Once you have decided that your HR department needs a new HRIS, there are a few steps you will need to take before implementing a new system.
Step 1: Get Everyone On Board
Some people are resistant to change. In order to ensure a smooth transition, it’s critical that everyone is on board with the new HRIS before making the switch.
Step 2: Build a Project Team
The implementation process can seem long and arduous, but once completed, the results are invaluable. Put together a dedicated and capable project team to make the implementation process significantly faster and more efficient.
Step 3: Compare Different HRIS Systems
Support: Consider how much support your organization will need from the HRIS provider. Be sure the provider is able to deliver with the best training and support methods for your organization.
Approach: Depending on the HRIS provider, there are many different approaches to implementation. For example, some providers may mitigate data for you, while others may only hand out guides to assist you through the process. Another difference between approaches is that some providers will have onsite implementations, as compared to other providers who will give implementation support through web-ex presentations.
Protection: Your IT staff should analyze the proposed data migration plan from the vendor. Your HRIS will house sensitive data about your organization and its employees, and thus, the provider should utilize best practices to protect the data.
Strategy: Remain focused on your main objectives and try not to rush your “go live” date. Transferring the amount of data and training someone on a new HRIS is a lengthy process that requires time to ensure a thorough job.
Commitment: Be sure your entire organization is excited and committed to completing the implementation. This project will take the entire organization to implement and will have profound effects on your organization’s ability to propel its HR department forward.
Step 4: Implement and Train
During the implementation process, your team will go through extensive training. However, this group may not include everyone that will use the new HRIS system. Be sure to sit down with everyone at your organization who will be utilizing the new system and train them on how to use it properly. This will decrease errors made once the switch is finalized and help your employees feel more confident in using the system.
Step 5: Redefine, Reconfigure, Reinvent, and Recharge!
Redefine your HR management mantra to be more automated and use more real-time reports. Reconfigure how you will do certain HR processes in a more efficient manner. Reinvent your employee experience so you can retain your top talent.
By the end of this process you will have a recharged HR department that can increase productivity, retention, and recruitment, while allowing the organization to focus on what matters most – your clients.
This DATIS Blog was written by Carley Donovan, DATIS, on May 11th, 2016 and may not be re-posted without permission.