How to select the best HRMS for your mobile HR requirements

In case your last name is Van Winkle and you’ve spent the last X years asleep… the future is here, and it’s mobile. Most software vendors now offer mobile apps as part of their products and have done for some time.

From streamlining HR tasks to improving employee engagement, mobile HR software has revolutionized how organizations operate. But with countless options available, how do you select the right HR mobile app for your business? This guide explores the essentials of HR mobile apps—from their benefits to features and vendor options.

What is mobile HR?

Mobile HR enables HR teams and employees to manage essential HR functions via smartphones or tablets. With a human resources mobile app, companies can streamline tasks like payroll, time tracking, and communication. Employees benefit from real-time access to information, making HR processes more efficient and engaging. As mobile technology becomes a workplace standard, mobile HR apps are helping businesses stay connected and competitive.

The rise of mobile HR

The widespread use of smartphones has redefined workplace communication and operations. HR mobile apps for employees have gained popularity as organizations adopt flexible working arrangements and BYOD (Bring Your Own Device) policies. The demand for mobile-friendly HR solutions reflects a workforce that values convenience, connectivity, and autonomy.

Advantages of mobile HR

For businesses:

• A more connected workforce: Mobile access ensures employees - whether remote, on-site, or hybrid - stay connected with company systems and colleagues.
• Improved employee engagement: Accessible tools like ESS (Employee Self-Service) portals and real-time updates foster collaboration and inclusivity.
• Scalability: As businesses grow, mobile HR solutions adapt to evolving needs, offering advanced functionalities like continuous performance tracking.

For employees:

• 24/7 access to HR functions: Employees can check schedules, request time off, and view pay details at any time.
• Transparency: Easily accessible information boosts trust and reduces administrative bottlenecks.
• Convenience: HR tasks that once required desktops can now be completed via mobile apps.

Mobile HR requirements to consider during HRMS selection

So, what do you look for when researching the market, drawing up a shortlist of potential vendors and viewing and testing individual systems?

• Employee self-service (ESS): ESS is the biggest driver behind the ongoing rise of mobile HRMS, usually via some kind of online HR portal, offering remote access to personal data and records, time off requests, and access to paychecks.
• Time and attendance: with an automated, and often biometric, time clock, the problem of buddy punching has become almost a thing of the past and mobile technology means that off-site workers can still punch in, monitor their hours worked and be monitored by the relevant supervisor or manager. 
• Request management: for the average worker, management approval is still required for a variety of requests. With the right mobile app, off-site workers have equivalent access to their office brethren, able to request paid time off, training and learning activities, reimbursement of travel expenses, and potentially any other routine worker-management administrative interaction.
• Real-time notifications: Apps offer push notifications for updates such as approvals, shift changes, or company announcements.
• Training and onboarding: Employees can complete onboarding paperwork or access training resources on the go.

Identify and prioritize your mobile HRMS requirements using this fully customizable requirements template

How to choose the right HRMS mobile app

Selecting the right HR mobile app requires aligning its features with your organization’s needs. Key considerations include:

1. User experience: Opt for an app that is intuitive and easy to navigate for all users.
2. Device compatibility: Ensure the app works seamlessly on iOS, Android, and other platforms to avoid exclusions.
3. Offline functionality: Apps should allow data input without an internet connection, syncing updates when connectivity resumes.
4. Security features: Look for advanced encryption, role-based access, and biometric authentication to protect sensitive data.
5. Scalability and customization: Choose a solution that grows with your business and integrates with other tools, such as payroll or scheduling software.

Check out our free HRMS features guide to find all the features your business needs your HR software to have

Top HRMS vendors with mobile functionality

• ADP: ADP was among the first HR software vendors to offer mobile support. The app lets employees and managers access key HR functions anytime. Employees can view pay statements, clock in/out, manage benefits, and handle taxes on the go. Managers can approve time off, manage schedules, and oversee the workforce. Biometric login (Fingerprint and Face ID) ensures data security. The app integrates with various ADP products, making it suitable for organizations of all sizes.
• BambooHR: The BambooHR mobile app simplifies HR for small and medium businesses. Employees can manage time-off requests, access the company directory, and stay updated on announcements. Managers can approve time off and review employee records through a user-friendly interface. With its clean design, BambooHR’s app is a simple way to boost productivity and employee engagement.
• CezanneHR: CezanneHR’s mobile app, designed for iOS and Android devices, acts as an employee self-service portal. It offers employees features like time-off requests, access to work schedules, and viewing pending tasks. Managers can monitor approvals and employee records in real-time. Its streamlined design ensures that HR processes are accessible and efficient for small and medium-sized enterprises.
• Zoho People mobile app: The Zoho People mobile app is a feature-rich solution that supports both employees and managers with HR tasks. It includes tools for time tracking, attendance management, leave requests, and access to employee documents. The app integrates seamlessly with Zoho’s broader ecosystem, making it a powerful choice for businesses already using Zoho products. Real-time notifications keep employees connected, and its intuitive design ensures ease of use for HR professionals and employees alike.

^{Originally written by Heather Batyski}