Finding the right tools to manage HR tasks efficiently is crucial for small businesses looking to scale. Human resource information systems (HRIS) empower HR teams to automate and streamline essential HR functions, save time on admin work, and focus on strategic initiatives that drive growth. With the right HRIS, you can enhance productivity, improve team satisfaction, and support business expansion.
This article will review different HRIS platforms that work well for small businesses, highlighting their pros and cons, and help you select a tool that supports your growth and scales with your team.
Disclaimer: The opinions expressed here are solely those of the author and do not necessarily reflect the views of the company. Prospective users are encouraged to conduct their own research to make the best decision for their organization.
What is an HRIS system for small businesses?
An HRIS system for small businesses is specialized software that streamlines and automates HR tasks including maintaining team member records, tracking time and attendance, managing benefits, and overseeing performance reviews. The terms “HRS” or “HR system” also typically refer to the same functionalities as an HRIS.
(Note that “system” is inherent in the acronym “HRIS,” making the phrase “HRIS system” somewhat redundant.)
Small businesses, particularly in their growth stage, may not need extensive features initially, but they can still benefit from an HRIS that can grow with their business.
How can an HRIS help small businesses?
For small businesses with limited headcount, an HRIS frees up valuable time, allowing HR teams to focus on strategic priorities like talent management and employee engagement initiatives. This can lead to a more efficient and motivated workforce, directly contributing to the business’s growth and success.
Best HRIS systems for small businesses
Let’s take a look at some of the best HRIS for small businesses.
Disclaimer: The opinions expressed here are solely those of the author and do not necessarily reflect the views of the company. Prospective users are encouraged to conduct their own research to make the best decision for their organization.
HiBob
HiBob offers an all-in-one HRIS, Bob, that provides out-of-the-box onboarding, time and attendance tracking, performance management, and compensation management. Bob’s flexibility and scalability make it an ideal choice for organizations aiming to maintain a strong culture while growing rapidly.
Bob allows users to build custom solutions that accommodate business growth and increasing headcount. The platform’s intuitive user interface and easy integrations accelerate adoption and a quick return on investment.
Key features:
- Core HR: Streamline core HR processes and build an inclusive work culture
- Onboarding: Leverage onboarding workflows to automate onboarding processes and give people a warm welcome
- Performance management: Use a centralized platform that supports 360-degree performance management to empower your people to grow and succeed
- Time and attendance: Simplify time and attendance tracking, enabling your people to clock in and out easily
- Payroll hub: Take the pain out of processing payroll with a centralized dashboard for managing payroll and syncing payroll-related data
- People analytics: Uncover hidden insights about your people and track KPIs like headcount, absenteeism, and more
- Workforce planning: Maximize workforce efficiency and productivity by mapping, tracking, and planning current and future positions
(The article includes platform features that reflect the information available as of the publication date.)
Pros:
- Offers flexibility for building and designing workflows
- Improves workforce data access and integrity
- Quick response time and support from the HiBob team
- Significantly reduces HR teams’ workloads
Cons:
- Custom integrations may require technical assistance
(Pros and cons are compiled from reviews found on G2)
Pricing (as of publication date): HiBob pricing plans are crafted personally for HR leaders to match their needs. The flexible options let you get precisely what your HR team requires, from implementation to integrations.
ADP
ADP provides an online HRIS and payroll solution that supports benefits administration, compliance, and tax withholding management. For small businesses, ADP offers functionality such as payroll, professional employer organization (PEO) services, time and attendance tracking, and business tax credits. The platform integrates with Xero, Sage, Workday, and more.
Key features:
- Benefits administration management
- Time and attendance tracking
- PEO and HR outsourcing platform
- Talent management and optimization capabilities
(The article includes platform features that reflect the information available as of the publication date.)
Pros:
- Supports role-based user access
- Provides an implementation team to guide users through integration
- Assigns a dedicated relationship manager to users
Cons:
- “Service tickets often take a considerable time to resolve and typically lack details about the issue being addressed when you are notified of a resolution.” (source)
- “I wish that it could provide a greater ability to create automatic notifications.” (source)
- “The only negative that I have is that some of the setup for processes seems labor intensive and not as intuitive as I would like.” (source)
(Pros and cons are compiled from reviews found on G2)
Pricing: ADP does not display pricing on its website but offers customized pricing based on business needs and company information.
