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Key Attributes of Compensation Management Software – Must Have Features

Written by Salary.com Staff

April 4, 2024

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Today, HR teams must do more than figure out how much to pay employees. They need special software to help with this task. This software keeps employees happy, helps HR teams stay organized, and ensures the company's plans are on target.

Managing compensation seems like it is all about numbers. But without the right software, it can become just that – a bunch of numbers without any real strategy behind them.

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What is Compensation Management Software?

Compensation management software helps companies figure out and distribute pay, such as bonuses and stock options, in a simple and organized way. Its main goal is to keep employees happy and motivated while letting managers and HR focus on important tasks.

Managers use this software to:

  • Make smart decisions about pay.
  • Avoid wasting money.
  • Make sure top employees get rewarded properly.

But not all software is the same. When choosing one, look for these important features to handle all aspects of pay and get rid of manual work and confusing spreadsheets.

Essential Features of Compensation Management Software

When looking for software to handle employee compensation, here are some key features you should not overlook:

  • Total Compensation Allocation

Compensation is not only about regular paychecks. You need software that can effectively handle different parts of compensation, such as bonuses and stock options.

  • Communication of Compensation

It is important to communicate compensation details clearly to employees. Look for software that lets you share compensation statements online, making it easier for managers to communicate with their teams.

  • Plan Workflow Automation

Your software must be able to automate the compensation planning process, from setting up approval workflows to sending alerts when action is needed.

  • Simplified Award Calculations

Manual calculations can lead to errors and waste time. Look for software that can accurately handle complex calculations, saving you time and money.

  • Global Pay Requirements

For global companies, the software must be able to work in various languages, currencies, and places, so it follows the rules of each area.

  • Review and Reporting Tools

Effective compensation decisions require access to data and analytics. Look for software that offers reporting tools to analyze compensation trends and make informed decisions.

  • Auditable and Compliant Processes

The software must help you stay compliant with labor laws and corporate policies by tracking all compensation-related actions and decisions.

  • Automated Budget Controls

To avoid budget overruns, look for software with automated budget controls that allow for flexibility in budgeting and recalculating as needed.

  • Integration

The software must seamlessly integrate with other HR systems like performance management and payroll, ensuring a smooth flow of data across different platforms.

By considering these essential features, you can find the right compensation management software to meet your organization's needs.

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What are the Key Parts of Total Compensation Management Software?

Compensation Planning

This feature helps set up, change, and handle payment plans. It makes paying employees and collaboration easier.

Administration

Administration gathers and shows all parts of the payment plan, giving a complete view.

Time Tracking

Automated time tracking ensures employees are paid on time and for the right hours they worked.

Employee Self-service

Employees can access their financial records and info, promoting transparency, through self-service options.

Why HR Professionals Must Use Compensation Management Software

HR professionals must consider using compensation management software because it can help businesses manage costs better.

Aside from this, it can assist managers and HR in making smart decisions about hiring and compensation plans. Businesses that offer competitive compensation can see three benefits in employees:

  • Increased productivity
  • Higher engagement
  • Better retention

How HR Professionals Can Use Compensation Management Software

HR professionals can adopt compensation management software by following these steps:

  • Set Goals

HR leaders must write down goals for using the new software, such as cutting costs, reducing workload, and offering attractive compensation.

  • Secure Financial Support

Consult financial advisors to set a reasonable budget. Get support from executives by appointing a project sponsor to oversee the process.

  • Seek Help

Consult with consultants and employees who will use the software. Break tasks into teams for IT, communication, project management, and financial experts.

  • Stay on Track

Create a list of criteria with input from employees to ensure the software meets their needs.

  • Build Strong Relationships with Vendors

Communicate openly with vendors about the company's needs to develop a productive partnership.

  • Engage Managers

Provide support and training to managers who are key users of the software. Encourage success and offer individualized help as needed.

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In conclusion, compensation management software is important because it has many useful features, can adapt as your business gets bigger, gives good support and training, and can work nicely with other HR tools. This can involve assisting new users to get started, offering support, having a platform for users to ask questions, and giving each user a manager for help.

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