Best Canadian HR Software Shortlist
Here’s my carefully curated list of the best HR solutions specifically for Canadian HR professionals, teams, and companies:
Navigating the HR landscape can be tough, but with our guide, you'll be able to make an informed decision that aligns with Canadian standards and requirements for companies of any size. Discover the top Canadian HR software options that I’ve carefully selected for their strong features, user-friendly interfaces, and innovative solutions that make HR tasks easier.
What is Canadian HR Software?
Canadian HR software refers to human resources software specifically designed for use in Canada by HR professionals. These digital solutions helps organizations simplify HR-related processes and talent management effectively. Canadian HR software typically includes features and functionalities that cater to Canadian businesses' specific needs and requirements such as compliance with Canadian labor laws and regulations.
Overviews of the 10 Best Canadian HR Software Systems
Here’s my assessment of each tool I chose for this top list, plus a summary of what I think it does best:
BrightHR
Best for health and safety compliance
BrightHR is a software solution for managing HR tasks in small to medium-sized businesses. Its purpose is to make managing employee data, schedules, absences, expenses, training, and secure document storage more efficient.
Why I picked Bright HR: I chose BrightHR because it provides expert guidance on employment relations and health and safety (through BrightSafe and BrightAdvice) to help businesses comply with Canadian laws and regulations. Additionally, it offers secure and unlimited document storage, which is essential for Canadian businesses to manage their data securely.
Bright HR Standout Features and Integrations:
Standout features include an innovative clocking app called Blip that allows employees to clock in and out of work without making contact. Additionally, the absence management system simplifies the process of tracking and managing employee absences, such as leaves, vacations, and time off in lieu.
Integrations include Gmail, Google Calendar, Microsoft Outlook, and PTO Genius.
NOTE: Pricing shown in the sidebar is in USD. Please visit the vendor’s website to confirm Canadian pricing details.
Pros
- Secure, unlimited document storage
- Supports Canadian legal compliance
- Easy to use
Cons
- Limited integrations
- Not available in the US
ADP
Best for automated payroll tasks
ADP is a comprehensive human capital management (HCM) platform designed to simplify and streamline payroll, HR, and tax services for businesses of all sizes.
Why I picked ADP: I chose ADP because it allows Canadian businesses to manage their workforce from one dashboard with accurate information. Additionally, ADP Workforce Now has cross-border capabilities, enabling Canadian companies to handle employees in both Canada and the US with one HR solution.
ADP Standout Features and Integrations:
Standout features include a robust payroll management system that handles all aspects from wage calculation to payment processing, and a comprehensive HR service suite that covers onboarding, benefits administration, and performance management.
Integrations include FinancialForce, Infor, Oracle, SAP, SuccessFactors, Workday, QuickBooks, Cornerstone, Greenhouse, and iCIMS.
Pros
- Provides expertise to support payroll and tax filing
- Efficient time and attendance tracking
- Scales with business size
Cons
- Learning curve
- Pricing details not transparent
Collage HR
Best for comprehensive HR management for small to medium businesses
Collage HR is a comprehensive human resources information system (HRIS) that automates and simplifies people management for small to medium-sized businesses. This tool is designed to replace manual tasks and spreadsheets with a user-friendly and feature-rich platform.
Why I picked Collage HR: I selected Collage HR for its commitment to following Canadian labor laws, which allows companies to effectively handle their core HR operations while complying with the country's legal guidelines. Additionally, Collage HR utilizes Canadian data centers, a crucial consideration for businesses with data storage requirements within the country.
Collage Standout Features and Integrations:
Standout features include a streamlined employee benefits management module that caters to Canadian companies offering diverse benefits packages. Additionally, Collage HR's time off management feature is tailored to meet Canadian employment standards, easing the administration of leaves of absence. Its advanced reporting and analytics capabilities provide valuable insights, aiding in data-driven decision-making.
Integrations include Slack, Gmail, Indeed, Google Calendar, Microsoft Outlook, Greenhouse, JazzHR, Green Places, and PTO Genius.
NOTE: Pricing shown in the sidebar is in USD. Please visit the vendor’s website to confirm Canadian pricing details.
Pros
- Integrates with payroll solutions
- Built-in benefits compliance
- Complies with Canadian labor laws
Cons
- No template option for surveys
- No mobile app
Folks HR
Best customizable HR management solution
Folks HR is a comprehensive human resources management software developed for the unique needs of small to medium-sized businesses in Canada. With a focus on simplifying HR processes and enhancing productivity, this cloud-based solution provides real-time HR data management, facilitates digitization of HR tasks, and ensures secure storage of critical information.
