Should Your Small Business Use an HRIS to manage people operations?
Managing people operations without the right tools can be time-consuming and error-prone. As small and mid-sized businesses grow, spreadsheets and manual processes often can’t keep up. That’s where a Human Resource Information System (HRIS) can transform how you manage your team. The right HRIS brings structure, saves time, and supports a more connected and compliant workforce, even across state lines or with a remote work force.
What Is an HRIS?
An HRIS is a software platform that centralizes and automates core HR functions. Depending on the platform, this can include:
Employee onboarding
Benefits administration
Time tracking and PTO
Payroll integration
Performance reviews
Compensation tracking
Compliance management
Org charts and personnel records
Tools like Gusto, BambooHR, and Rippling, are popular options for small to mid-sized businesses.
Benefits of Using an HRIS
Time Savings: Reduce manual data entry and automate tasks like onboarding paperwork and PTO tracking.
Centralized Data: Keep employee records organized, accessible, and secure.
Better Compliance: Built-in guardrails for labor laws, documentation, and reporting.
Improved Employee Experience: Self-service portals for pay stubs, time off, and benefit access.
Scalable Infrastructure: As your team grows, your HR system doesn’t need to be rebuilt.
Potential Challenges to Consider
Some platforms are too complex (or costly) for very small teams.
Not all HRIS tools integrate easily with your existing payroll or accounting systems.
Implementation takes time, training, and a clear plan.
Without proper setup, reporting and permissions can become messy or inaccurate.
That’s why choosing the right platform and tailoring it to your needs is critical.
A Step-by-Step Guide to HRIS Implementation
The Hazel Group helps clients assess, implement, and optimize HRIS platforms across all stages of growth. Here’s how we approach the process:
Step 1: Assess Company Size and Needs
We evaluate your current people processes, team size, and growth plans. A 10-person company doesn’t need what a 75-person company does—but it may need more than you think.
Step 2: Define Key Requirements
We identify your must-haves, such as time tracking, remote onboarding, or performance reviews. This narrows the search to platforms that best match your goals.
Step 3: Select the Right HRIS Tool
Based on budget, integrations, and functionality, we recommend one or more systems that fit your stage of business. For very small teams, we help build affordable, lightweight solutions.
Step 4: Set Up and Customize the Platform
We configure fields, permissions, workflows, and templates tailored to your structure. We also map out integrations with tools like Gusto or QuickBooks if needed.
Step 5: Train and Roll Out
We provide team training, admin coaching, and a rollout plan so everyone knows how to use the new system confidently.
Step 6: Ongoing Support and Optimization
We help monitor usage, identify new needs, and make updates as your team grows or new features become available.
How The Hazel Group Supports HRIS Implementation
Whether you’re implementing your first HR platform or upgrading to something more robust, we tailor every system to your unique needs. Our services include:
HRIS needs assessment and selection support
Custom build-outs and documentation
Workflow design and automation
Employee onboarding and admin training
Integration with payroll and accounting
Ongoing system support or project-based guidance
We help small businesses implement cost-effective HR software and advise growing companies on more advanced HR tech stacks.
The right HR system saves time, improves compliance, and supports a thriving team. Schedule a 30-minute consultation with The Hazel Group to find and implement the best HRIS solution for your business, no matter your size.
