Human Resources Kit For Dummies
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An employee management system, often called a human resources information system (HRIS), is the traditional foundation of a company’s HR technology. It serves as a central repository of employee data. Most HRISs include employee profile systems and time management systems as part of their packages.

Employee profile systems

Employee profiles begin to take shape when job seekers submit online candidate profiles and are built from there by employee profile systems. Profiles include information on education, previous experience, professional training, and other skills. A manager can use data provided by the profiles in planning training for team members.

The list of an employee’s current skills within the profile is also very useful when you’re evaluating internal candidates for promotions or other opportunities. Managers from other departments also typically have access to all employee profile information, allowing for talent management across the organization.

As records retention becomes more and more important in cases of legal action, keep in mind that any report generated by HR technology systems can be subject to legal review. If you’re unable to produce them, your company can be in jeopardy. The bottom line: Establish appropriate record and information retention policies so that you have access to employee records when your organization needs them.

Time management systems

Although time management applications can be part of a larger software suite, technology packages specific to time management are an option. These systems not only track hours and attendance but also allow you to manage employee scheduling and produce invoices and other materials based in part on time allocated to a job or project.

Some programs also let you identify and analyze labor costs according to employee, branch, department, and specific project. That can prove very helpful if, for instance, your business is considering redistributing workloads and responsibilities.

Advanced systems can automatically record employee hours when they log in to their accounts. In particular, time and attendance functions allow businesses to track and monitor employee work time from a remote location. This can prove especially effective for telecommuters, home-based workers, and remote sales and support staff.

About This Article

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Max Messmer is chairman and CEO of Robert Half International, the world's largest specialized staffing firm. He is one of the leading experts on human resources and employment issues.

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