Why I picked Folks HR: I chose Folks HR for its comprehensive range of HR solutions and its capacity to tailor them to the unique needs of small businesses in Canada. Its software operates on the cloud, offering flexibility and convenience with continuous access available 24/7.
Folks HR Standout Features and Integrations:
Standout features include an innovative HR dashboard for real-time tracking of HR data and a paperless process approach that digitizes HR tasks. Folks HR also prioritizes data security, using advanced encryption algorithms to safeguard user data.
Integrations are available with payroll software like Optimum, and with leading third-party HR management tools such as Kissflow, HR Cloud, Zoho People, and ADP. Additionally, it can be incorporated with your existing business software to enhance current operations through an API.
Pros
- Offers 24/7 access to HR data
- High-level data security measures
- User-friendly HR dashboard
Cons
- Limited integrations
- No free trial
HRDownloads
Best HR content library for Canadian businesses
HRDownloads is a software platform that offers a range of features and services to help businesses manage various aspects of HR, compliance, and workplace safety.
Why I picked HRDownloads: I selected HRDownloads for their dedication to HR compliance in every Canadian region. They provide a reliable service that helps companies stay up-to-date with the latest HR regulations, greatly reducing compliance risks. Moreover, their extensive HR content library is tailored to fit the unique needs of every Canadian industry and region, and it comes with a wealth of resources like training materials and job descriptions.
HRDownloads Standout Features and Integrations:
Standout features include HR consulting services, including expert advice and support for HR-related issues. They also offer a range of training programs that cover a variety of HR-related topics, including compliance, performance management, and leadership development.
Integrations include ADP Workforce Now, BambooHR, Paychex Flex, QuickBooks, and Sage HRMS
Pros
- Provides HR training
- Great customer service
- Easy to use
Cons
- Some features have a learning curve
- Limited customization options
Celayix
Best employee scheduling software for Canadian businesses
Celayix is a workforce management and employee scheduling tool designed to streamline and automate the scheduling process, improve communication, and enhance overall efficiency in managing workforce-related tasks.
Why I picked Celayix: I selected Celayix for its advanced cost-benefit analyzer that allows Canadian businesses to generate their business case in minutes. This tool helps businesses assess the potential benefits and return on investment they can expect from implementing Celayix's workforce management software.
Celayix Standout Features and Integrations:
Celayix stands out with its robust scheduling features, including self-scheduling, shift bidding, and real-time communication. These features help businesses save time and improve overall workforce management. Additionally, Celayix provides an advanced employee mobile app and supervisor platform that allows for efficient employee check-in/out using geofencing and real-time employee attendance monitoring.
Integrations: Celayix offers a range of data connectors for real-time and batch modes, but for more details or specific inquiries, contact them directly.
Pros
- Offers a free trial
- Advanced mobile app
- Simple scheduling
Cons
- Limited integrations
- Learning curve
Avanti
Best human capital management solution for mid-size Canadian businesses
Avanti is a human capital management (HCM) software designed to help Canadian businesses manage their workforce. The platform integrates payroll, human resources, and time & attendance to streamline HCM processes from recruiting to retirement.
Why I picked Avanti: I selected Avanti because of its focus on mid-sized Canadian businesses, a demographic often overlooked by other HRM tools. Avanti caters to this group's specific needs and legal requirements, ensuring compliance with Canadian payroll legislation.
Avanti Standout Features and Integrations:
Avanti’s comprehensive suite of features integrates payroll, HR, and time and attendance, creating a seamless experience from recruitment to retirement. Its workforce management tools encompass everything from employee scheduling to performance tracking, while its recruiting and onboarding functionalities ensure a streamlined hiring process. Avanti simplifies benefits administration, allowing companies to easily handle health insurance, retirement plans, and other perks.
Integration details are not available, but Avanti does provide G/L exports and API endpoints for custom data integration.
Pros
- Hands-on support
- Includes reporting
- Easy to use
Cons
- Pricing not transparent
- No integrations
Synerion
Best for real-time data on employee productivity
Synerion is a cloud-based workforce management software that’s designed to help businesses manage their workforce more efficiently by providing real-time data on labor costs, automating time-consuming tasks, and improving employee productivity.
