What is Payroll software?

Payroll software is a computer program that automates the payment process for greater efficiency and reliability. The software removes the time-consuming work from HR personnel’s teeming to-do list, reduces error, and guarantees that employees receive correct compensation on-time. Most payroll software offers features such as:

• Calculating tax withholdings and payment deductions
• Keeping track of hours worked
• Printing paper checks
• Processing digital payments and deposits
• Providing employee self-services

Payroll software enables businesses to comply with complicated government tax regulations, pay employees and independent contractors appropriately, provide efficient, customized payment methods, and offer a user-friendly user experience. 

Companies sell payroll software as a self-contained system or as an integrated component of a multipurpose HCM program.  

Why should HR leaders care about payroll software?

Digital software systems help businesses of all sizes keep pace in the increasingly complex work landscape. Payroll software reduces paperwork and expenses, saves HR time, and promotes accurate and timely payments– a crucial component of employee satisfaction. 

Moreover, while the finance department may manage payroll, HR leaders must still keep a finger on the payroll pulse; they need to ensure that employees receive accurate, timely payments, and optimal system functioning.   

What can HR leaders do to facilitate the successful implementation of payroll software?

HR leaders can incorporate these suggestions to prepare for implementing payroll software:

• Draft a comprehensive plan. HR leaders should include an implementation timeline to help the process meets goals and remain on track. HR can also examine and report upon the gap between the current payroll system and desired payroll objectives. Furthermore, including essential information such as employee classifications and pay frequencies can help HR seamlessly transfer over to a new system. 
• Investigate. HR leaders should research to determine the software that addresses their needs. Does the payroll software offer services in the relevant countries? Does it include a robust security system? Can the software accommodate full-time employees as well as independent contractors? Does the software comply with the current taxation laws? Is user-friendly?
• Collaborate. Cooperation between HR and IT ensures that the new payroll system fulfills the tech requirements and that the company tech infrastructure can accommodate the new payroll system. Perhaps the company wants to incorporate an HR IT interface to help HR and IT teams easily share information between different software programs. 
• Enroll employee support. Employee and leadership backing of a new payroll system is fundamental to smooth system integration. ADP’s new blockbuster payroll program advises that HR leaders assemble teams to implement the new program while also preparing others to assume the regular workload. HR should also establish a training timeline, schedule, and clear employee expectations. 

How does payroll software improve company culture?

A payroll software system that provides customized solutions to a company can drive greater efficiency, productivity, and employee satisfaction. Guaranteeing that employees receive the correct payment in a personalized and timely fashion promotes a positive employee work experience. Moreover, providing consistent, accurate compensation strengthens the employee-employer relationship, building integrity in the work community.