HR Glossary
HR Software
What is HR Software?
HR software is a digital system used to manage core human resource functions such as employee records, attendance, recruitment, payroll, performance tracking, and compliance. It helps automate manual processes, centralise data, and improve workforce management to support business efficiency and employee engagement.
What Does HR Software Do?
HR software enables employers to store and manage employee information in one secure place. It helps streamline everyday HR activities, reduce paperwork, and support data-driven decisions. Many platforms integrate with payroll providers, time tracking tools, learning management systems, and employee wellbeing services to provide a single view of the workforce.
Key Features of HR Software
Common features include:
- Employee database management
- Absence and leave tracking
- Onboarding and offboarding tools
- Performance management
- Payroll and benefits integration
- Document storage and compliance reporting
- Self-service portals for employees
Why Is HR Software Important?
HR software reduces administrative burden by automating repetitive tasks and improving accuracy. This allows HR teams to focus on strategic initiatives such as employee engagement, workforce planning, and wellbeing. It also ensures sensitive information remains secure and helps organisations meet regulatory requirements.By providing a clear overview of workforce data, HR software enables better decision-making and supports a more proactive approach to employee management.
Benefits of HR Software
- Saves time by automating manual HR tasks
- Improves data accuracy and compliance
- Enhances employee experience through self-service access
- Provides real-time insight into workforce trends
- Supports hybrid and remote working environments
- Reduces costs associated with inefficient HR processes
Types of HR Software
- HR Management Systems (HRMS): Covers core HR functions including payroll, absence management, and personnel data.
- Applicant Tracking Systems (ATS): Focused on recruitment and onboarding.
- Human Capital Management (HCM): Includes strategic HR features like workforce planning and performance analytics.
- Employee Experience Platforms: Designed to boost wellbeing, engagement, and retention.
How HR Software Supports Compliance
HR software helps employers stay compliant with employment laws by automatically tracking working hours, holiday entitlements, sick leave, and documentation. It also ensures that HR records are securely stored, reducing the risk of fines or legal disputes.
HR Software and Employee Wellbeing
Modern HR software increasingly includes tools to support health, wellbeing, and absence management. This is particularly important as employee wellbeing has become a key driver of retention and organisational performance.
How GoodShape Enhances HR Software Capabilities
While many HR systems focus on administration, GoodShape goes a step further by integrating health and wellbeing insights into workforce management. GoodShape’s platform provides real-time absence reporting, clinical support, and data analytics that help employers identify patterns of sickness, manage health risks proactively, and improve productivity.
By combining HR processes with expert-led health intelligence, GoodShape empowers organisations to take a preventative approach to employee wellbeing, reducing absenteeism, increasing engagement, and supporting a healthier, more resilient workforce.
GoodShape turns HR data into actionable insights, helping businesses not just manage their people, but protect them.