One of the main reasons behind the corporate investment in software, especially within the HR and payroll administration industry, is that of empowerment. This word is used to describe the scenario in which people are provided with the specific tools to improve their capacity to complete tasks.
It is a major driving force behind the industry and explains why the software solutions market is considered one of the fastest growing within the ICT sector at large.
The term ‘entrance-to-exit’ most closely defines the extent to which software can be integrated into an organisation. Software solutions could be used at the front end of an organisation as a primary level of interface for employees and employers. Alternatively, they can be integrated across the organisation, at all levels, encompassing all departments and affecting management at every level.
While this is largely dependent on the size of an organisation, as well as the nature of its business, the basic principle of efficiency in service and delivery remains the same. Technology is also designed to directly assist companies and clients to become employers of choice. Essentially, this is down to an improvement of core processes and procedures.
Effective solutions lay the foundation for faster, accurate web-based reporting, instant service-orientated customer relationship management and reliable support. More companies are investing in technical architecture and infrastructure to support the introduction and use of solutions.
It is widely understood that most workplaces are becoming paperless environments.
The process of remuneration can be used as an example. Companies are now in a position to issue a payslip in three different ways. It could be issued as a conventional ‘hard-copy’, or as an email which saves on printing and distribution costs. Alternatively, businesses can make the slip available on its intranet, thanks to the introduction of an employee self service module.
Application for leave could be used as another example. There are some organisations that have made paper-based applications obsolete. Today it is generally accepted that it is possible to introduce a system that allows for electronic applications that are also processed for first, second and even third-level management approval.
The essential premise is that a powerful and effective solution is one that encourages a ‘hands-on’ approach, is easily understood by decision makers and can be integrated with existing technology and infrastructure with little or no affect on daily operations.
This is a key requirement that is common to many businesses throughout South Africa and Africa. Businesses throughout the continent also require advice and input from reliable, preferably established service providers.
The service provider has a significant role to play in helping to generate business opportunity and enabling companies to better leverage off technical investment.
It is in solution development and customisation that service providers can add significant value. Against this backdrop it is not difficult to see why solution development and integration is likely to continue to impact on the environment and result in far more expedient ways of operating.
