Checking References on Human Resource Software

These tips should prove very helpful when you areeven the best HR systems have unhappy customers.
begin contacting references on HR software systems.Sometimes it’s not the companies fault,
Checking References on HR systems in which yousometimes it’s the users fault, and sometimes
are interested is always a good idea. If an HRit’s just Monday.
software company can’t provide references, orChecking HRIS References Tip #3
a reference provides a poor opinion of the HR The ease of use and functionality of the HR
software, that is certainly a red flag. Neither is likely tosoftware you choose are both the most important
occur. HRIS software companies are only going toconsiderations. These can be determined by simply
provide references who are happy with their particulareffectively reviewing, comparing and testing the HRIS
HR system. They will usually call the client beforeproducts you are considering. Where I would use the
providing their name as a reference to ensure theyreferences is to get an idea on support and problems
are willing to be a reference and that they are happyduring setup or potential bugs in the HR product. Ask
with their Human Resource software. The questionthe reference how often they call support and how
then becomes, “How valuable are references if thelong they are typically on hold. How helpful are the tech
HR software companies are handpicking them?”support people? Are they usually able to solve your
Here are a couple of tips to get the most out checkingHRIS problem? You also need to ask if there are any
references when comparing HR systems.important problems or software defects of which you
Checking HRIS References Tip #1should be aware. Write out your questions before you
 Be as specific as possible with regard to which typecall or email to make sure you don’t miss
of company from which you want a reference. Thisanything.
makes it less likely for the HRIS vendor to cherry pickChecking HRIS References Tip #4
the reference for you. It’s also important to note  Make sure to not only ask for references on the
how a company in your industry has used the HRHR software but ensure you have references on
system to meet their needs. Who knows…. you mightwhoever is performing your HRIS system install. I
even be able to share tips with them going forward.would make sure that the person in charge of the
Checking HRIS References Tip #2implementation has, at the very least, ten HRIS installs
 Search online to find out who is using the HR systemof the exact HR software product you are selecting.
and cold call them for a reference. The easiest wayDepending on the industry, industry experience may be
to do this is to go to and type the name of the HRneeded, as well.
system in the keyword search. You will be presentedOverall, the message I am trying to present is that
with a list of companies who are looking for someonehand picked vendor references are only a small part
with experience with that HR system. If you are willingof the steps necessary to successfully select an HRIS
to do the work, pick out five and ask them what theysoftware application. By following the steps outlined
think of the HR system. If you are going to try thisabove, I believe you can maximize the value of the
approach, be sure to call a number of users sincereferences you contact.