If you're evaluating HR technology options, it can be a challenging process. Before signing on the dotted line, it's important to understand your HR goals, and internal capabilities when it comes to the process of setting up new software - Consider the following questions:

Does it fit your budget?

You’ll be able to find price points quite easily online – but look beyond just the sticker price of various HR platforms – and look closely. Some HR technology may have small business and enterprise versions that you need to upgrade to to get the full amount of features that you’re looking for.

At the same time, you can also incur a lot of hidden costs that are associated with the annual maintenance, training, installation, upgrades, and additional security features. Be sure to inquire with the provider about this before signing up for anything.

Also – Try taking it for a spin and ask about a free trial.

What is the goal?

Are you looking for assistance with your onboarding? Concerned about talent acquisition success? Or is employee engagement what you’re looking to tackle? Whatever the need, identify exactly what that need is first, and then go from there. While many new, cutting edge HR technologies can be alluring, it might not necessarily fit your company’s strategic objectives.

Identifying exactly what your goal is beforehand will also help you avoid signing up for more capabilities or extra features than are necessary – Remember, customization is key.

Who is responsible for implementation?

When purchasing HR tech, sometimes it can require specialized software. Even if you don’t need additional hardware, you’re likely going to need human assistance.

Determine who in HR will be owning the implementation and leading the project. HR professionals don’t need to be and likely aren’t IT experts, so it’s helpful to partner with the IT department when going through this part of the process.

Consider also having a ‘change team’ that helps with pre/post implementation. These people are ambassadors who have already bought into the new tech and are keen to start using it.

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