BambooHR
BambooHR is an all-in-one platform that offers HRIS functionality for managing tasks like hiring and onboarding, payroll, and benefits administration. BambooHR also provides businesses with a database to maintain team member records and generate reports. It integrates with other business solutions including Slack, NetSuite, TalentLMS, and Okta.
Key features:
- Performance management capabilities
- HR data analytics and reporting
- Applicant tracking system
- Employee database and reporting
(The article includes platform features that reflect the information available as of the publication date.)
Pros:
- Integrates with popular business software
- Collects and tracks signatures electronically
- Provides a single hub for centralizing team members’ records and data
Cons:
- “There can be a delay sometimes when you are trying to send documents to employees to sign or receive them back.” (source)
- “The setup process for signature documents and some of the text fields within the job posting feature could be more intuitive.” (source)
- “Sometimes customer service doesn’t know the answer right away, so you will have to wait while they brush up on the software.” (source)
(Pros and cons are compiled from reviews found on G2)
Pricing: BambooHR does not list pricing on its website but provides multiple pricing plan options, add-ons, and monthly payment choices.
Deel
Deel is a global HR platform with solutions for team onboarding, payroll, performance management, reporting, and more. The platform customizes HRIS processes to comply with the laws specific to each team member’s location. Deel integrates with other HR solutions like Bob and business tools like QuickBooks, Xero, and NetSuite.
Key features:
- Automated invoicing capabilities
- Payroll management and benefits administration
- Time off and expense management
(The article includes platform features that reflect the information available as of the publication date.)
Pros:
- Allows users to bulk pay employer of record (EORs) services, direct employees, and contractors at once
- Offers up to 15 global payment options
- Automates contractor invoicing
Cons:
- “One downside with Deel is that there can sometimes be delays in response from customer support, especially during high-traffic periods.” (source)
- “The mobile app sometimes takes time to load, but I believe optimization updates will come along the way.” (source)
- One common criticism of Deel is that its pricing structure can be complex and might not always be transparent. (source)
(Pros and cons are compiled from reviews found on G2)
Pricing:
- Deel HR: Free
- Global payroll: $29/user/month
- Contractors: $49/user/month
(Pricing plans are based on the Deel website and are subject to change.)
Greenhouse
Greenhouse provides an applicant tracking system (ATS) and hiring solution that helps businesses manage their hiring process, from sourcing applicants to onboarding new team members. The platform suits early-stage businesses and scaling companies looking to establish strong hiring practices.
Key features:
- Talent sourcing platform for hiring
- Automated employee onboarding management
- Customizable reporting and insights tool
- Advanced data configuration workflows
(The article includes platform features that reflect the information available as of the publication date.)
Pros:
- Enables users to find documentation easily
- Supportive customer success team
- Standardized interview processes
Cons:
- “It can be a little complex at times and could be hard to find the information you need.” (source)
- “The biggest drawback is the reporting capability of the tool.” (source)
- “Doesn’t have a good integration with BambooHR.” (source)
(Pros and cons are compiled from reviews found on G2)
Pricing: Greenhouse does not display pricing on its website but offers three pricing tiers—Essential, Advanced, and Expert.
Gusto
Gusto is a payroll, HR, and benefits solution for small and medium-sized businesses. It provides HRIS functionality that enables users to automatically file taxes, ensure compliance, and identify tax credits. Users can sync team hours, paid time off (PTO), and holidays with payroll. Gusto integrates with various tools, including accounting, collaboration, point of sales, and expense management solutions.
Key features:
- Time and attendance tracking tools
- Hiring and onboarding management
- Automated deductions, direct deposits, tax filings
- Health benefits, automatic savings, 401(k)s
(The article includes platform features that reflect the information available as of the publication date.)
Pros:
- Provides efficient communication with the chat feature
- User-friendly interface
- Sends helpful task reminders to users
Cons:
- “The timesheets are simultaneously busy and also don’t show as much information as I’m used to.” (source)
- “For a small business, it didn’t seem like there were good & affordable integrated health care benefit options for my employees.” (source)
- “The downside with Gusto is that their payroll invoices can’t be paid in advance.” (source)
(Pros and cons are compiled from reviews found on G2)
Pricing:
- Simple: $40/month plus $6/user/month
- Plus: $60/month plus $9/user/month
- Premium: $135/month plus $16.50/user/month
(Pricing plans are based on the Gusto website and are subject to change.)
