The human resource information system (HRIS) is defined as a HR data systems or software used to collect and store employee information. An organization can either have a technical HRIS server, cloud-based or outsource from a vendor. Because HRIS aids in human resource management planning, it is also known as Human Resource Management Systems (HRMS). The software is used in all aspects of human resources, including organizing, developing, and structuring.

Purpose of HRIS system

The human resource information system serves various purposes to organizations as below.

1. Record-keeping: Every organization needs a good track of personnel records, and HRIS does the work. It manages organizational issues related to employees while keeping track of any changes.
2. Compliance: HRIS stores employees' information for compliance purposes. This information includes employees' identification details for company security, contact information for emergencies, citizenship certification for tax compliance, among others.
3. Efficiency: Because of its accuracy, the HRIS brings efficiency to an organization by saving time.
4. Tracking HR strategy: The tracking of business and HR strategy is essential in organizations. The HRIS eases this process by monitoring all the different HR data.
5. Aids in HR service: With the HRIS in place, employees can handle their affairs without the HR personnel's intervention. However, not all HRIS can offer this service. 

Having HRIS software is essential to an organization, especially if you have more than 30 employees. It makes the HRIS management easier by offloading the cumbersome excel procedure so you can focus on other internal matters.

Types of HRIS modules

The HRIS serves all areas of the human resource department with different functionalities. Below are the types of HRIS modules you are likely to come across.

• Applicant Tracking System: When it comes to handling all matters relating to employee recruiting, this software does the work. It tracks an applicant's information to match the company's job description.
• Payroll: This tool automatically creates payment orders for employees. Employees' contractual and attendance details are usually entered when hiring so that by the end of the month, payments are quickly processed.
• Benefits: Employee benefits in an organization is essential and very sensitive. As such, the HRIS ensures that employees receive the benefits they desire. Some organizations will allow a self-service HRIS whereby an employee selects a benefit that best suits their needs.
• Training: This software tracks employee learning and development making it easy to identify quality talent when planning for the organization's future.
• Performance management: Managing and tracking employee performance now and then is essential to every organization.
• Succession plan: The HRIS helps select the right talent for replacement in the organization's top positions. Without executive staff, the performance of an organization will go down the drain.
• Reporting and analytics: This module of the HRIS states whether an employee was absent or present. It also analyses this employee data for informed decisions.

Now that you know what HRIS mean do not agonize when it comes to managing your employees. HRIS makes the HR functions simpler. Investing in a HRIS software is like focusing on the future so choose a HRIS type wisely.