HR Glossary
Single Sign-On (SSO)
What is Single Sign-On?
Single Sign-On (SSO) is an authentication method that allows users to access multiple applications or systems using one set of login credentials. Instead of remembering separate usernames and passwords for each platform, users sign in once and are automatically granted access to connected systems.
SSO is commonly used in workplace software environments where employees need to access several digital tools throughout the day. By integrating applications through a central identity provider, organisations can simplify the login process while maintaining strong security controls.
In absence management platforms, Single Sign-On allows employees and managers to access the system quickly and securely using their existing workplace login credentials.
Why is Single Sign-On Important?
Managing multiple login credentials can be inconvenient for employees and challenging for organisations from both a security and administrative perspective. Forgotten passwords, repeated login prompts, and inconsistent authentication processes can disrupt productivity and create additional support requests for IT teams.
Single Sign-On addresses these issues by centralising user authentication and providing a smoother user experience.
SSO helps organisations:
-
Reduce the number of passwords employees need to remember
-
Improve security by using trusted identity providers
-
Simplify access to workplace systems and platforms
-
Reduce password reset requests and IT support workload
-
Improve user adoption of digital tools and platforms
-
Ensure consistent authentication policies across systems
By making access easier and more secure, Single Sign-On supports both operational efficiency and stronger cybersecurity practices.
How Single Sign-On Works
Single Sign-On works by connecting applications to a central authentication service, often referred to as an identity provider. When a user logs in through this provider, their identity is verified and a secure authentication token is generated.
This token allows the user to access connected applications without needing to log in again. If the user attempts to open another integrated system, the authentication token confirms their identity automatically.
Many organisations use identity providers such as Microsoft Azure Active Directory, Google Workspace, or other enterprise authentication platforms to manage Single Sign-On across their systems.
This approach ensures that access permissions can be centrally controlled while maintaining a seamless login experience for employees.
Benefits of Single Sign-On for Organisations
Implementing Single Sign-On offers several operational and security benefits for organisations:
Improved user experience: Employees can access systems quickly without managing multiple login credentials.
Stronger security controls: Authentication is handled through trusted identity providers that support advanced security measures such as multi-factor authentication.
Reduced IT workload: Fewer password-related issues mean fewer support requests for IT teams.
Better access management: Administrators can control user permissions and system access from a central platform.
Greater adoption of digital tools: Simplified login processes make it easier for employees to use workplace systems regularly.
These benefits help organisations improve both productivity and system security.
The Role of Single Sign-On in GoodShape
GoodShape supports Single Sign-On to make accessing the platform easier and more secure for employees, managers, and HR teams. By integrating with existing workplace identity providers, users can sign in to GoodShape using the same credentials they use for other company systems.
This seamless login experience reduces the need for additional passwords and encourages consistent use of the platform for absence reporting and management.
Single Sign-On also allows organisations to maintain central control over authentication and user permissions while ensuring employees can access GoodShape quickly when they need to report absence or review information.
By supporting secure and convenient access through SSO, GoodShape helps organisations simplify system access, improve user adoption, and maintain strong security standards across their workforce systems.