Compensation and Benefits Software Education and Training

Learning all you can about compensation planning software before and after the sale
By Trisha Schulz With many different choices when it comes to compensation and benefits software, how do you choose? Educating yourself on the available programs is a good place to start. One of the factors going into your decision should include training and ongoing support after the sale, too.
 

When it comes to compensation and benefits software education and training, many software providers offer implementation training and support. Other, independent companies can also provide training. But as a human resources manager, you most likely will have to take it upon yourself to learn all you can by reading articles and reviews of software packages, as well as finding those individual opportunities for further knowledge on compensation and benefits issues.

Consider the following information:

1. Not only will you want to confirm compensation management systems training for a new system but also ongoing support for problems that arise. What is the typical wait-time for support questions and how are they handled?

2. If you're signing on for training with an independent company, look for compensation and benefit programs education that can be customized to fit your needs.

3. Get concentrated benefits management software training in a short amount of time for a smooth, efficient transition.

Read more about benefits software options and consider reviews

The more you know about your options, the better prepared you can be to make an informed decision. Narrow your search down to the top three to five choices. Then you can more efficiently research system capabilities, costs and other factors.
Try: Read a SAGE Publications guide to compensation and benefits software by clicking on "full-text article" on the right-hand side. You'll need to register. Check out the 401(k) design checklist from the 401(k) Center for Employers so that you can match your program with an appropriate software package.

Learn more about compensation management software by downloading a free trial

Are you one of those people who learn better the hands-on way? Consider downloading a free trial of software that you are considering. That way you can experience it yourself and find out how appropriate it is for your staff and operation. You'll also get an idea of how different the system is and how much training your staff may need to get up to speed.
Try: Download a free trial of SuccessFactors' performance review software or Apex Business Software.

Receive company support and training on compensation software

Once you purchase software, training usually comes as a package deal. Make sure you feel comfortable with the training that will be provided and the method used so you can get the most benefit.
Try: Check out the standard and advanced curriculum offered by Varicent Software through two- and three-day (or longer) workshops. Or consider Halogen Software's implementation training as well as additional support after your system is up and running.

• Troubleshoot how the benefits software applications you use will interact with each other when choosing any new software and setting up proper training.