Why I picked Synerion: One of the reasons why I opted to include Synerion is because of its exceptional labor costing features. The software enables businesses to easily track where the most time is being spent on projects, allowing for precise and informed evaluations of profitability. With Synerion's Labour Costing software, you can compare planned vs. actual time to ensure projects stay on budget. It also allows you to accurately pay employees different rates depending on the tasks they perform, and to identify and take action to reduce non-billable hours.
Synerion Standout Features and Integrations:
One of the notable features of Synerion is its automated timekeeping processes, which make tasks more efficient and reduces the risk of errors. The software's scheduling tools also improve shift planning and management, while its absence management capabilities ensure accurate employee time-off tracking. Additionally, real-time labor cost data helps businesses adjust their budgeting and profitability accordingly.
Integrations include ADP, BambooHR, Ceridian, Deluxe, Desjardins, Nethris, Okta, Quickbooks, and Sage.
Pros
- Offers payroll integration
- Provides reports and analytics
- Responsive customer support
Cons
- No free trial
- Slight learning curve
Payworks
Best workforce management software for Canadian businesses
Payworks is a cloud-based total workforce management solution designed to offer payroll, human resources, employee time, and absence management for Canadian businesses.
Why I picked Payworks: I chose Payworks because it is specifically designed to comply with Canadian labor laws and regulations to minimize risks and ensure compliance. Additionally, the personalized customer support Payworks provides includes dedicated service representatives who offer extra reassurance to HR deparments.
Payworks Standout Features and Integrations:
Standout features include applicant tracking to streamline recruitment and workforce analytics that offer insights into workforce data. Their analytics feature allows you to easily interpret critical workforce data. Additionally, Payworks provides HR advisory services to ensure compliance with labor standards and legislation.
Integrations include QuickBooks online and Xero.
Pricing depends on your payroll frequency and province.
NOTE: Pricing shown in the sidebar is in USD. Please visit the vendor’s website to confirm Canadian pricing details.
Pros
- 12 Canadian offices
- Provides resources yearly for tax filings
- Easy to use
Cons
- No free trial
- Benefits package price not transparent
Guusto
Best HR software solution for employee recognition and rewards
Guusto is a Canadian employee recognition software and rewards platform designed to provide flexible, real dollar-value rewards without mandated accounts for all users.
Why I picked Guusto: I decided to go with Guusto due to its clear and straightforward pricing system. Their subscription fees are only charged to those who send recognition, which is a fair and reasonable approach. What really impressed me was their policy of crediting back unclaimed gifts, ensuring that every penny invested goes directly to benefit the employees.
Guusto Standout Features and Integrations:
One of Guusto’s standout features is that it allows users to donate a day's worth of access to clean water for each gift sent. Additionally, businesses have the option to start with a free account that allows them to send unlimited rewards and then easily transition to automated milestones and manager-specific budgets as they scale.
Integrations include HRIS systems like ADP Workforce Now, Alexis, HR Partner, and Ceridian Dayforce, SSO tools like Generic SAML, Microsoft Azure, OpenID, and Goole, and collaboration tools like Microsoft Teams and Slack.
NOTE: Pricing shown in the sidebar is in USD. Please visit the vendor’s website to confirm Canadian pricing details.
Pros
- Mobile app
- Lots of integrations
- Wide variety of merchant options
Cons
- Can’t pre-schedule rewards in advance
- Slight learning curve
The 10 Best Canadian HR Software Comparison Chart
This comparison chart summarizes basic details about each of my top Canadian HR software selections. You can view pricing details and the availability of free trials or demos side-by-side to help you find the best software for your budget and business needs.
