20 Best HR Management Software for 2024: Reviewed & Compared
10 Best HR Management Software Shortlist
Here's my pick of the 10 best software from the 20 tools reviewed.
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There are seemingly countless HR management software solutions available, so figuring out which is best for you is tough. You want to centralize employee data, and simplify processes like recruitment, onboarding, payroll, performance management, and benefits administration—but now need to figure out which tool is the best fit. In this post, I make things simple, leveraging my experience as an HR expert and using dozens of different HR management tools to bring you this shortlist of the best HR management software overall.
What is HR Management Software?
HR management software is a digital solution designed to handle various human resource functions within an organization. It centralizes employee data management, streamlines processes such as recruitment, onboarding, payroll, performance evaluations, and benefits administration.
The purpose of HR management tools is to facilitate the efficient handling of HR tasks, reducing manual workload and improving data organization. It aids in compliance with labor laws and provides analytical tools for informed decision-making.
Best HR Management Software Reviews
Here are my detailed summaries of the best HR management software that made it into my top 10 list, including notes on why I picked them. Each review offers a detailed look at the key features, integrations, and ideal use cases of each system to help you find the best software for your needs.
Deel is a cloud-based HR management software that offers solutions for human resources, payroll, and compliance. With Deel, you can easily manage your entire HR operations from one place.
Why I picked Deel: Deel offers many features to help streamline your HR processes. You can use it to track employee leave time and keep accurate records of attendance and performance reviews. It allows you to automate onboarding, offer employee benefits packages, manage training programs and more.
With its intuitive interface and easy-to-use dashboard, Deel is ideal for companies of any size or sector who want to ensure efficient HR operations globally. Their platform HR platform is currently available in 150+ countries.
Deel Standout Features and Integrations:
Features include global payroll, automations, contractor payments, invoice generation, payslips, taxes, accounting software integration, and compliance.
In addition to its powerful features, Deel also provides robust security measures so that all data remains secure at all times.
Integrations include Ashby, BambooHR, Expensify, Greenhouse, Hibob, Netsuite, Okta, OneLogin, Quickbooks, SCIM, Xero, Workday, and Workable. They also have an API, where you can connect Deel to tools beyond their pre-built integrations to automate and sync data across your HR tech stack.
Workable HR is a comprehensive HR management software with an HRIS designed to help organizations onboard new employees and manage information.
Why I picked Workable HR: Its HRIS allows for the organization of employee information with customizable profile templates and centralized storage for company documents. This feature is particularly beneficial for maintaining accurate and up-to-date employee records. Workable also automates org chart updates and facilitates time-off tracking and approvals, which simplifies administrative tasks and ensures compliance with company policies.
I also like Workable has an onboarding portal, allowing new hires to fill out information and upload essential documents in one place. HR teams can also customize onboarding workflows based on roles, ensuring that new employees only receive the most relevant information and only have to complete the necessary steps for their role.
Workable HR Standout Features and Integrations:
Key features include e-signature collection, an employee directory, and a recruiting suite that includes internal job boards, referral tracking, employee surveys, an analytics dashboard, customizable workflows, and automated email templates.
Integrations include Slack, LinkedIn, Indeed, Google Calendar, Microsoft Outlook, BambooHR, Zapier, Namely, ADP, Greenhouse, Checkr, Sapling, Hibob, and DocuSign.
GoCo is an all-in-one HR platform designed to consolidate HR, payroll, benefits, time tracking, compliance, and reporting for small and mid-sized businesses.
Why I picked GoCo: I like that the platform offers everything you need in one place, which is ideal for small and mid-sized businesses. It has an intuitive employee onboarding process, which automates the entire experience from document management to task assignments. The software also offers robust benefits administration, simplifying enrollment and compliance with ACA regulations, and has a payroll system that manages everything from taxes to deductions, ensuring accuracy and compliance.
GoCo also excels in compliance management with live HR expert support and a comprehensive suite of tools to keep businesses updated on the latest HR regulations. Furthermore, GoCo offers advanced reporting and insights that provide real-time data on HR metrics, facilitating informed decision-making.
GoCo Standout Features and Integrations:
Key features include performance reviews, employee surveys, time-off tracking, document management, workflow automation, org charts, e-signatures, policy acknowledgments, audit logs, PTO accruals, employee directory, offer letters, onboarding checklists, task management, automated reminders, and compensation tracking.
Integrations include QuickBooks, Xero, Gusto, ADP, BambooHR, Namely, Zenefits, Workday, Rippling, Paychex, TriNet, Justworks, Greenhouse, Lever, JazzHR, Indeed, ZipRecruiter, and over 100 other apps.
Rippling is a cloud-based HR management system that acts as a single source of truth for employee data with numerous automations to reduce manual work.
