Techblog
Self-service HR tools help SMEs reduce resource needs
Features such as e-leave, payroll and even management of staff information can be automated and consolidated so smaller companies don’t need to be bogged down by manual processes.
By the myBusiness techblog team
Small and Medium-sized Enterprises (SMEs) rely on their agility and speed to compete with larger enterprises, but there are internal processes that suck up resources that can be deployed more efficiently elsewhere. Manual human resource (HR) processes is one of these.
It's almost out of sync with an increasingly technology-reliant world that companies continue to track workers’ leave applications, time cards or payroll statements via paper-based systems. These processes take up time, weigh down the storage and archival capacity and are are often error-laden.
As such, automating one's HR system by consolidating and offering employees a one-stop self-service portal seems like a necessary step forward.
According to an article by HR Web site Inspireme, automating everyday HR processes such as leave application and clock-in times with an integrated offering would free up staff to spend more time dealing with issues and initiatives that more positively impact the company's business growth.
One example of this is the planning and managing of a recruitment campaign. It noted: "With the ability to create vacancies, track and monitor applications, manage the hiring process and transfer new starters direct to the payroll, SMEs can save time, money and resource."
The article also pointed out having such automated tools can also lead to better business growth due to more efficient talent development.
"Small business owners want the ability to drill down into the core data and make use of reports on turnover, absence analysis, employee training, recruitment and KPIs (key performance indicators) for clients - allowing progress to be monitored at the touch of a button."
For example, many of these capabilities can be found on the MecWise Employee Self-Service solution. The software-as-a-service (SaaS) solution offers plug-and-play convenience, while providing features such as an Employee Profile Master database and the ability to track their career progression in a centralised system.
That said, business owners should recognise that they need to first be clear about their long-term goals and align their choice of solution with the objectives.
One report by an online software guide site, SMESoftwareSolutions.com, stated for small businesses looking to acquire HR products, the bottomline for owners is a need to review and determine what is best for the company. For instance, if it aims to add more employees over time, the software should be catered toward recruitment and talent management.
Also, SMEs need to have a budget in mind when procuring the software.
"Among the biggest mistakes to avoid is not starting the process with a budget in mind. By having an initial project budget in mind, your business can stay within reason, yet still adjust and adapt when necessary without spending too much money," the report warned.
In the end, correctly chosen and implemented self-service HR tools will go a long way in helping SMEs achieve the business goals and success they have projected for.