Automating HR

Why Automating HR Makes Business Sense for SMEs

What is a HRMS?

HRMS, which is the common acronym used to describe a Human Resource Management System, essentially refers to a software application or platform. This system automates, integrates, and manages the core HR processes of an organization. By doing so, it streamlines various functions, thereby enhancing operational efficiency. Additionally, HRMS provides valuable insights into employee data and performance metrics, which can inform strategic decision-making. Ultimately, implementing an HRMS not only simplifies administrative tasks but also supports overall organizational growth and development.

Commonly, the processes automated in these systems cover the full employee life cycle. Specifically, these processes include the management of employee and organizational information, recruitment, payroll, benefits, attendance and leave, claims, performance, and learning and development. Moreover, by integrating these various functions, HRMS ensures a seamless flow of information, which enhances overall efficiency. Consequently, organizations can effectively manage their workforce while minimizing administrative burdens. Ultimately, this comprehensive approach not only improves operational processes but also contributes to employee satisfaction and engagement.

Understanding HR Management Systems (HRMS)

HR Management Systems were traditionally implemented in organizations that could accommodate the necessary IT infrastructure and specialists to host and administer a system for large numbers of employees. However, with advancements in technology, the landscape has significantly changed. Now, even smaller organizations can leverage cloud-based solutions that offer similar functionalities without the need for extensive in-house resources. Consequently, this shift has made HRMS more accessible, allowing businesses of all sizes to benefit from streamlined processes and improved employee management. Ultimately, the evolution of HR Management Systems has paved the way for greater efficiency and flexibility in human resources practices.

Advances in Technology in HRMS

Thanks to advances in technology, a HR Management System (HRMS) is now accessible to even the smallest organizations. Moreover, these systems are available through cost-effective and secure cloud-based platforms. As a result, the latest HRMS solutions have become straightforward, easily administered, and can be utilized by individuals with little or no technical knowledge. This democratization of technology not only enhances operational efficiency but also empowers smaller organizations to streamline their HR processes effectively.

Automating HR
Why should SMEs implement a HRMS?

Implementing a HR Management System (HRMS) brings numerous benefits at a surprisingly low cost per employee. Consequently, this makes it a common-sense business decision for organizations of all sizes. Not only does an HRMS streamline administrative tasks, but it also enhances data accuracy and accessibility, thereby improving overall efficiency. Furthermore, by automating repetitive processes, organizations can allocate their resources more effectively, ultimately leading to increased productivity and employee satisfaction.

The latest HR Management Systems (HRMS) are designed to gather HR operational planning, processes, and administration into one central system. Consequently, this centralization streamlines, automates, and optimizes HR activities. Moreover, where required, these systems can also be linked to other internal or external systems, providing a seamless experience for administrators, managers, and employees alike. By facilitating this integration, organizations can enhance collaboration and improve the overall efficiency of their HR operations.

SMEs have characteristics that make implementing a HRMS even more important, including the following:

    Need to manage a diverse and sometimes transient workforce

      Small and Medium Enterprises (SMEs) are more likely to use contract staff or hire part-time employees, which can complicate workforce management. Specifically, this diverse workforce mix poses challenges regarding record-keeping, payroll, and expenses. However, by implementing a HR Management System (HRMS), organizations can standardize and streamline processing. Additionally, HRMS platforms provide timely prompts when actions need to be taken, ensuring that no critical tasks are overlooked. Ultimately, this leads to improved efficiency and accuracy in managing a varied workforce.

      Need to remain adaptable and flexible

        Small and Medium Enterprises (SMEs) must be able to react quickly to changing circumstances and seize new opportunities. Moreover, they also need to respond effectively to evolving rules and regulations that impact their workforce. By doing so, SMEs can not only remain compliant but also capitalize on emerging trends in their industry, ensuring sustained growth and competitiveness.

        The right HRMS can increase flexibility with features such as anytime, anywhere access, customisable data fields, rapid report production to aid decision-making, and centralised payroll and benefits management.

            Need to keep overhead costs low

                Small and Medium Enterprises (SMEs) are subject to the same compliance regulations as any other organization regarding employee details and record-keeping; however, many cannot afford to hire a dedicated HR professional. Consequently, a good HRMS will keep track of mandatory compliance responsibilities, such as prompting the renewal of passports, visas, or identity cards, along with payments of claims and benefits.

                Furthermore, automating HR operations can significantly enhance employee satisfaction because it improves both the accuracy and speed of processing for services such as leave approval or medical fees reimbursement. As a result, investing in a HRMS means that businesses can expand before having to invest in a HR team.