Why I picked Rippling: Its HR management software is available in three distinct bundles: Workforce Platform, HR Cloud, and IT Cloud. All three products operate seamlessly or can be purchased independently, depending on your business needs. Due to their sophisticated IT and global features, their software is well-suited to support distributed workforces.
Rippling Standout Features and Integrations:
Their Workforce Platform offers strong workflow automations and process improvement tools for workforce management, including tools for onboarding & offboarding and document approvals using e-signatures.
Their HR Cloud includes a suite of flexible modules for core HR tasks, including full-service payroll software with time-tracking and benefits administration data automatically synced to payroll to improve productivity and payroll accuracy. They even offer professional employer organization (PEO) services for organizations interested in hiring international talent, including international benefit plans, compliance tracking, and global payroll processing.
Still within their HR Cloud, their talent management and recruitment module features one-click job postings to multiple job boards, an applicant tracking system to organize candidates, and automatic interview scheduling through calendar integrations. To round that all out, their HR Cloud also includes a flexible learning management system (LMS) with 1,000+ pre-built courses and tools to build your own, plus automations to assign, remind and track course completion.
Last but not least, their IT Cloud offering really sets them apart from other traditional HRIS platforms. Within it, they offer advanced device & inventory management features to track, update, lock and wipe devices, manage security threats, and organize software (including purchasing apps and hardware) for new employees. In addition, they have app & identity management tools for password management, software lifecycle management, provisioning & de-provisioning of software licenses, multi-factor authentication, and single sign-on services too.
Integrations are available with 500+ third-party software systems through their App Shop. If needed, you can also set up custom integrations through their API too.
They do have two mobile apps as well: “Rippling - Time Clock” for clocking in/out, and “Rippling - Simplify HR & IT” for viewing pay stubs, managing time-off, accessing the employee directory, and managing passwords and apps.
Paycor is a comprehensive human capital management (HCM) platform that provides businesses with integrated solutions for HR and payroll management.
Why I picked Paycor: Paycor stands out for its ability to automate key HR functions, offer insights into workforce management, and simplify compliance, positioning it as a top choice for businesses seeking an integrated approach to managing their human resources and payroll needs.
What makes Paycor different is its focus on automating routine tasks and mitigating compliance risks, which can significantly improve organizational efficiency. I believe Paycor is best suited for integrated HR and payroll management due to its unified platform that simplifies processes, minimizes errors, and delivers real-time data for informed decision-making.
Paycor Standout Features and Integrations:
Key features include payroll automation that handles calculations, tax filings, and employee access to financial documents; HR software for managing employee records and compliance; and time & attendance tracking for accurate payroll.
Integrations are available with numerous apps through the Paycor Marketplace. Key systems to note include 15Five, HireTech, Lattice, Emburse Certify, Deputy, OnShoft, When I Work, Zillion, Points North, FMLA, Tapcheck, Instant Pay, Sterling, Wageworks, Ignite, and other digital workforce tools.
Lattice is a comprehensive people management platform designed to enhance HR operations. The platform is suitable for businesses of all sizes and industries, focusing on creating a holistic approach to talent management.
Why I picked Lattice: I like that Lattice offers customizable review cycles, which allow HR professionals to tailor performance reviews to meet the specific needs of their organization. This flexibility ensures that performance evaluations are relevant and effective, fostering a culture of continuous improvement.
Additionally, Lattice offers real-time feedback tools that enable employees to receive immediate, constructive feedback, promoting ongoing development and engagement. The software's robust analytics capabilities also provide valuable insights into employee performance and engagement.
Lattice Standout Features and Integrations:
Features include engagement tools, AI tools for a more personalized employee experience, a writing assistant, OKR and goal setting, and compensation management.
Integrations include UKG, Workday, TriNet, Slack, Okta, Salesforce, Outlook, OneLogin, Personio, Jira, BambooHR, Humaans, Gusto, Namely, ADP, and Rippling.
Remofirst is a comprehensive HR platform that offers global employment services and solutions for global payroll, compliance, and managing remote talent.
Why I picked Remofirst: As an HR management software, Remofirst offers an extensive suite of features tailored to enhance HR operations. One of the most significant features is its Employer of Record (EOR) service, which allows businesses to hire and manage employees in various countries without needing to establish local entities. This service handles everything from onboarding to payroll processing, ensuring compliance with local labor laws and tax regulations.
Remofirst Standout Features and Integrations:
Features include a comprehensive suite of additional HR management tools, such as RemoHealth for global benefits management, and visa and work permit services. RemoHealth allows businesses to offer competitive health insurance and other benefits to their international employees, while the visa and work permit services help in securing the necessary documentation for international hires.
These features, combined with the platform's user-friendly interface and 24/7 customer support, make Remofirst an ideal solution for businesses looking to effectively manage their global HR operations.
