Choosing the right HR software can feel overwhelming—especially with so many platforms promising to automate, streamline, and “transform” your people processes. But what actually matters when you’re evaluating your options?

This blog breaks down the top features to look for in HR software, helping you focus on what will truly move the needle for your organisation.


1. Employee Records Management

Every HR platform should offer centralised, secure storage of employee information. You should be able to access and update records easily, with audit trails and version control.

Look for: customisable fields, role-based access, and digital document storage.


2. Onboarding and Offboarding Workflows

Modern HR software should support a smooth, automated onboarding experiencefrom collecting employee documents to issuing welcome packs and provisioning tools.

Look for: checklist automation, e-signatures, and integration with email/calendar tools.


3. Payroll & Leave Management

An integrated payroll system—or strong payroll integrations—is a must. HR software should also support leave balances, requests, and approvals.

Look for: award interpretation, STP compliance (in Australia), and mobile leave requests.


4. Performance Management

You need tools that support goal setting, feedback cycles, and reviewsnot just once a year but as part of continuous improvement.

Look for: real-time feedback, goal alignment dashboards, and review templates.


5. Learning & Development (L&D)

Help employees grow with training programs, skill tracking, and access to development resources.

Look for: training matrix, course assignment, and completion tracking.


6. Employee Self-Service

Give your employees the power to update their details, access payslips, request leave, and view policies without contacting HR.

Look for: intuitive interfaces, mobile access, and secure login options.


7. Compliance & Reporting

Good HR software helps you stay on top of compliance by automating alerts and simplifying reporting obligations.

Look for: pre-built reports, compliance dashboards, and export tools.


8. Analytics & Dashboards

Data should drive decisions. A quality HR platform offers real-time insights into headcount, turnover, diversity, and more.

Look for: workforce metrics, visual dashboards, and exportable reports.


9. Integration Capabilities

Your HR system should work with existing tools like payroll, ERP, accounting software, and time tracking tools.

Look for: open APIs, integration libraries, and SSO (Single Sign-On) compatibility.


10. Scalability & Customisation

Can the software grow with you? The right system should support modular features and custom workflows as your business evolves.

Look for: configurable forms, user roles, and workflow builders.


Final Thoughts

Choosing HR software isn’t about chasing the flashiest features—it’s about aligning technology with your HR strategy, business needs, and employee expectations.

Use this checklist to guide your next purchase decision and avoid being stuck with a system that can’t scale with you.

At EmployeeConnect, we build flexible, integrated HR platforms designed for modern businesses. Whether you’re after core HR functionality or strategic workforce tools, we can tailor a solution that works for you.

For more relevant posts:

  1. Redefining HR Decision Making: HR Dashboards
  2. Strategic Decisions With HR Dashboards
  3. The Importance of an Off Boarding Checklist
  4. Key Features to Look for in an HRIS Solution