Why Use a HRIS Implementation Partner?
One question we are frequently asked is - why should a business investing in a new HRIS system use an implementation partner? Here are the main benefits of using an HRIS implementation partner as we see it:
Broader HRIS and Technology Expertise:
A partner can bring experience of different sectors, systems and approaches. These elements can help deploy the new HRIS system more efficiently avoiding pitfalls that cause delay. They can also bring impartiality to configuration discussions and the impact of those choices on the organisation's HR system. This infusion of specialist expertise can help avoid the "If I knew what I know today, I would have done things differently" situations.
Service and Speed:
Partners often provide a more flexible, personal service especially for small or mid-sized firms that are not likely to be the biggest client. A partner's specialist skills will also speed up the implementation process so that internal resource can be focused on adoption and training rather than navigating the learning curve of the setting up phase.
More Choice:
Selecting from a pool of HRIS implementation partners allows you to select a partner that you are comfortable working with. This personal chemistry between the internal team and the outsourced team members is crucial to meeting project deadlines, translating business requirements and aiding in knowledge transfer.
Immediate Credibility:
A credible HRIS partner with in-depth knowledge of the HRIS space and best practice can accelerate buy in from internal stakeholders. Usually this works best when the partner has a broad understanding of processes and issues pertinent to particular stakeholders. This also helps to facilitate take up of the system among users.
Committed Preferred Supplier:
A third party HRIS implementation partner that is committed to the system (demonstrated by participating at the provider's conferences, receiving partner certification, recognition or awards, and collaboration with their sales team) has an in-depth understanding of the system's capabilities and limitations which is a beneficial in getting the most of a system.
Partnering Pitfalls to Avoid
However, it is also worth noting the potential pitfalls of outsourcing to a third party and these tend to become an issue when the following issues are not addressed:
- Accountability - prefer a single company that is responsible for the deliverables of all work being proposed.
- Execution - partner's inability to execute on the deliverables based on lack of experience, training, and overall calibre of consultant(s).
- Partner's Viability - partner's financial stability, leadership and proven ability to deliver results.
- Project Ownership - "finger-pointing". Problems resulting in the partner blaming the HRIS sales team, while the sales team blames the consulting team.