Tool | Free Option | Price | ||
---|---|---|---|---|
1 | BrightHR Best for health and safety compliance | Free trial + free demo available | From $4.08/user/month | Visit Website |
2 | ADP Best for automated payroll tasks | Free demo available | Pricing upon request | Visit Website |
3 | Collage HR Best for comprehensive HR management for small to medium businesses | Free demo available | From $8/user/month | Visit Website |
4 | Folks HR Best customizable HR management solution | Free demo available | Pricing upon request | Visit Website |
5 | HRDownloads Best HR content library for Canadian businesses | Free demo available | From $699 CAD/year | Visit Website |
6 | Celayix Best employee scheduling software for Canadian businesses | 14-day free trial | Pricing upon request | Visit Website |
7 | Avanti Best human capital management solution for mid-size Canadian businesses | Free demo available | Pricing upon request | Visit Website |
8 | Synerion Best for real-time data on employee productivity | Free demo available | From $2/employee/month | Visit Website |
9 | Payworks Best workforce management software for Canadian businesses | Free demo available | From $44/employee/month | Visit Website |
10 | Guusto Best HR software solution for employee recognition and rewards | Free plan available | From $96/month for 35 users (additional users $2.70/month) | Visit Website |
Other Options
Here’s a roundup of other Canadian-built HR software systems that are solid options worth considering, even though they didn’t secure a spot in my top 10 shortlist:
- Rise
Best personalized HR management system for Canadian businesses
- Humi
Best for centralizing employee data
- Workday
Best for business financial management
- WorkTango
Best for collecting employee feedback
- Vantage Circle
Best platform for employee experience
- Achievers
Best for employee management
- Ceridian Dayforce
Best for HR analytics
- Mitrefinch
Best for managing employee timesheets
- SAP SuccessFactors
Best for employee learning and development
- Sage HRMS
Best for managing employee data
Selection Criteria for Canadian HR Software
Here’s a short summary of the main selection and evaluation criteria I used to develop my list of the best Canadian HR software for this article:
Core Functionalities
Through extensive research and personal testing, I have identified specific features that are crucial for effective HR management in Canadian software tools. I will provide more detail on these essential functionalities in the following sections.
- Payroll management: Canadian HR software should be able to handle payroll calculations, deductions, and remittances in compliance with Canadian tax rules and regulations.
- Employee information management: HR software should provide a comprehensive employee database to track and manage detailed employee information, including profiles, education, skills, and training.
- Compliance management: Canadian HR software should help businesses adhere to federal, provincial, and territorial employment laws and regulations. This includes features for tracking and managing compliance requirements.
Key Features
In addition to the basic functionalities above, I also evaluated the following key features to make my final selections for the best Canadian HR software:
- Employee performance evaluation: HR software should provide tools and features to facilitate performance evaluations and assessments of employees.
- Employee onboarding: HR software should offer features to streamline and automate the onboarding process for new employees, including tasks such as document collection, orientation, and training.
- Absence management: HR software should include features for tracking and managing employee absences, such as vacation time, sick leave, and other types of time off.
- HR key performance indicators (KPIs): HR software should provide analytics and reporting capabilities to track and measure HR-related metrics and KPIs, allowing businesses to gain insights and make data-driven decisions.
Usability
I always consider the user-friendliness and intuitiveness of the software systems I review. It should be easy to navigate and require minimal training for users to effectively utilize its functionalities. That’s why I look for a clean and intuitive interface, customizable dashboards, and mobile accessibility.
Software Integrations
I’ve checked whether each software system can integrate with other systems and tools many organizations use, such as payroll systems, time and attendance systems, and applicant tracking systems. Seamless integration can streamline processes and eliminate manual data entry.
Reports and Analytics
The depth of each software's reporting and analytics capabilities is also important. I looked for features that provide real-time, actionable insights to help you make data-driven decisions. This could include customizable dashboards, predictive modeling, self-service insights, and data visualization tools.
Pricing
I’ve evaluated the cost structure of the HR software, including licensing fees, implementation costs, ongoing maintenance fees, and any additional charges for support or upgrades. It’s also important to consider the scalability of the pricing model as your organization grows.
People Also Ask
Let’s take a moment to clarify some popular questions regarding the use of Canadian HR software.
Why is it better for Canadian companies to use HR software developed in Canada?
What are some aspects of HR software that are unique to Canadian needs?
Do you have other HR resources specifically for Canadian organizations?
How can I tell which HR software is right for my organization?
Other HR Software Reviews:
I’ve also reviewed other types of HR software extensively. Consider checking them out for further insights:
- Best HR Software: Reviewed & Compared
- Best Human Resources Management Software (HRMS)
- Best HR Software for Payroll
- Best Onboarding Software for Training New Hires
- Best Payroll Software
Final Thoughts
Choosing the right HR software is a critical decision for any Canadian business. Great HR software doesn't just streamline processes; it can significantly influence your company’s culture and overall productivity. In a country with specific legal and cultural nuances like Canada, having a tool that understands and adapts to these specificities is invaluable.
People Managing People is dedicated to helping you, well, manage people. Our site is filled with actionable insights, deep dives into relevant topics, and practical advice from industry experts. Don't miss our expert insights – subscribe today to stay ahead in the evolving world of HR management.