Top 6 questions to ask before replacing your HR Software.

Buying a new HR system for your company can be a bit of a minefield, especially as there are so many systems available that offer different functionality at different prices.

Having used your Vizual Personnel Manager software for the past 10 (or even 20 years in some cases) the last thing you want is to invest in a new system, only to find it does not meet your business requirements and replacing it would be costly and more than a little embarrassing.

It’s very easy to be swayed by great looking systems and slick sales people, overlooking what functionality it actually offers, so to help here’s our top 6 questions to ask yourselves before parting with your cash.

1. What is it you really need?

It sounds obvious and easy but one of the most difficult challenges is to figure out what it is you want the new system to do for you.

Understanding what information your record and the processes you have in place is vital before then identifying what it is you would like to achieve by implementing a new HR system.

You may need to think outside of the box and consider other areas within the business that fall under the HR Teams’ responsibility such as managing Fleet, Employee Training, Company Equipment etc.

Then decide what is important and what is nice to have when you are looking for your next system.

2. How easy is it to use?

A system that is easy to use can really determine how successful it is going to be going forwards to avoid the need for additional ongoing training and support to help you get to grips with it.

Get your supplier to give you an online demonstration to see how easy it is to use.

3. Is it secure?

Data security is critical in this day and age. The new system must keep your employee information totally secure and only relevant information is accessible only specific users.

Make sure to ask, where is the data stored and how? What facility is there for creating specific user profiles to restrict access to relevant areas?

4. Can I access it remotely?

Its more likely that some of your employees will be working away from your office such as working from home.  In order to prevent delays in processing HR related tasks such as booking holidays, make sure your new system has a facility where it can be securely accessed remotely.

Better still if you want to replace paper processes, make sure it has Employee Self Service functionality from laptops, tablets and mobile phones.

5. Is it flexible?

Things change quickly these days so make sure your new system has good history of updates and an ongoing development programme.

It’s also a extremely useful if it provides functionality that allows you to customise it to meet your requirements such as adding custom data fields and to create your own Letters and reports.

6. Is the supplier going to look after me?

Getting a supplier with an excellent track record and experience of working with implementing HR Software is just as important as the software itself.

Look for a supplier who is committed to working with you as a partner rather than just another customer. If you can speak to someone who looks after customer support (and not just the sales person).

Further information

AgathonHR have been working on Vizual Personnel Manager and Personnel Director since 1997 and are one of the last companies in the UK to have any experience using or supporting these systems. Additionally we have been working with People Inc. since 2009 and are one the main People Inc. resellers in the UK. This means we can provide the best possible service to ensure the upgrade goes as effectively as possible.

Whilst we can no longer sell Personnel Manager, we do currently provide the following:

• Upgrades to People Inc. including data migration.
• Discounted annual support packages
• Basic training for new users
• Report Writing Training.
• Consultancy – Data tidying, customisation etc.

Further information can be found on our website http://agathonhr.co.uk. If you require any support with Vizual Personnel Manager please call 01242 663974 or email support@vizualpersonnel.co.uk.