If you have started looking for a way to take the manual work out of HR, you will have come across the term HRIS. This guide explains what an HRIS is, what the letters stand for and what a typical system actually does.

What does HRIS stand for?

HRIS stands for Human Resources Information System. Some people read the S as standing for software, and you will also see it written as HRIS system, HRIS software, or HRMS (Human Resources Management System). The most common form is simply HRIS. Since there is no universal agreement on the S, adding the word system or software is not wrong.

What an HRIS does

An HRIS is software that helps HR teams manage people processes electronically. Teams use it to run workflows, improve efficiency, and store and retrieve employee information. Most packages can be configured to fit the needs of the employer. The main components are:

Database

The system stores employee records such as payment history, emergency contact details and performance notes. Records can be accessed from anywhere at any time, which also makes the database a secure backup for paper files.

Time and work management

Employees can log their own working hours, and managers can review holiday requests immediately. Approved data flows straight through to payroll. Time management also makes it easier to monitor attendance and punctuality.

Payroll functionality

Many HRIS platforms include payroll, using time tracking to calculate pay and tax accurately. Errors drop, and tax compliance improves for organisations operating across multiple locations.

Benefits

Some systems let employers set up and manage medical benefits and pension contributions inside the platform. Others handle the deductions and reporting while the benefits themselves are arranged elsewhere. Check which of the two a package does before you buy.

Employee interface

A good HRIS improves how employees experience HR, from a smooth onboarding process to an app for finding colleagues’ contact details or requesting holiday in seconds.

Recruitment and retention

Recruitment and retention sit at the centre of most HR policies. An HRIS supports the search for new talent, onboarding, engagement, training records, and fair compensation and benefits.

Where to go next

If you are weighing up whether an HRIS is right for your organisation, our HRIS selection page explains how we approach the decision, or you can talk through the pressure points with us directly.