambooHR
- System Requirements: The BambooHR platform is hosted in the cloud and can be accessed with any web browser. It is compatible with desktop computers running Windows or macOS, as well as mobile devices that can run specialized apps.
6. Kronos Workforce Ready/UKG Ready
- System Requirements: The Kronos Workforce Ready/UKG Ready software is hosted in the cloud and can be accessed using any web browser. It is compatible with desktop computers running Windows or macOS, as well as mobile devices that can run specialized apps.
7. Ultimate Software UltiPro
- System Requirements: Ultimate Software UltiPro is a cloud-based system accessible via web browsers. It’s compatible with Windows, macOS, and mobile devices through dedicated apps.
8. Ceridian Dayforce
- System Requirements: Ceridian Dayforce is a cloud-based system accessible via web browsers. It’s compatible with Windows, macOS, and mobile devices through dedicated apps.
9. Zenefits
- System Requirements: The Zenefits platform is hosted in the cloud and can be accessed with any web browser. It is compatible with desktop computers running Windows or macOS, as well as mobile devices that can run specialized apps.
10. Namely
- System Requirements: Namely is a web-based application that operates in the cloud and is accessible via web browsers. It is compatible with desktop computers running Windows or macOS, as well as mobile devices that can run specialized apps.
Common System Requirements:
- Internet Connectivity: Because they are mostly hosted in the cloud, all of these solutions demand that you have a reliable internet connection.
- Web Browsers: Chrome, Firefox, Safari, and Edge are examples of standard web browsers that are compatible with most operating systems.
- Operating Systems: Generally speaking, Android and iOS are both compatible with platforms that enable mobile app support. They are compatible with both Windows and macOS for desktop access.
- Hardware: There are often just minimal hardware requirements, and most current PCs and mobile devices are capable of meeting these needs.
How to Choose the Right System
When it comes to selecting the appropriate HCM/HRIS system for your firm, you need to take into consideration a variety of aspects in addition to the system needs, including the following:
- Features and Modules: Examine the particular functions and add-ons that are made available by each system to determine whether or not they meet the requirements of your company.
- Scalability: Think about if the system can scale along with your business as you add more people to the payroll.
- User-Friendliness: A user interface that is easy to understand and use may have a major influence on the amount of users and their productivity.
- Integration: Check to see if the system can be integrated with the other software and tools that you already have, such as those that monitor time or payroll.
- Customization: Check to see whether the software supports modification so it may be adapted to the specific HR procedures your company uses.
- Cost: It is important to have a thorough understanding of the price structure, which should include the initial setup expenses, membership fees, and any further charges.
- Customer Support: It is often essential to have dependable customer service in order to solve problems as promptly as possible.
- Security: Make that the system conforms with the data security and privacy requirements that are applicable to your sector of the economy.
- User Reviews: To determine whether or not users are satisfied with the system, input from other organizations that have already adopted it should be sought.
- Demo and Trial: Make use of the demonstrations and free trials that are made available by the service providers in order to gain practical experience with the system.
When picking the appropriate HCM/HRIS system for your firm, you can make an educated selection if you take into consideration the aforementioned aspects in addition to the system needs. Keep in mind that the finest solution for you will help you effectively manage your staff while also aligning with the particular HR demands of your organization.
Darren Trumbler is a versatile content writer specializing in B2B technology, marketing strategies, and wellness. With a knack for breaking down complex topics into engaging, easy-to-understand narratives, Darren helps businesses communicate effectively with their audiences.
Over the years, Darren has crafted high-impact content for diverse industries, from tech startups to established enterprises, focusing on thought leadership articles, blog posts, and marketing collateral that drive results. Beyond his professional expertise, he is passionate about wellness and enjoys writing about strategies for achieving balance in work and life.
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