Should you consider an HRIS?

I have so much information I have to keep track of and I just had to redo one of my spreadsheets because of an entry mistake.  Is there anything out there that will help me?

There is definitely a better way now and options that meet the needs of any size business. Many types and sizes of Human Resources Information Systems (HRIS) are available now that were not even 5 years ago.

Dealing with the demand for information for both business reasons and compliance reasons has become a major portion of the job of a company's Human Resources people. In small and medium sized companies, it is not unusual for an employee to provide both human resources support and other duties ranging from office or facilities management to accounting and finance.

For many years, these employees have become "wizards" of the spreadsheet and/or database applications in order to meet their obligations. As this client points out, the problem is that it is easy to make an error on a spreadsheet that may or may not be detected immediately.

In addition, using spreadsheets or stand-alone database applications may require multiple points of data entry which creates opportunities for errors to creep into the data you are trying so hard to keep correctly.

The really good news is that, not only can a HRIS help protect data integrity, but it can also reduce the cost of the work. Here are a few ways companies can realize cost savings from implementing an HRIS:

•   Automation of Time-intensive Leave Tracking
•   Automation of Reports such as EEO-1
•   Integration with Payroll which eliminates double entry and checking
•   Accurate reports to review benefits costs

One of the major concerns employers have had regarding HRIS programs is the problem of implementation and then maintenance of the system. Now, many HRIS providers will either host the system or have a Web application that requires no IT assistance at the user end. Implementation can be supported by TPO or through the consulting services provided directly by the HRIS provider.

If you are interested in reviewing how an HRIS could help your business be more productive, call TPO and we will help you view some possible solutions that might be best for your organization.

TPO is an award-winning firm established in 1991 made up of a group of highly experienced, nationally certified HR experts and trainers. TPO is licensed by the State of California (PI-25638) to provide investigative services. For more information, please contact us at 800-277-8448 or visit our web site www.tpohr.com.

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2011 TPO Human Resource Management. No part of this article may be reproduced, excerpted or redistributed in any form without express written permission from TPO Human Resource Management.