Quick Guide to HR Technology Terms 

Are you new to HR Technology? Currently going through the sales process and have all these terms floating around? This guide will help you as a quick reference to common terms used in HR Technology and explanations for interchangeable terms. 

A Guide to HR Technology Terms

This guide will help you as a quick reference to common terms used in HR Technology, including Saas, ATS, and explanations for interchangeable terms such software, system, and solution as well as HRIS, HCM, and HRIM.

By: Julianna Fricchione

HR Technology- Any type of computer or cloud-based application used specifically for HR needs. This includes recruiting, onboarding, performance evaluations, timekeeping, and benefits administration. 

Software vs System vs Solution– Software and System are the most interchangeable. Software is your basic product. Most Software is now cloud-based and no longer stored on your company servers, but calling something “software” usually denotes a simpler piece of technology. When something is referenced as a “System”, a vendor is conveying that their software is complex and has many features. A solution is a combination of Software and Systems to create one cohesive way of working. A stand alone Applicant Tracking System (ATS), combined with a digital document signing would create a hiring and onboarding solution. 

HRIS (Human Resource Information System) vs HRIM (Human Resource Information Management) vs. HCM (Human Capital Management)– These are the most challenging terms to differentiate because the definitions change based on who you ask. There is one school of thought that believes HCM refers to anything other than payroll, while HRIM encompasses everything. Another school of thought believes that HCM is everything including payroll, but cloud-based. To simplify things, in this age of digital technology, any term you use is fine because they all refer to an online platform that manages employee information for HR professionals to use. 

SaaS (Software as a Service)- This refers to a category of software that is stored on a vendor’s server. With SaaS providers, all updates, maintenance, and software support is taken care of by the vendor and eliminates the need for internal IT support. 

ATS (Applicant Tracking System)- One of the largest and most desired features of HCM is the ATS. An ATS is the technology that helps recruit candidates, maintain resumes, and publish jobs. 

Integrations- An integration refers to any connections between software platforms. SFTPs and APIs are examples of integrations. Integrations are common in complex HR Solutions, but they can also be found in a single vendor’s system. 

Slate Professional Resources – HR Technology Services

Slate now offers client-side implementation support for organizations implementing new Human Resources Information and Management Systems. We bring in a team of experts to assist you in every step of your implementation process, ensuring the delivery of a successful Human Resources Information and Management Systems (HRIS, HRMS, HCM) platform launch for your organization.

Interested in learning more? Contact us today.