Justworks
Justworks provides access to HR, payroll, benefits, and compliance management on a single platform. It also supports global EOR services so businesses can hire internationally without the hassle of setting up local entities.
Key features:
- International contractor payments
- Benefits and health insurance management
- Compliance and risk management
- People analytics tool
(The article includes platform features that reflect the information available as of the publication date.)
Pros:
- Intuitive interface
- Offers a wide range of HR tools within their platform
- Onboarding with the platform is quick and easy
Cons:
- “The only downfall that I have with Justworks is their full-time hours cannot be adjusted to accommodate our 7.5-hour full-time work day.” (source)
- “Compared to some other PEOs (ex: Rippling), there could be more features built into it (performance management), etc.” (source)
- “Justworks is bare bones when it comes to functionality and process. It’s extremely limiting and creates more work for small department heads.” (source)
(Pros and cons are compiled from reviews found on G2)
Pricing:
- Payroll: $8/user/month
- PEO basic: $59/user/month
- PEO plus: $109/user/month
(Pricing plans are based on the Justworks website and are subject to change.)
Oyster HR
Oyster HR helps HR teams onboard, pay, and manage full-time teams or contractors across multiple countries. Users can create compliant employment agreements and set up payroll and benefits for international talent without establishing a local entity.
Key features:
- Global payroll management
- API for custom integrations
- Global compliance and protection
- Employer of record platform
(The article includes platform features that reflect the information available as of the publication date.)
Pros:
- Provides a nonprofit discount
- Responsive and helpful customer support
- Offers a calculator feature useful in determining whether to hire a person or not
Cons:
- “It seems like Oyster is built on the basis that you only hire employees through Oyster and that most customers would use it this way.” (source)
- “Sometimes their local partners are a little slow in responding when there’s problems with contracts.” (source)
- “Their customer service is not good. You do not have a dedicated rep so you will get someone new each time.” (source)
(Pros and cons are compiled from reviews found on G2)
Pricing:
- Contractor: $29/contractor/month
- Global payroll: $25/team member/month
- Employer of record: $699/month
- Scale: Custom pricing
(Pricing plans are based on the Oyster HR website and are subject to change.)
Papaya Global
Papaya Global offers an AI-powered global payroll and payments platform that helps businesses automate repetitive manual payroll processes. It supports HRIS processes like human resource management, hiring, people analytics, etc, and gives users visibility around their workforce costs through payroll data management and actionable insights.
Key features:
- Employer of record
- Global compliance management
- Benefits management
- AI-powered workforce analytics
(The article includes platform features that reflect the information available as of the publication date.)
Pros:
- Offers services in multiple countries
- Payroll experts resolve issues quickly
- Supports global workforce management
Cons:
- “Depending on the size of the company and the level of service required, Papaya Global can be costly, which might be a consideration for smaller businesses.” (source)
- “Lack of timely response and customer support.” (source)
- “The invoices are not always as detailed as we’d like to, and the PTO import system on the platform is not Papaya’s best feature yet.” (source)
(Pros and cons are compiled from reviews found on G2)
Pricing: Papaya doesn’t list pricing on its website, but online sources indicate that Papaya offers four pricing plans, starting at $15 per user per month.
Paycor
Paycor offers HR and payroll software that includes support for workforce management, talent management, benefits administration, and other HRIS capabilities. The analytics dashboard delivers actionable insights so users can make data-driven decisions.
Key features:
- Recruiting and hiring management
- Benefit and compliance management
- Time, attendance, and scheduling software
- Automated talent sourcing
(The article includes platform features that reflect the information available as of the publication date.)
Pros:
- It’s easy to create reports
- Lets users set recurring bonuses and other payments
- Integrates with 401(k) providers and benefit carriers
Cons:
- “The implementation process was a little cumbersome and I didn’t really get to speak with my implementation specialist.” (source)
- “The system tends to bug out for no reason or revert back to old rules for policies in place. For example, I lost my HR Administrator access for no reason.” (source)
- “The Applicant Tracking System (ATS) is lacking, and we wish it included more AI features, better integration with third-party sites, and built-in sourcing tools to attract candidates.” (source)
(Pros and cons are compiled from reviews found on G2)
Pricing: Paycor doesn’t provide pricing details on its website.
