Short note: HR information system

A Human Resource Information System (HRIS) is an information system that collects, stores, processes and reports data about an organisation's employees and HR activities. It combines HR management with information technology to support HR decisions and administration.

Main functions

• Employee records: personal data, qualifications, job history.
• Recruitment and selection: vacancies, applications, interviews and appointment.
• Payroll and benefits: salary, tax, provident fund, allowance, leave.
• Attendance and leave management.
• Training and development: skills records and training plans.
• Performance appraisal.
• Career and succession planning.
• Compliance and reporting: labour law reports and government returns.
• Employee self-service: staff view payslips and apply for leave online.

Components

Database of employee data, application software for each HR module, hardware/network, procedures, and people (HR staff and employees).

Levels of use

• Operational (payroll, attendance), tactical (staffing and budget) and strategic (workforce planning).

Benefits

Saves time and cost, reduces errors, gives quick access to accurate data, supports better decisions, improves employee service and ensures legal compliance.

Example

A bank uses an HRIS to manage thousands of staff, run payroll, track transfers and prepare training plans.