Moving to the cloud: three reasons it makes smart business sense

People software is experiencing the same evolution that ERP software is – it’s moving from PC-focused, client/server technology to a cloud-based or SaaS model – and for many of the same reasons. Cloud applications help growing companies remain agile and efficient as their operations expand and evolve. Here are just three of many reasons a move to cloud-based technology platform makes smart business sense.

Integration

Many companies still rely on spreadsheets and even paper files to track various aspects of human resource management. Others are benefiting from the efficiencies an HRMS application delivers, but deploy separate, disparate applications to manage tasks not included in the HRMS, such as recruiting, training, and performance management.

Modern cloud-based systems go beyond the basic HR functions, incorporating talent-management functionality. By integrating all People activities, you gain enormous efficiencies, eliminate duplicate entry tasks, and facilitate better reporting and analytics. Taking integration one step further, when your HCM system integrates with your ERP application, the benefits multiply further.

Global compliance

Traditional applications were simply not designed with global operations in mind. They are not able to support the different compliance mandates found outside of their home markets. They also typically lack the ability to integrate with the multiple payroll systems required to operate globally, meaning updates and changes must then be entered into both the HR system and the payroll system.

A globally-connected, cloud-based system is designed to meet the challenges associated with a multinational workforce, supporting global processes and policies while enabling a country or regional team to remain compliant with local laws and regulations. With flexible configuration options, global accessibility, integration with multiple payroll systems, and quick access to valuable workforce metrics, your operation can expand its workforce with confidence.

Empowerment and efficiency

On-premise applications too often result in information silos – static databases only accessible to those in the office. Rather than engaging employees by enabling them to manage their own profiles electronically, many HR systems require employees to fill out and submit paper forms. Those forms are then keyed into the system by HR personnel, stealing productivity and introducing the opportunity for error. Data changes for employees in satellite offices are often gathered abroad and then sent by email, to be rekeyed into the domestically-housed system.

A modern cloud-based platform is built around accessibility – anywhere, anytime, from any device – just what your modern workforce expects. Employees can change their address, complete their own holiday requests and sickness reporting, and view leave entitlements and other accruals. Managers can review and approve data while they’re on the go, resulting in a speedy, paper-free process.

Applications are moving to the cloud for a very good reason – cloud technology is uniquely capable of meeting the demands of a growing, global organization with a modern, mobile workforce.