Rippling
Rippling combines HR, Finance, and IT on a single workforce management platform. Its HRIS module helps HR teams automate manual tasks, reduce compliance errors, and offer self-service opportunities. Users can also manage day to day operations like recruiting, learning management, and performance management.
Key features:
- Time off request approval
- Employee attrition reporting
- Employee lifecycle automation
- Role-based permissions and access
(The article includes platform features that reflect the information available as of the publication date.)
Pros:
- Provides a user-friendly platform
- Supports device and identity management
Cons:
- “The advanced workflow functionality can seem a bit complex at times.” (source)
- “I sometimes find it frustrating to make schedule change requests or ask for time off.” (source)
- “One potential drawback of using Rippling is that its robust feature set can make the platform feel overwhelming, especially for new users.” (source)
(Pros and cons are compiled from reviews found on G2)
Pricing: Rippling does not list pricing on its website, but online sources report that pricing starts at $35 per month.
Talent HR
Talent HR is an all-in-one HR tool that allows businesses to manage time-off tracking, hiring and onboarding, team member performance, and people analytics. The platform enables managers to create custom time-off requests and track team member attendance.
Key features:
- Asset/IT equipment tracking and management
- Employee performance management
- Anonymous whistleblowing platform
- Automated PTO and time off tracking
(The article includes platform features that reflect the information available as of the publication date.)
Pros:
- Simple set up and implementation
- Competitive pricing
- Helpful support teams
Cons:
- “There is a slight worry that if our team grows significantly that TalentHR will no longer be able to meet our needs.” (source)
- “Migrating our data was not very easy but I know they’re working on it.” (source)
- “It seems that it hasn’t been fully shaped yet. I would love to see more features related to the employee onboarding process.” (source)
(Pros and cons are compiled from reviews found on Capterra)
Pricing:
- Free: $0
- Essential: $2/user/month
- Premium: $4/user/month
(Pricing plans are based on the Talent HR website and are subject to change.)
TriNet
TriNet is an HR platform with HRIS capabilities including payroll processing, performance management, time tracking, and workforce data management. It also includes a tax credit services tool for simplifying the tax credit process.
Key features:
- People analytics and reporting
- Recruiting and onboarding management
- Compliance management
- Benefits management
(The article includes platform features that reflect the information available as of the publication date.)
Pros:
- Dedicated customer support team
- Options for medical, dental, vision, and supplemental insurance plans
- Automates manual HRIS tasks
Cons:
- “The inability to link multiple companies within the platform is a major drawback, as it complicates time-off approvals and increases costs due to extra charges for non-payroll users.” (source)
- “I have found that it has become more difficult to navigate issues as Trinet has grown and apparently outsourced more and more to different internal teams across the world.” (source)
- “The integration with accounting software, particularly if you are running Quickbooks desktop, can be a little rough.” (source)
(Pros and cons are compiled from reviews found on G2)
Pricing: TriNet offers comprehensive pricing packages for its modules.
UKG Ready
UKG offers an all-in-one HR and payroll software designed for managing lean teams. The platform supports core HRIS functions and centralizes team member information in a secure database. It also simplifies benefits administration and includes a flexible payroll engine that accommodates various pay scenarios.
Key features:
- Time and attendance management
- Compliance checklists and guides
- Self-service scheduling tool
- People analytics and reporting tool
(The article includes platform features that reflect the information available as of the publication date.)
Pros:
- Provides a user friendly layout
- Users can clock in and out from a desktop, and mobile phone
- Navigation is super easy and quick
Cons:
- “Support has not lived up to the hype from demos and fell short after the amazing implementation team.” (source)
- “While I have learned to move through the system quicker over time, I think there is still room for improvement in terms of navigation.” (source)
- “I wish the screens were customizable. I’d like to be able to display select information on one screen.” (source)
(Pros and cons are compiled from reviews found on G2)
Pricing: UKG does not provide pricing information on its website, and online sources do not offer details on pricing.
Workable
Workable’s HRIS platform helps small businesses to find, hire, onboard, and manage their people. Users can fill their job pipeline by posting jobs to multiple sites in one click, and use AI-powered sourcing to sift through applications. Hiring teams can also collaborate on a single platform to evaluate applicants and make decisions. Workable lets businesses create custom workflows to onboard new joiners and manage team members’ requests.
