3 Tips for Selecting a Future-Proof HRMS Solution

Selecting an HRMS can be a big commitment; with any luck it will become a positive relationship with a solid product, along with a good partnership with your vendor. When you’re at the HRMS selection stage, what do you need to keep in mind to choose a system which will stand the test of time? Keep the long term and these aspects in mind as you begin your HRMS selection process.

Prioritize Vendor Compatibility

All productive relationships require a personality match, and choosing an HRMS vendor is no different. Are you a solid Fortune 50 company or young start-up? Finding someone whose goals and culture can reflect and enhance your own is key. As well, it’s necessary to understand where your vendor is heading. If your intention is to utilize the cloud, is your vendor’s strategy going to support that? Does the vendor’s availability meet your support needs? A shared vision will help to ensure that your HRMS will be around to meet your requirements as you grow together in your relationship.

Select an HRMS That Reflects Your Future Needs

HRMS solutions are continually evolving as vendors react to market needs. It’s helpful to consider where you’d like to be in three to five years, as you consider your HRMS options. Are you expecting to expand your performance review processes in six months? Are employee referrals part of your two-year plan for candidate sourcing? Even though you may not implement these functions this year, consider your future state and which vendor or product is able to support you best. While a vendor may have ideas for how you will use their system, be sure to focus on expected needs as well as current business requirements as you put together your short list.

Consider Support and Maintenance

Every HRMS will require some type of back office support, from daily operational issues to regular updates and fixes. As you are selecting HRMS, be sure to carefully consider future operations. If you’re expecting to acquire populations rapidly, is there a mechanism for data loads which is easy to use? Does the vendor provide regular updates and fixes for new legislative requirements? Do you have enough back office staffing for expected operations or is the product a drain on resources to support?

While no one has a crystal ball to predict the future, selecting HRMS with these tips in mind will ensure you have a system with longevity and potential.