Integrations include Slack, Microsoft Teams, Google Workspace, BambooHR, Greenhouse, Workable, Lever, Gusto, QuickBooks, Xero, Zapier, HubSpot, Salesforce, Asana, Trello, Jira, PayPal, Stripe, and TransferWise.
Personio’s HR management system offers solutions for workforce management, people data, recruiting, performance management and training, and preliminary payroll.
Why I picked Personio: Their software is well-known for their people workflow automations (PWA) that speed up typical people processes by automating tasks and linking systems together. This includes approval workflows, automated reminders for key tasks, and more.
Personio Standout Features and Integrations:
Their recruiting features include the ability to post vacancies to 600 job boards with just a few clicks, plus tools for candidate sourcing and applicant tracking that also link up with onboarding processes. They also have an Android and iOS mobile app for absence requests, time tracking, and accessing the company directory & employee profiles.
Integrations are available with 130+ popular software applications available through their Personio Marketplace, including candidate sourcing and applicant tracking systems, and performance and employee engagement systems.
Complete HR solution with affordable entry-level price perfect for SMBs
Factorial is a comprehensive HR software solution that empowers organizations with its innovative tools, seamless integration of HR functionalities, and user-friendly interface. From employee onboarding to time tracking, performance management, and beyond, Factorial streamlines and enhances HR processes.
Factorial offers a unique employee benefits management feature that enables businesses to effectively administer and track employee perks and benefits. This includes benefits such as health insurance, retirement plans, wellness programs, and more. The platform allows employees to view and manage their benefits selections, while administrators can easily track usage and eligibility. This specialized feature streamlines the process of managing a diverse range of benefits, promoting employee satisfaction and simplifying benefits administration for HR teams.
Factorial distinguishes itself by prioritizing employee well-being through a dedicated module that allows employees to provide anonymous feedback, report concerns, and suggest improvements. This module provides a secure space for employees to express their opinions without fear of reprisal, fostering an open and transparent communication culture. It also includes sentiment analysis capabilities.
Features include time management (time off, time tracking, shift work), performance management (talent, acquisition, onboarding, performance, goals), payroll (automation, bonuses, e-documents), employee portal, org chart, and company announcements.
Integrations include Sage, Gmail, Payflow, Dynamics 365, LinkedIn, TravelPerk, PowerBI, Indeed, Recruitee, Slack, and other.
Factorial costs from $6.50/employee/month and offers a 14-day free trial. You can also request a free demo and one of their representatives will show you around the software and answer any questions you might have.
Best HR software with an integrated learning management system
Kallidus, formerly Sapling, is a people operations platform that has the capacity to automate workflows, from onboarding and upskilling to performance reviews and employee farewells.
Why I picked Kallidus: The HR software gives you the ability to create automated workflows for talent recruitment and onboarding. You and your team can automatically assign employee workflows based on their employment status, the department they’re assigned to, and their location.
Kallidus Standout Features and Integrations:
HR team members can manage and store employee information and design color-coded organizational charts. End users also have the capability to create their profiles with customizable prompts, which supports the culture that the company is trying to nurture.
Some of Kallidus’s key benefits include better decision-making, streamlined people data changes, robust security, and seamless integration. The best part? You and everyone around you can upskill for free thanks to its forever free learning hub.
Integrations are available with numerous third-party systems including time-tracking tools, payroll software, and applicant-tracking systems. The software also comes with an API and webhooks, and it integrates with more than 40 different platforms, which include G Suite, Xero for accounting, TriNet, and 15Five for employee performance and engagement.
Best HR Management Software: Pricing Comparison Chart
This comparison chart summarizes pricing details for my top HR management software selections to help you find the best software for your budget and business needs.
| Tools | Price | |
|---|---|---|
| Deel | Flat rate user pricing, with a free version for businesses with up to 200 people | Website |
| Workable HR | From $49/month (billed annually) | Website |
| GoCo | From $5/employee/month | Website |
| Rippling | From $8/user/month (billed annually) | Website |
| Paycor | Pricing upon request | Website |
| Lattice | From $11/seat/month | Website |
| Remofirst | From $25/user/month | Website |
| Personio | Pricing upon request | Website |
| Factorial | From $4.50/user/month | Website |
| Kallidus Sapling | Pricing upon request | Website |
Compare Software Specs Side by Side
Use our comparison chart to review and evaluate software specs side-by-side.
Compare SoftwareOther HR Management Software
Below is a list of additional HR management software that didn’t make it into my top 10 list, but are still worth checking out:
- Namely
For performance management, employee recognition and engagement
- SAP SuccessFactors
Enterprise-level HR management software suite focused on human experience management.
