With so many human resources information systems (HRIS) on the market that vary greatly in terms of user experience, performance, features, and hosting options, we wanted to recognize some of the best HRIS systems out there today. We chose these systems based on our professional opinion and user reviews left on TechnologyAdvice.

What is HRIS software?

Vital employee information for use across a business’s many human resources functions lives within a human resources information systems (HRIS) software. HR enters personal information related to payroll, benefits, time tracking, and performance for every employee into the system, which makes that information available for analysis and reporting. An HRIS also ensures that a company complies with regional and federal regulations regarding employment documentation, benefits, pay, time off, and the secure storage of employee contact information. An employee accesses their contact information, address, and government ID numbers in the HRIS via a self-service portal. HR staff can update records across the software and integrated apps, and employees can use the self-service portal to keep their records up to date. The system then uses that employee data for key HR functions, which reduces the amount of manual data entry each HR team member must perform, thus reducing time and money lost to human error. Human resources staff controls employee data and organizational tasks in the HRIS. Today’s best tools help companies save money by combining features found in standalone software systems Large and growing businesses can find additional recruiting software and applicant tracking software features in their HRIS. Other software options manage accounting software tasks by integrating with payroll features. Many HRIS vendors also improve employee engagement metrics with valuable features from performance management software, learning management software, or gamification software. HRIS software systems come in all sizes, but they are best suited to medium and large businesses. The software can be complicated and expensive to implement, so smaller companies may build similar capabilities from interconnected standalone options. For some companies, an HRIS isn’t the best option. Large, multinational, and enterprise businesses integrate key financial and supply chain data with HR data within an enterprise resource planning (ERP) software. These combined data points provide context that can then be used for forecasting and hiring trends. Because HRIS software contains personal identifying information for all of the company’s employees and contractors, these systems are key targets for hackers looking for unsecured data. Companies purchasing an HRIS should consider how the vendor will protect their data. Research encryption standards, the security of cloud or on-premise database options, and the vendor’s track record of visibility into any previous breaches. These HRIS platforms may be some of the most highly-rated solutions by popular agreement, but they won’t be right for everyone. Use our HR Software Buyers Guide or click the banner below to get a shortlist of the best HR software for your business. [cta-two]Get a free shortlist of the best HR software for your business[/cta-two]

Key features of HRIS platforms

While there are many HRIS systems on the market, most of them incorporate these key features.

Applicant tracking system

An applicant tracking system (ATS) makes hiring easier by consolidating information about applicants, job postings, and interviews into a single location. ATS can also make the candidate experience better by streamlining the application process and improving recruiters’ workflows, so they can contact good candidates faster. An ATS features a searchable database that lets you look for previous candidates who might now be a good fit for your company and reach out to them, saving you money on job board postings.

Onboarding

Onboarding new hires is a time-consuming process, but an HRIS can streamline it and make it easier. The software can automatically send new hire paperwork, prompt your new employees to create logins for the necessary sites or applications, and collect tax and payroll information. Many HRIS platforms also include learning management features to make training easier and more effective. By automating these processes, an HRIS reduces the workload for your HR staff and improves the new hire experience.

Time and attendance tracking

HRIS software should include time and attendance tracking to simplify payroll and leave requests. Many platforms include an employee self-service portal where employees can request time off, track the amount of paid time off (PTO) they have left, and see their hours for the week. By making this information available for employees, you can reduce the amount of time HR staff has to spend answering questions about it.

Payroll

Payroll features in an HRIS work with the time and attendance tracking to make payday easier. It automatically pulls and consolidates timesheets to pay your hourly employees accurately. It also automatically calculates taxes and benefits to withhold the correct amount. Many payroll systems include an employee self-serve portal where employees can upload receipts or mileage for reimbursement and look at their pay stub.  

Choosing the best HRIS for your business

The best HRIS for your business will depend on your company size and the features and functions you want to prioritize. If your company is rapidly growing, an HRIS with a robust ATS will probably be the most beneficial for your HR department. If your organization is an enterprise business with a lot of employees, streamlining payroll and time and attendance tracking may be your priority. Still not sure which HRIS is right for you? Use our HR Software Buyers Guide to get a short, unbiased list of software tailored to your company’s needs.
Forrest Brown Avatar
Forrest Brown
Forrest Brown is a writer for TechnologyAdvice, where he writes about the intersection of business and technology. Originally from Atlanta, he lives in Nashville with his wife and calico cat.