HR Information Systems

Example Job Titles: Director of Human Resources Information Systems (HRIS), HRIS Senior Manager, Head of HR Management Systems (HRMS), PeopleSoft/SAP HR Implementation Director.
Overview: The HR Information System (HRIS) is the software programme that automates and tracks HR data, and is necessary to help streamline the administrative burden of the information-heavy HR function. The HRIS practitioner acts as the interface between the business, the HR department and the IT department of the company. They combine the technical aspects of an IT programmer with the HR knowledge of an HR Generalist to create systems that match the workflows of the way HR should operate. The role is becoming increasingly important as more HR processes such as payroll, performance management systems and recruitment information are automated, and it’s a sought-after specialisation in the field.
Suitability Factors: HRIS practitioners usually come from technical IT backgrounds before moving into HR, but some HR Generalists and HR Operations specialists can also transition well into the role. As would be expected with this role, HRIS experts have high attention to detail and a good understanding of HR processes. Sometimes HRIS can form part of either the Compensation & Benefits team or the HR Operations / Shared Services team, and for longer-term career growth it can be wise for a pure HRIS practitioner to develop skills in these additional specialisations.