Key features:
- Email and calendar syncing
- AI-powered one-click applicant sourcing
- Templatized offer letters, approval workflows, and e-signatures
- Internal job platform
(The article includes platform features that reflect the information available as of the publication date.)
Pros:
- Intuitive user interface
- Provides resume parsing capabilities that automatically extract key information from resumes
- Allows users to manage multiple jobs on one dashboard
Cons:
- “It could have a better integration with more websites.” (source)
- “Although there is a mobile app, it might lack some of the features available on the desktop version, leading to a less comprehensive user experience on mobile devices.” (source)
- “Layout when looking at certain screens is not great.” (source)
(Pros and cons are compiled from reviews found on G2)
Pricing: Workable does not list pricing on its website, but online sources indicate that it offers a free plan and paid plans starting from $149 per month.
Workday
Workday operates as an enterprise management cloud, combining HRIS and finance tasks into one AI-powered platform. HR teams can manage their people and processes in one place, streamline payroll and time management, and deliver personalized experiences. Workday also integrates with other finance and HR software.
Key features:
- Compensation and benefits tool
- Human capital management platform
- Global workforce planning and management
- Real time reporting and analytics
(The article includes platform features that reflect the information available as of the publication date.)
Pros:
- Integrates various financial processes into one platform
- Provides comprehensive HR functionalities
- Offers various integrations with third party apps
Cons:
- “One thing I dislike about Workday Financial Management is the complexity of its initial setup and configuration.” (source)
- “Reporting tool is not flexible and there’s no compiler to test the queries attached to HCM.” (source)
- “Customizing Workday HCM to fit specific organizational needs can be complex and may require technical expertise.” (source)
(Pros and cons are compiled from reviews found on G2)
Pricing: Workday does not provide pricing information on its website, and online sources do not offer details on pricing.
Zoho People
Zoho People provides a cloud-based HR solution that helps businesses manage their HRIS operations, build a productive workforce, and retain talent. It offers an employee database that scales, employee case management, analytics, and smart HR workflows. Zoho People also includes a free mobile app for Android and iOS.
Key features:
- Employee management and onboarding
- Time and attendance tracker
- Scalable employee database platform
- Time to timesheets converter
- Corporate learning and development system
(The article includes platform features that reflect the information available as of the publication date.)
Pros:
- Makes it easy to track company development and annual leave
- Integrates with other software
- Users can regularize attendance from a PC or mobile app
Cons:
- “On occasions, I find some of the interfaces overlap and/or there are too many drop downs.” (source)
- “The regularization option should automatically show the days where the working hours have gone beyond 9 Hours.” (source)
- “UI needs to be improved. Seems like it hasn’t been updated for a long time.” (source)
(Pros and cons are compiled from reviews found on G2)
Pricing:
- Essential HR: $1.50/user/month
- Professional: $2.50/user/month
- Premium: $3.50/user/month
- Enterprise: $5/user/month
- People plus: $10/user/month
(Pricing plans are based on the Zoho People website and are subject to change.)
HRIS benefits for your team
Reduce stress, simplify workflows, and give your people the tools they need to work efficiently with the right HRIS. You can use an HRIS for:
Accessible self-service opportunities
An HRIS can provide a self-service portal so team members can view their payslips, time records, and performance reviews or update their profile details, such as phone numbers, addresses, and dependents—all without depending on the HR team.
These self-service opportunities empower your people to take control of their personal information and streamline admin tasks for everyone.
Defined career pathways
Small businesses can use an HRIS to build clear and structured career paths for their team members. These systems help identify, develop, and retain talent with career development and succession planning tools that analyze performance, pinpoint skill gaps, and track career progression.
Creating learning and development opportunities
HR teams can leverage HRIS platforms to offer learning and development opportunities. Some HRIS even include learning management system (LMS) features where people can access online courses, certifications, and workshops tailored to their roles.
Improved onboarding experience
HRIS automates onboarding workflows so team members can complete onboarding tasks independently, from filling out documents and reviewing company policies to signing contracts and tax forms.
An HRIS can also centralize onboarding materials so people can access welcome videos, company resources, and training materials in a single place. Automated reminders ensure timely completion of onboarding tasks, while HR teams remotely monitor milestones and progress, offering support when needed.
