Best Human Resources Software (Updated for April 2025) (2025)

We looked for functionalities that streamline essential HR processes, from recruiting and payroll to performance reviews and learning management. In addition to checking online user reviews, we researched the customization features, compliance tools, reporting, third-party software integrations, and customer support options offered. If available, we leveraged free trials and demos to assess each software’s functionality and ease of use.

I also added my expert rating to each criterion, where I considered the effectiveness of that area or feature. Then, I narrowed down the list to my top five recommendations.

Below is the breakdown of the evaluation criteria.

HRIS and reporting: 15%

This section covers each platform’s human resources information system (HRIS) and analytics features, which account for 15% of the total score. I rated systems higher if their HR database is built around a centralized employee record rather than payroll data. I also gave extra points to software with customizable dashboards and reports.

Payroll and benefits: 15%

Payroll and benefits are among the most critical HR functions, tied with the HRIS and reporting criterion, at 15% of each platform’s total score. I looked at whether platforms offer built-in payroll and benefits modules, automated tax filings, and employee benefits self-enrollment features. I also ranked platforms higher based on their compliance support and tools that improve the employee experience, such as financial wellness apps.

Pricing: 13%

Pricing accounts for 13% of the weighted score. Software with transparent pricing, scalable tiers, discounts, no long-term contracts, and free trials received the highest scores. I also considered each platform’s “value for money,” which determines whether the number of features in each price tier or module is competitive with other vendors in the space.

Platform and interface: 13%

How easy is the platform to use? Can I create my own automations? Can I control employee access and permissions? And will employees’ data be safe? This category covers each solution’s intrinsic features and offerings, including how well it integrates with your current tech stack. This category represents 13% of the platform’s total score.

Workforce management: 12%

The workforce management criterion evaluates features to control and monitor when, where, and how your staff work. Comprising 12% of their total score, I evaluated whether each platform offered native time-tracking, scheduling, and leave management modules. The best platforms also include approval workflows, automations, absence policy management, and built-in compliance controls for laws like the FMLA and FLSA.

Talent acquisition: 11%

The criterion evaluates the recruitment capabilities of each HR system, including candidate sourcing, screening, and interview management tools. I also considered additional capabilities like automated resume parsing and ATS pipeline movement. I also gave extra points to platforms with AI and tools to engage candidates. Talent acquisition makes up 11% of the total score.

Employee relations: 11%

At 11% of the overall score, this criterion assesses each software’s performance management, learning management, and employee engagement capabilities. Platforms with native modules for each scored highest, especially those with advanced features like customizable training courses, goal-tracking, and peer-to-peer recognition options. My expert score also considered platforms with unique employee experience tools, like newsfeeds, community forums, and chat functions.

Support: 5%

This examines the various technical support options available to users, such as live chat, phone, and email assistance. The platforms with comprehensive FAQs and knowledge bases also ranked higher. Finally, I considered whether platforms offer business services, like HR outsourcing, to offload administrative tasks. Support makes up 5% of the total score.

User reviews: 5%

User reviews from third-party software platforms like Capterra, G2, and TrustRadius accounted for 5% of the software’s overall score. I focused on software that received at least 3.5 out of 5 stars on these sites. Because users have real-world experience with each platform, they played a significant role in narrowing down my list of top products to compare.