Software as a Service (SaaS) and cloud computing are not only transforming the way HR technology functions, they're also elevating HR performance and success in the organization.
Here are five key processes and tasks being enhanced by cloud computing in human resources:
Recruiting technology
SuccessFactors, an SAP company, serves as recruiting technology which also aids in retaining ideal candidates. A recruitment management module and a recruitment marketing module create efficiencies in attracting top talent.
The recruiting technology gives organizations oversight during the hiring process via the management module. “Once a candidate applies, recruiters can review their application and update statuses, ultimately providing them with all the information they need to decide if they’re a good fit for the position,” explains Stacey Rogala, manager of HR systems at Insight. This information is housed in a central database that includes search functionality, allowing HR professionals to look at candidates who applied in the past to see if they’re a better fit for new positions.
The recruitment marketing module enables organizations to disseminate job postings across a variety of job boards and offers eye-opening analytics.
Onboarding technology
The first few days of an employee’s tenure at your company are critical, and cloud computing in HR can help you set a new hire up for success. Rogala says the SuccessFactors tool also creates a smooth onboarding process. “Before we were shuffling papers around — now all of our training documentation is centralized.”
A range of cloud-based technology solutions are available to provide IT and HR departments with secure identity management in the cloud, on a mobile device or on-premises with a single sign-on. This serves as a Human Resources Information System (HRIS), but with the additional security benefits to the IT department as well.
HR administration
From payroll to planning, cloud-based HRIS systems help streamline administrative processes, as cloud data are integrated and accessible from anywhere. “At Insight, SuccessFactors’ Employee Central allows us to create a workflow for centralized approvals related to new hires, job changes, terminations and promotions,” Rogala says. Helping them effectively guide their colleagues, managers can also see a full view of their team using this HR technology.
When dealing with confidential employee information, HR professionals can rest assured that cloud data will be safe. “In most cases, it’s more secure than it is in an on-premise data center,” points out Josh Jones, senior network security architect at Insight. Cloud platforms are designed to be secure, often leveraging an integrated approach to security and risk management.
Employee and HR performance
Cloud-based HRIS systems helps retain and reward employees, ultimately creating efficiencies in how organizations develop, assess and align performance with compensation. “Data — such as rankings — related to performance is integrated with compensation data within our system, allowing managers to make informed decisions about how they can reward performance.”
Professional development
“Complete with training materials and ongoing educational resources, employees get a module that’s tailored to their role,” says Rogala. Using the cloud, professional development activities can be tracked.
By offering flexibility, security and value, cloud-based professional development tools can help businesses attract desirable applicants, increase employee productivity, simplify HR processes, reward improved performance and arm employees with the tools to grow.
Looking forward, leveraging cloud computing in human resources — and across your business — will empower you to respond to the needs of your workforce more quickly, securely and cost-effectively.