Few software solutions receive as much attention as Payroll systems and for good reason. Payroll can be complex—with business rules, integration to HR software and back-office finance, approval processing and workflow automation, and internal and regulatory reporting. Payroll software can be deployed as a stand-alone solution, outsourced, or rolled into an integrated workforce management suite. Automating the pay process is a good first step, but tying organizational requirements and vendor capabilities isn't always straightforward. Here we review and compare market leading payroll software systems to understand fit, differentiation, unique value, advantages and disadvantages.
Payroll Software Systems
Payroll is a complex and integral business process for all organizations, regardless of industry or size. With points that intersect Finance, Compensation Management, and Human Capital Management (HCM), the need for an automated payroll solution is key to efficiency and accuracy; and a reason why Payroll Software, payroll outsourcing, and integrated HRMS solutions are receiving so much attention.
Ceridian's HR/Payroll Latitude software solution is a basic and well-designed offering that has a sizeable customer base across North America and the UK. Our independent software review takes an in-depth examination of the capabilities, strengths and weaknesses of the system to see if this application may hit the sweet spot for your organization.
Ultimate Software has achieved one of the most successful transitions from traditional "on-premise" HR and payroll software to Software-as-a-Service and cloud HR, payroll and talent management solutions. Here we examine Ultimate's UltiPro Enterprise product to see if the solution hits your organization's "sweet spot", and to dive deeper into the software's strengths, weaknesses, and viability.
Workforce Central Suite is a combination HRMS and Talent Management offering that is increasing in popularity and global adoption for the Time & Attendance giant Kronos. In this Workforce Central Suite HRMS review, we examine the viability, capability, and technology of this HR system to see if the suite hits the sweet spot for your organization.
Meta4's PeopleNet solution has gone from a 1990s leader to a middle-of-the-pack provider, but is beginning another ascent as global adoption of its HCM software solution increases. This in-depth analysis (replete with strengths, weaknesses, and competitive differentiators) provides the information needed to determine whether Meta4's solution is the right fit for you.
With a robust international offering and an HR software suite that is almost entirely customizable, NuViewHR is a niche player that has turned into a best-of-breed HRMS contender. However, whether the solution can deliver the functionality your organization needs can only be answered by reviewing our in-depth analysis of NuViewHR's full product solution.
Following proven processes leads to predictable results. For successful payroll software selection projects, begin by reviewing what analyst firm Gartner calls the most strategic selection methodology steps—the three specific analysis tasks of 1) Organizational "demand" analysis; 2) Vendor "supply" analysis; and 3) Final cost analysis.
Payroll software has been utilized since GE rolled it out in 1954. While many elements of that first payroll system are still used today, payroll software has since evolved into a complex business application that requires thorough review prior to selecting the solution that is the best fit for your organization. That selection hinges on 5 key factors—discussed more in depth here.
The payroll software selection process can be confusing and rife with problems for the organization that isn't adequately prepared. To help with this critical process, HR Lab has put together a quick 6 question guide to get you started—questions that you will undoubtedly need answered in order to make an informed purchase decision.
Payroll Software can increase efficiencies and lower costs but can also increase employee engagement, help with regulatory compliance, improve the environment, mitigate the chance and liability for tax penalties, and raise the competitiveness of your organization. Here we review 5 strategic reasons that organizations may benefit from internal payroll processing.