The 8 Best Modern HRIS Systems For Small Businesses

Oftentimes HR teams ask the question: “What’s the best HR software for small businesses?” or "Which system is best Namely vs Zenefits?" However, these question are missing an important caveat, because there is no perfect software.

We wish there was something that did everything, cost the least, had the best support and cooked you breakfast in the morning. But, unfortunately, it doesn’t exist. Not yet, at least.

Instead, there is only the best HR software for you. Finding the right technology requires taking into account your goals, the organizations trajectory and the appetite for change.

Once you know what you need, the next step is to find a system that matches your profile.

Below are 8 of the best HRIS for small businesses, and who they can be a great fit for:

BambooHR

For those who want to make life easy

It would be fair to assume that BambooHR’s goal was to build a product that was so simple, HR would never have to answer “Help” requests ever again. Bamboo doesn’t do payroll or benefits admin, they leave that to the experts. But everything else an employee could need is managed in one place. Inside the simple-to-navigate, easy-to-deploy platform, employees can access recruiting, onboarding, performance, time-off and more.

Rippling

For those who want to zoom into the 21st century

Rippling was founded by the former CEO of Zenefits. They offer arguably the most tech-forward platform to ever hit HR technology. Some people dream about paperless onboarding; with Rippling, onboarding isn’t just digital, with one click an HR manager can also order computers and have them pre-loaded with all employee apps, fully provisioned. Rippling is a marriage between IT and HR for the most tech-forward companies. Rippling's architecture unifies employee data, employee self-service and employee benefits in a way few can match.

Gusto

For those who don’t want to start their company off with ADP

Decisions made in the early years of a company’s life cycle can have long-lasting effects. When it comes to selecting the first payroll system, companies can often default to the 10,000 lb gorilla in the room (ADP). It’s familiar, it’s safe. But it sure isn’t always pretty. Gusto offers a modern payroll alternative to early stage companies. With an integrated HRIS, Ben Admin and back office support, they can supercharge an HR department of one. Gusto offers various HR software packages for small businesses

HiBob

For those who think culture is most important

Every HR professional dreams of spending less time on the transactional elements of compliance and more time on the transformational aspects of employee development. It’s not a surprise that a product was built with this vision in mind. When some people think of foundational HR tools, they think of employee files and org charts. When Bob thinks of performance management, surveys, employee engagement and more. If you want culture at the center of your company from Day One, Bob is a great option.

Zenefits

For those who want a one-stop-shop for employees

Let’s face it. It’s hard enough to get employees to login to one system, let alone an entire suite of standalone HR tools. For those who are want to give their employees one hub for all their employment needs, Zenefits is a modern leader. Everything from payroll, to benefits, to time tracking and performance can be included. The only thing missing is an ATS, and Zenefits partners with some of the best options out there.

Flock

For those who want to play nice with others

When it comes to buying new tools, HR doesn’t always have the first pick. Maybe the finance team came in and chose ADP or Paylocity for payroll. Then the recruiting team got Greenhouse approved for their hiring needs. Now it’s your turn and you want something great too.

Flock gives HR teams a robust, easy-to-use and easy-to-report HRIS system at a great value. And since Flock seamless integrates with leading payroll and ATS’s, your new choice can play nicely with the other team's systems too.

Namely

For those who are ready for the next step

When it comes to HR software, there is an entire forgotten class of companies in the mid-enterprise space. These companies between 350 and 1500 employees are too big and complex for some of the fledgling solutions on the market, but not quite ready to invest in a big, global behemoth.

Namely can help these companies through the next stage in their lifecycle, as they transition from start-up to growing leaders. Namely provides all things HCM (payroll, HRIS, benefits, performance, time and more) in a sleek, modern interface.

Justworks

For those who don’t have enough time in the day

The PEO model has taken some black eyes over the years. There have been a few established legacy providers who have owned the market and refused to invest in new technology and better support.

Enter, Justworks who upended the PEO market with a modern platform, a transparent pricing model and proactive support team. If there’s never enough time to handle HR tasks, then Justworks can be a lifesaver.

FAQs

What is an HRIS (Human Resources Information System), and why is it important for small businesses?

An HRIS is a software solution used to streamline human resources processes, such as employee data management, payroll, benefits administration, time and attendance tracking, and performance management. It's important for small businesses to efficiently manage their HR tasks and ensure compliance with regulations.

What are the key features and capabilities of a modern HRIS system?

Key features include employee data management, onboarding and offboarding, time and attendance tracking, payroll processing, benefits administration, performance management, employee self-service, reporting and analytics, and compliance management.

Why are standalone HRIS systems recommended over all-in-one solutions for certain businesses?

Standalone HRIS systems are recommended when businesses prioritize specialized features and functionality tailored specifically for human resources processes. All-in-one solutions may lack depth and customization options required for effective HR management.

What are some benefits of using a modern HRIS system for small businesses?

Benefits include increased efficiency and accuracy in HR processes, improved employee experience, better compliance with regulations, centralized employee data management, access to advanced features and integrations, and scalability to accommodate business growth.

How do the top modern HRIS systems differ from each other?

The top modern HRIS systems differ in their focus areas, user interfaces, feature sets, pricing models, integrations, and target market segments. Some may prioritize simplicity and ease of use, while others focus on advanced functionality and customization options