- bob
Modern human resources software with extensive tools for deepening company culture and employee engagement
- IntelliHR
For advanced analytics and time-saving compliance management features
- Vault ERP
Scalable HR management software with add-ons for budgeting, operations, asset management, client management, and more
- UKG Pro
Advanced HCM software with talent management tools and AI-backed employee feedback sentiment analysis
- monday.com
Build flexible & customized HR workflows with detailed task management + automations
- BambooHR
User-friendly HR solution for small and medium businesses with excellent employee self-service and mobile access abilities
- Sage HR
Adaptable HRMS software with unlimited applicant pipelines and an expense management app
- Cezanne HR
Broad HR system with advanced performance management features, well-suited for multinational organizations
Related HR Software Reviews
If you still haven't found what you're looking for here, check out these other related tools that we've tested and evaluated:
- HR Software
- Payroll Software
- Recruiting Software
- Employer of Record Services
- Applicant Tracking Systems
- Workforce Management Software
Selection Criteria for HR Management Software
Strategic workforce management should ensure that HR software is chosen to meet both current and future workforce needs. Here’s a summary of my evaluation criteria for what I look for when selecting the best HR management systems for this list:
- User Interface (UI): I look for systems with clean, colourful, and visually appealing user interfaces that will ensure a positive experience when staff at all levels use the software.
- Usability: I chose systems that are simple and straightforward to use, which don’t require extensive training to be able to complete tasks independently.
- Integrations: I always keep an eye out for systems with lots of software integrations as they will have a big impact on improving the overall productivity level of your HR team. The more integrations, the better!
- Value for Price: While I always prefer HR software with transparent pricing models, sometimes those details are only available upon request due to the modular nature of many systems (i.e., you’ll only pay for the modules you actually want).
Features of HR Management Software
Every apple is different, and the same is true for HR management software too. Yet, no matter which way you slice them, they have some common features too.
Here’s a short summary of the main features you can expect to find within the best HR software solutions:
- A central employee database: HR management systems act as a single source of employee-related information that link data from rich employee profiles across all modules automatically.
- Time off & attendance tracking: Tools for tracking your employee’s work hours, as well as their vacation dates and other absence requests.
- Linked benefits administration: A process for linking employee benefit options and costs directly with your core employee and payroll data to cut down on manual or double data entry.
- Payroll functions: Integrated payroll capability that automatically pulls data from other key modules, like time tracking and benefits administration modules.
- Performance management tools: System-wide features that support continuous performance-based feedback, including check-ins, 360-degree feedback and goal setting features.
- Learning & development features: A built-in system for hosting internal training modules for your staff, to help them grow and develop their skills over time.
- Training & compliance tracking: A way to ensure your staff are always up-to-speed on any job-specific training or certifications, including automated tools that track expiry dates.
- Recruiting & onboarding tools: A suite of tools that help HR teams post jobs, track and screen candidates, and turn applicants into new employees with links to onboarding processes.
- Employee Self-Service: The ability for employees to update their own personal information independently without relying heavily on HR staff, often achieved through robust mobile apps.
- Reports and analytics: The best HR software should have metrics and analytics baked right into the system, so you don’t have to reinvent the wheel to dig deeper into your workforce metrics.
Before we delve into the specifics of each HR management software, you may find it beneficial to read our complete guide on HR software, which provides a holistic view of what to consider.
Are There Different Types of HR Management Software?
Yes, you bet there are! There are lists of HR software types to choose from. The most common types of HR software include:
- HRIS = human resource information system
- HCM = human capital management [system]
- HRMS = human resource management system
You may be wondering, what’s the difference between these systems? Basically, they are synonyms for different levels of HR software that help to streamline common HR tasks. Not surprisingly, as you go higher up in price, you’ll gain more comprehensive features.
Typically, an HRIS will cover the core HR functions at the lowest cost, making it a great choice for a small business or startup operation. Another thing to consider when purchasing software is how scalable it is. Many tool providers offer the ability to add more modules over time, which is a budget-friendly way to hold off on paying for fancier features until you actually need them.
HCM software is also a very popular choice, as it often incorporates payroll along with core HR features. Having payroll data within your HR management system is a big time saver for HR professionals, and I say this based on personal experience. It’s no surprise then, that the HCM software market is big and getting bigger, with an expected value of $33 billion anticipated by 2024!
Other Resources
I hope this summary of the top-ranking HR management systems helped you get one step closer to finding the software solution you’ve been searching for.
Since HR management systems cover a lot of ground, you may also want to consider some more niche software systems, if you’re only looking to upgrade one element of your HR process.
Here are some other suggestions for HR management software with a more specific focus:
- Performance Management Software for Continuous Feedback
- Learning Management Systems for Small Businesses
- Safety Management Software to Keep Your Staff Safe and Sound
- Hot Desk Booking Software for Managing Hybrid Work Arrangements
- Intranet Software Solutions to Connect Teams
- HR Case Management Software to Manage Issues & Risks
You may also want to pop over to our Crozdesk website, where you can dive deeper into 300+ software categories and compare your top choices side-by-side.
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