Webinar Recap: Considerations in selecting an HRIS from among the many different options and providers
Navigating the crowded marketplace of Human Resources Information Systems (HRIS) can be overwhelming. It involves thorough research to understand each provider’s business model and the platform’s integration capabilities with a business’ existing technology and human skillset.
In a recent PBO Advisory Group webinar with Sensiba (“Do You Have the Right Systems in Place for Your Business?”), PBO Advisory’s Consulting Chief People Officer Nicole Devine and PBO’s Consulting HR Director were joined by Sensiba’s Sage Intacct Practice Director Tom Achor for an in-depth look at how companies can select the right HRIS.
>>> WATCH THE FULL WEBINAR HERE <<<
Below are key takeaways regarding how to choose an HRIS that aligns with your goals and can be optimized for success.
- Bring in a Subject Matter Expert: The three panelists agreed that having an HRIS “guru” by your side takes a lot of the guesswork and stress out of selecting an HRIS. BO’s Consulting HR Director highlighted the value of a subject-matter expert in interpreting what salespeople are offering and ensuring the right questions are asked. “This is probably the best time to bring in a subject matter expert who knows multiple systems, who knows the market, who knows the ins and outs,” he said. SMEs can help translate technical jargon and clarify what a system truly offers, preventing miscommunication and overselling.
- Ask for Referrals and Recommendations: Referrals and recommendations from trusted sources can provide valuable insights and firsthand experiences that are not available in marketing materials. Ask colleagues or industry peers in your professional networks about their HRIS experiences for practical insights and unbiased opinions and advice.
- Understand Integration and Ownership Models: It’s crucial to know whether the HRIS is fully owned or relies on partnerships. Tom shared an example of how an unexpected change in an HRIS provider’s partnership disrupted operations when it resulted in the replacement of an embedded reporting feature. “That was a shock to everybody,” Tom said. Partnership models can result in finger-pointing and delays in issue resolution when problems arise. Understanding the business model behind the system can help anticipate such issues, while opting for systems that are fully owned or have minimal reliance on external partners can mitigate these risks.
- Evaluate System Flexibility and API Compatibility: An open vs. closed application programming interface (API) can significantly impact how well an HRIS will integrate with other systems. An API is a set of rules and protocols that allows different software applications to communicate and interact with each other, enabling them to exchange data and functionality seamlessly. It acts as an intermediary that specifies how software components should interact. Ensuring the HRIS can easily integrate with your existing tools is essential for smooth operations.
Choosing the right HRIS is a complex but critical task that requires careful consideration of various factors. By bringing in a subject-matter expert and following the advice above, businesses can make informed decisions that align with their goals and future growth. Thorough research and strategic planning are essential to select an HRIS that not only meets current needs but also adapts to evolving requirements, ensuring long-term success and efficiency.
Previously in this series: Choosing the Right HRIS Part 1: The Essential Criteria
