What is an HRIS? (Human Resources Information System)
An HRIS (Human Resources Information System) is software that centralizes employee records, payroll, benefits administration, time off, performance reviews, and compliance reporting. Common HRIS platforms include BambooHR, Rippling, Gusto, Workday, and ADP Workforce Now.
In more detail
The HRIS is the system of record for everyone currently employed by the company. It stores personal information, pay history, tax forms, time-off balances, benefits enrollments, and performance reviews. Modern HRIS platforms integrate with payroll, benefits carriers, 401(k) providers, and the ATS, so data flows end-to-end without manual re-entry.
For companies with offshore staff via managed staffing or EOR, the offshore workers are typically in the provider's HRIS rather than the client's. This keeps employment compliance with the legal employer while the client uses project management tools to direct daily work.
How it works
- Employee records and org chart.
- Payroll and tax withholdings.
- Benefits enrollment and administration.
- Time and attendance, PTO tracking.
- Performance reviews and goal tracking.
- Compliance reporting (EEO-1, ACA, state).
Related terms
Mini FAQ
Payroll is a subset of an HRIS. Most modern HRIS platforms include payroll.
Once you cross 15-20 employees, manual spreadsheets become risky. An HRIS is worth the $6-$15 per employee per month.
In the managed staffing or EOR provider's HRIS, since they are the legal employer.