Integrations & technical
What is an HRIS?
An HRIS (Human Resources Information System) is software that centralizes and automates a company's HR data: payroll, absences, skills, recruiting, and training.
How does an HRIS work?
It brings employee administrative data into one shared system, automates processes like time-off requests or payroll, and serves as the source of truth for HR and management alike.
Does an HRIS handle team schedules too?
Rarely in detail. An HRIS focuses on HR administrative data, while dedicated scheduling software handles day-to-day team organization. The two are frequently connected via API.
Real-world example
When an employee requests time off in the HRIS, that absence can automatically flow into the scheduling tool, which removes them from the affected shifts and flags the scheduler if a replacement is needed.
What are the pros and cons of an HRIS?
An HRIS makes HR data more reliable and centralized, cutting payroll errors and admin time. Its limit: it's rarely built for detailed day-to-day shift scheduling, a gap best covered by connecting it to dedicated scheduling software.
HRIS vs scheduling software
| HRIS | Scheduling software | |
|---|---|---|
| Main function | HR administrative data (payroll, absences). | Day-to-day team organization. |
| Usage frequency | Occasional (requests, declarations). | Daily. |
| Audience | HR team, employees. | Schedulers, team managers. |
Key takeaways
- Human Resources Information System.
- Centralizes payroll, absences, skills, and recruiting data.
- Connects to scheduling software for day-to-day team organization.
Visual Planning connects to your HRIS to sync availability, absences, and skills.
Frequently asked questions
Is an HRIS the same thing as scheduling software?
No. An HRIS manages HR administrative data, while scheduling software handles day-to-day team organization. The two are often connected.
Does an HRIS handle team schedules?
Rarely in detail, which is why many companies connect their HRIS to dedicated scheduling software.
What are the most common HRIS platforms in the U.S.?
Widely used platforms include Workday, ADP, BambooHR, and Gusto.
Why connect an HRIS to scheduling software?
To avoid double data entry for absences and skills, and to make sure the schedule always reflects up-to-date HR data.
Related terms
ERP
Resource Planning
HR Management
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