Best open source HRMS systems

When it comes to your HRMS, are you looking for an off-the-shelf, plug-and-play standard package? Or are you searching for something a little more customizable? If your customization needs go beyond superficial changes like renaming fields or adding logos, and you require the ability to modify the underlying code, an open-source HRMS might be the ideal solution.

What is an open-source HRMS?

An open-source HRMS provides access to the software's source code, allowing organizations to tailor the system to their specific requirements. This flexibility is particularly beneficial for businesses with unique processes or those seeking to integrate the HRMS with other systems.

Is open-source HR software right for you?

An open-source HRMS may be right for you if:

• Standard systems fall short of meeting your specific process or technological needs.
• You have an in-house team (or other capacity on-staff) with software development skills and experience.
• Budget constraints make free or low-cost solutions appealing.
• Control and flexibility over your software align with your business principles.

Check out our HRMS product comparison engine to compare the best open-source HRMS

Selecting an open-source HRMS

When selecting an open-source HRMS, keep in mind:

• Extra features or user support packages often cost extra.
• Feature sets might be more limited compared to proprietary systems, though this is evolving.
• Maintenance and updates often rely on community contributions rather than dedicated vendor support.
• Custom developments are typically shared under the same open source license, meaning others can access and use your enhancements.

Top open-source HRMS solutions

Here, we’ve compiled a list of some of the top open-source HR management systems available, in no particular order. Use the links below to jump to each system:

• iceHRM
• OrangeHRM
• Sentrifugo
• Odoo
• Open HRMS
• Open Baraza
• iHRIS
• Jorani
• Frappe HR
• Dolibarr

1. iceHRM

iceHRM comes in three flavors, all of which give you access to the source code. The free option lacks a few features that are built into the ‘pay-for’ Pro and Enterprise versions, such as leave management, LMS, recruitment, document, and travel management.

That said, the free version is a solid and well-tested basic HRMS package you can tinker with, including basic employee records, company information (structure and organization), timesheets, and attendance management (including attendance comparison charts).

If you’re willing to pay (for the license, the hosting, or both) then you have a very sophisticated and wholly customizable system. Reviews are few but uniformly positive.

2. OrangeHRM

OrangeHRM might be the longest-running open-source HR management system out there. Although there are professional and enterprise (and SaaS) versions, the basic free option is the most popular.

With records/information management, time and attendance, leave management, recruitment, performance, and employee self-service it’s not hard to see why. Orange’s ‘entry-level’ option remains one of the more feature-packed on the market.

Review-wise, functionality receives consistent praise, however, support and responsiveness are less so (but bear in mind these reviews are from people who have not opted for the paid support and maintenance option).

3. Sentrifugo

Designed for organizations of all sizes, Sentrifugo is an intuitive and highly configurable platform supported by Sapplica.

Sentrifugo has built up its product to be feature-rich by any standards, not just those of the ‘freebie open source’ brigade.

As well as the usual HR and workforce management modules, Sentrifugo also offers management of performance appraisals, background checks, interview scheduling, talent acquisition, and even a comprehensive set of analytics. Reviews are limited but glowing, almost all being four- or five-star assessments.

The Sentrifugo website offers a support center, with a helpdesk and user forum to address common problems and concerns.

4. Odoo

Odoo is an extensive suite of open-source solutions, with functionality for ERP, CRM, project management, and more available alongside its HRMS app. So not technically an HRMS - but we thought it deserved an honorable mention. If you’re looking for a customizable HRMS that can integrate with other business systems, Odoo might just save you the trouble.

A range of core HRMS features is available; these include recruitment, leave management, expense tracking, and an appraisal tool. Reviews rarely dip below the four and five-star mark and highlight Odoo's ease of use as one of its particular advantages.

Due to the platform’s extensive functionality, it can be particularly suitable for companies looking for a flexible solution for use across numerous departments.

5. Open HRMS

Pitched as suitable for both small businesses and large enterprises, Open HRMS offers a comprehensive bundle of HR-related functionality, including records management, time and attendance, onboarding, benefits management, payroll (not available with the base package), performance management, and even automated recruitment.

One caution: online customer reviews are hard to find, so your selection process should include a focus on user recommendations, references, and other feedback.

6. Open Baraza

The Open Baraza open source HRMS is offered alongside a suite of other business solutions (all based on the same framework), including finance and investment management packages, and more specialized sector-specific software for real estate and academia. If nothing else, this shows its integration capabilities.

The HR option includes an employee database, time and attendance functionality, learning management, recruitment, performance management, payroll, and employee self-service. So far, so standard. However, Open Baraza also offers project management, features to manage your casual workforce, and even arbitration.

There are few online reviews, but those that are there are enthusiastic.

7. iHRIS

Now we’re getting specific… iHRIS is open source HR software for health organizations. Used for health workforce management, regulation, and training, iHRIS is designed for health ministries, councils, and health service delivery organizations. Function-wise, it offers five modules: workforce tracking and management, learning management, workforce planning, recruitment, and management of sector-specific qualifications.

The package comes with access to various implementation and development resources, including an implementation toolkit of template worksheets, forms, and case studies.

Available in various languages (thanks to the established developer community), iHRIS has international operations at its heart and is compliant with international data exchange standards.

8. Jorani

Jorani is open-source HR software specializing in leave management. Focusing on the basics, Jorani is a free HR system that simplifies leave and overtime requests with one-click ease and offers a range of standard reports. It suits organizations of any size, including complex enterprises with branches, subsidiaries, and departments across multiple countries, helping manage employee time efficiently..

Jorani is available in English, French, Spanish, Italian, German, Dutch, Russian, Ukrainian, Persian, Khmer, Vietnamese, Czech, and Turkish (though the documentation comes in English and French only).

9. Frappe HR

Frappe HR is a modern, user-friendly, and 100% open-source HR software that simplifies HR and payroll operations. Built on the Frappe Framework, it offers modules for recruitment, employee lifecycle management, leave and attendance, expense management, performance management, payroll, and taxation.

Its integration with ERPNext ensures seamless accounting processes. The platform is highly customizable, supports mobile access, and is backed by a robust community.

10. Dolibarr

Dolibarr is an open-source CRM and ERP solution with a versatile HR module offering features like payroll automation, recruitment, onboarding, leave management, contract handling, and CV management. Its modular design lets users activate only the required features, with strong community support providing continuous updates.

Conclusion

Open source HRMS isn’t for everyone, and the more customization you want, the more work it takes. However, if it’s suitable for your business needs, then there are increasing numbers of systems on the market, offering increasing degrees of functionality and/or specialization. The eight systems above are some of the more widely available and representative systems.