Choosing the Right HR System for a Growing Business
Outgrowing spreadsheets is a sign of progress — but choosing an HR system can feel overwhelming. Should you get an HRIS? Payroll software? An all-in-one platform? Or wait until you “need it”?
We help growing companies evaluate and implement HR technology that makes sense for their size, team, and budget. Here’s what to consider before you sign a contract.
Step 1: Understand What You Actually Need
There are dozens of tools, but you probably don’t need everything right away. Focus on your immediate pain points.
Common starting points:
Centralized employee records
Paid time off tracking
Payroll & benefits integration
Onboarding templates
Start with core functions and grow from there. Simpler is often better.
Step 2: Know the Difference Between Tools
Here’s how to think about common categories:
HRIS (Human Resource Information System) – Core HR management (employees, PTO, compliance)
Payroll Software – Pay, taxes, deductions (e.g., Gusto, ADP)
ATS (Applicant Tracking System) – Recruitment pipelines
Benefits Platforms – Open enrollment, healthcare admin
Some platforms do it all. Others specialize. The key is picking one that’s easy to use and integrates well with what you already have.
Step 3: Budget for Setup & Support — Not Just Software
Many small businesses sign up for tools and never fully use them because no one owns the implementation. That’s wasted money.
We help clients:
Evaluate platforms (like BambooHR, Gusto, Rippling, etc.)
Project-manage the setup and migration
Train their team on how to use it
Don’t underestimate how valuable a smooth rollout is for team morale and adoption.
Step 4: Consider Scalability
Ask: Will this tool still work for us in 2 years? You don’t want to switch systems every time your team grows by 10 people.
Look for platforms that:
Allow for tiered pricing
Have good customer support
Offer integrations with tools you’re already using (Slack, Google Workspace, etc.)
Choosing HR tech doesn’t have to be overwhelming. With the right guidance, you’ll avoid common traps and implement tools that support your team, not frustrate them.
Need help selecting or implementing HR systems? That’s what we do — and we make it seamless.