                Compliance and Efficiency in HR Operations

                Additionally, another potential saving is that the latest systems often provide ready-made, fully compliant people policies, procedures, and workflows that can be customized to the location or specific needs of the organization. Since many SMEs may not have their own set of HR standards in place, this can save considerable effort while ensuring that the company remains compliant with local labor laws and regulations.

                Moreover, typical standardized processes include payroll, employee grievance handling, request administration, and performance management, all of which contribute to a more efficient HR operation.

                cost reduction
                What are the typical features of a HRMS?

                While features and functionality can vary from one system to another, the core set of functions typically include:

                  Recruitment

                  Employee Onboarding

                  Time, Attendance and Leave Management

                  Compensation and Benefits Management

                  Payroll Management and Processing

                  Travel and Reimbursement Processing

                  Training and Development

                  Performance Management

                  Employee Self Service

                  Employee Document Management

                  Exit Management

                  Reporting

                  Some systems, such as HRBluSky, are now leveraging the latest technology to provide additional levels of functionality that improve the employee experience and make HR processing even more efficient. 

                  These include features such as facial recognition for time and attendance, direct access via the system to external service providers for tasks such as visa processing, payroll, and medical insurance provision, and smart search capability.

                  What other benefits does a HRMS provide?
                    Reduced Costs:


                    The latest cloud systems are cost-effective because they do not require heavy infrastructure and require little configuration and setup. Consequently, this enables easier adoption by employees and HR administrators. Moreover, the cost per employee is typically low, and significant savings come from the improved efficiency and productivity in processing and administration.

                    Improved Speed of Handling New Employees:


                    Recruitment and onboarding cycles can be reduced significantly as processes are standardized and centralized. Additionally, smart links to service providers for core functions, such as visa processing, ensure that the process is streamlined and less subject to human error.

                    Improved Employee Experience:


                    The employee experience is enhanced through features such as mobile accessibility, self-service functions, and transparent access to information. Furthermore, the processing of training and performance management improves, as does communication and visibility of data, which help to support engagement, performance, and employee retention.

                    Increased Accuracy to Support Decision-Making:


                    Increased data accuracy leads to less re-work, thereby enabling a seamless information flow across departments. As a result, there is improved confidence in data analysis and reporting from senior management.

                    Adherence to Data Privacy and Compliance:


                    This feature is particularly important in countries that are subject to frequent changes in labor laws or where there is a high level of diversity in the nationality of the workforce and associated rules and regulations. Therefore, ensuring compliance becomes a critical aspect of HR operations.

                    Things to consider when selecting the best HRMS for your organisation

                    Finding the right HRMS for your organisation can seem like a daunting experience. At HRBluSky we are always happy to spend time with you to understand your needs, explain features in detail, and guide you on how our HRMS can support your business needs.  

                    Searching Best HRMS

                    Here are some key points to consider:

                      Start by documenting needs and priorities. And perform a comparative analysis to choose the HRMS that best fits your needs. Your HR requirements will vary based on your organisational maturity and workforce demographics. While one organisation may need advanced learning and development functionality, another might need more advanced compensation and benefits functionality, so look for a system that is configurable to your requirements.

                      Make sure that your selection process includes presentations from the service providers and ask for details of what differentiates them from their competitors.

                      Avail of a free trial so that you can get hands-on exposure to the system and assess the level of simplicity for administrators and employees.

                      Look at support provided for the outsourcing of functionalities to service providers. As an SME, you will reap benefits from having a system that links to professional service providers rather than having to build the expertise and size of your HR team.

                      When considering overall costs, consider ease of deployment, maintenance, and handling of compliance and data privacy laws.

                      Digitalisation is here to stay, and businesses of all sizes must use technology to gain a competitive edge. Our state-of-the-art system, HRBluSky offers you a free trial so that you can explore the features with no financial outlay. If you’re wondering when to invest in a HRMS, the answer is now!

                        Enhanced Collaboration Across Departments:


                        A well-implemented HRMS fosters enhanced collaboration across departments by providing a centralized platform for communication and information sharing. For instance, when HR, finance, and operations can access the same data, it reduces misunderstandings and promotes teamwork. Moreover, this collaborative approach not only streamlines processes but also ensures that everyone is aligned with the organization’s goals, ultimately contributing to a more cohesive work environment.

                        Scalability for Future Growth:


                        One of the significant advantages of a cloud-based HRMS is its scalability, which allows organizations to adapt quickly to growth. As businesses expand, they can seamlessly add new functionalities and users without needing to overhaul their existing systems. Consequently, this flexibility means that SMEs can invest in the HRMS confidently, knowing it will grow alongside their operations and meet their evolving needs.

                        In HRBluSky, communication is key to improving the employee experience.