Cloud-based HR is key to business agility. It’s scalable, secure, accessible and cost-effective, but perhaps most importantly, it provides real-time visibility across key staffing and labour data points, enabling smarter, faster business decision-making.
HR departments are constantly adapting and catering to evolving stakeholder needs. Cloud-based HR allows for easy adaptability with scalable, holistic solutions for effortless stakeholder management, greater collaboration and far-reaching cost benefits. In this guide, we look at what makes cloud HR so crucial to business agility.
An Overview: What is a Cloud-Based HR System?
Cloud-based HR, also known as HRMS (Human Resource Management System) or HRIS (Human Resource Information System), is a web-based software solution that enables businesses to streamline and automate various HR functions. Unlike traditional on-site HR systems, cloud-based HR platforms are hosted on remote servers and accessed via the internet, allowing users to access the system anytime, anywhere, using either a web browser or dedicated mobile apps.
Understanding the Mechanics of Cloud-Based HR Systems
Cloud-based HR systems operate by securely storing and processing employee-related data in a centralised database. Here's a look at how they work:
- Data Storage and Security: Employee information, such as personal details, employment history, performance evaluations, and training records, are stored securely in the cloud. Advanced security measures, including encryption and regular backups, ensure data integrity and protection.
- Employee Self-Service: Cloud-based HR platforms often include employee self-service portals, allowing employees to access and update their personal information, submit time-off requests, view pay stubs, and access company policies.
- Performance Management: Managers can set goals, provide continuous feedback, and conduct performance reviews using the system. Performance data can be tracked over time, helping managers make informed decisions regarding promotions, rewards, and training opportunities.
- Time and Attendance Management: These systems offer time and attendance management features, allowing employees to log their working hours, track overtime, and request time off.
- Analytics and Reporting: HRMS provides powerful reporting and analytics capabilities, allowing HR professionals and managers to generate real-time reports on various HR metrics.
Why Cloud-Based HR Systems are a Game-Changer
Many businesses still use up to half a dozen disjointed offline and online tools to manage HR. From payroll processing to leave management, HR departments often juggle disparate, unintegrated solutions leading to precious hours wasted on admin, double handling and data entry.
Cloud-based HR tools bring together a comprehensive suite of HR tools into a central platform, automating tasks and enabling HR departments to dedicate more time and brain power to business improvements.
- Integrated Solutions: Cloud based HR brings multiple HR processes into one central system, eliminating the need for cumbersome manual processes.
- Accessibility and Flexibility: These systems can be accessed from anywhere, making it convenient for remote workforces and geographically dispersed teams.
- Cost-Efficiency: By eliminating the need for costly hardware installations and maintenance, cloud-based HR systems offer a more budget-friendly alternative.
- Automation and Efficiency: By automating repetitive HR tasks, these systems save valuable time and reduce human errors.
- Data Security: Robust security measures ensure the confidentiality and integrity of employee data.
- Scalability: Businesses can easily accommodate growth or downsize as needed, adding or removing users, storage capacity, and modules without significant disruptions.
- Employee Data Visibility: Gain real-time insights into attendance, absenteeism, leave, staffing needs and more.
HR Cloud Software and Business Agility
Cloud-based HR software provides real-time data and analytics, enabling HR professionals to make informed and prompt decisions. It also offers automation of repetitive tasks, freeing up professionals to focus on strategic initiatives.
Cloud-based HR software also supports remote work, providing flexibility to employees and boosting overall productivity. With almost 50% of Australians working from home in some capacity, providing employees access to online HR is crucial in meeting modern employees where they are.
Cloud HR software also ensures seamless integration with other business systems, helping to streamline processes and reduce errors, enhancing operational efficiency.
By centralising employee data, automating processes, and providing accessibility, cloud-based HR systems enhance efficiency, accuracy, and employee satisfaction and enable HR teams to lead the charge in adapting to change. 
OneAdvanced People: Industry-Leading Cloud HR Software
OneAdvanced People is a suite of People Management software solutions designed to help HR and leaders support and empower their people to the best of their ability. By integrating these solutions with cloud-based HR systems, businesses can effectively address challenges in people management and drive productivity.
Embracing cloud-based HR is not just a wise business decision; it's an investment in the future. The convenience, cost-efficiency, flexibility, and advanced features make it a valuable tool for any organisation looking to optimise its HR processes.