As a result, new joiners experience a faster, smoother onboarding process, enjoying a positive experience from day one.
Essential HRIS features for small businesses
When selecting the best HRIS for your small business, carefully evaluate its scalability, customization options, and these important features.
Time and attendance tracking
An HRIS can automatically track work hours, leave requests, and attendance. You can also use it to approve time off requests and manage accruals from a single dashboard.
Recruitment and onboarding
An HRIS simplifies recruitment by allowing you to post and manage job openings, track candidates, and manage the hiring process. Once hired, the onboarding feature ensures new joiners complete necessary documentation and training efficiently, streamlining their integration into the team.
Performance management
The performance management review process involves an ongoing series of check-ins and meetings between HR, managers, and team members to track progress and set goals.
Choosing an HRIS that offers performance management functionality allows you to build a culture of continuous feedback in the organization. People won’t need to wait for periodic check-ins to receive feedback and managers can provide real-time guidance to help team members grow.
This functionality also simplifies tracking performance over time. Managers and HR can easily revisit performance reviews stored in the HRIS to monitor progress, identify trends, and make informed decisions about promotions or development opportunities.
Reporting and analytics
The best HRIS systems can track people data including productivity, retention, task completion times, hours worked, and more.
You can also generate and share reports on performance with other stakeholders, including:
- Forecasts on future performance
- Areas of improvement
- Learning and development needs
- Turnover rates
Robust reporting and analytics offer visibility into your human resource management strategies, enabling you to make data-driven decisions for continuous improvement.
Payroll
An HRIS with an integrated payroll system automates pay calculations, tax withholdings, benefits selections, and more. This reduces manual errors, ensures compliance with regulations, and frees up time for HR teams to focus on strategic activities.
More information on HRIS systems for small businesses
Let’s learn more about HRIS for small businesses.
Which HRIS system is the best?
The best HRIS system enables businesses to streamline their core HR processes and automate processes like hiring, onboarding, performance management, compensation, time tracking, and attendance.
Bob offers all of these features—but that’s not all. It also helps small businesses build an inclusive culture, powers strategic HR initiatives, and drive decisions with actionable data.
Is an HRIS cost effective?
Yes, an HRIS can be cost effective. Once you implement your HRIS successfully, you can reduce administrative costs and automate time-consuming HR tasks, saving money and time. It also improves team efficiency and allows HR professionals to focus on strategic initiatives that drive business growth.
You can use this HRIS ROI calculator to determine if your HRIS is a cost-effective solution.
Recommended For Further Reading
How do you choose the right HRIS for your small business?
To choose the right HRIS for your small business, start by determining your budget. Consider all costs involved, including initial payments, licensing fees, and maintenance expenses.
Next, look for essential HRIS features like payroll, recruitment and onboarding, time tracking, performance management, and reporting and analytics. Verify that these features meet your current needs.
Consider user-friendliness and the software’s ability to integrate with your tech stack. Conduct thorough research on different vendors, book software demos, and read reviews about the HRIS.
Finally, prioritize scalability, especially if you plan to expand operations or hire new people locally or internationally.
Implement the best HRIS system to grow your small business
The right HRIS software for your small business can reduce admin fatigue, automate tedious manual tasks, and embed your goals into every part of your people’s journeys.
For HR leaders looking for a platform that covers all your HR needs under one roof, consider Bob. HR leaders choose Bob for its flexible, user-friendly platform that helps keep team members engaged and motivated during all stages of business.
Small businesses can use Bob to:
- Test and optimize changes and events, such as performance cycles, compensation events, imports, and automation
- Improve workforce productivity and create a strategic hiring plan
- Track KPIs such as headcount, growth, retention, and absenteeism and measure progress over time
- Manage global compensation with an intuitive and flexible solution, and run compensation cycles that include salary reviews, bonuses, and equity allocation
- Empower people to succeed with clear, actionable goals and growth plans, and by aligning them to team, department, and company goals
Whether you’re managing onboarding, tracking performance, or building a strong company culture, HiBob offers all the tools you need to succeed.
Disclaimer: The opinions expressed here are solely those of the author and do not necessarily reflect the views of the company. Prospective users are encouraged to conduct their own research to make the best decision for their organization.
