Checking References on HR systems in which you are interested is always a good idea. If an HR software company can’t provide references, or a reference provides a poor opinion of the HR software, that is certainly a red flag. Neither is likely to occur. HRIS software companies are only going to provide references who are happy with their particular HR system. They will usually call the client before providing their name as a reference to ensure they are willing to be a reference and that they are happy with their Human Resource software. The question then becomes, "How valuable are references if the HR software companies are handpicking them?" Here are a couple of tips to get the most out checking references when comparing HR systems.

Checking HRIS References Tip #1

Be as specific as possible with regard to which type of company from which you want a reference. This makes it less likely for the HRIS vendor to cherry pick the reference for you. It’s also important to note how a company in your industry has used the HR system to meet their needs. Who knows…. you might even be able to share tips with them going forward.

Checking HRIS References Tip #2

Search online to find out who is using the HR system and cold call them for a reference. The easiest way to do this is to go to Monster.com and type the name of the HR system in the keyword search. You will be presented with a list of companies who are looking for someone with experience with that HR system. If you are willing to do the work, pick out five and ask them what they think of the HR system. If you are going to try this approach, be sure to call a number of users since even the best HR systems have unhappy customers. Sometimes it’s not the companies fault, sometimes it’s the users fault, and sometimes it’s just Monday.

Checking HRIS References Tip #3

The ease of use and functionality of the HR software you choose are both the most important considerations. These can be determined by simply effectively reviewing, comparing and testing the HRIS products you are considering. Where I would use the references is to get an idea on support and problems during setup or potential bugs in the HR product. Ask the reference how often they call support and how long they are typically on hold. How helpful are the tech support people? Are they usually able to solve your HRIS problem? You also need to ask if there are any important problems or software defects of which you should be aware. Write out your questions before you call or email to make sure you don’t miss anything.

Checking HRIS References Tip #4

Make sure to not only ask for references on the HR software but ensure you have references on whoever is performing your HRIS system install. I would make sure that the person in charge of the implementation has, at the very least, ten HRIS installs of the exact HR software product you are selecting. Depending on the industry, industry experience may be needed, as well.

Overall, the message I am trying to present is that hand picked vendor references are only a small part of the steps necessary to successfully select an HRIS software application. By following the steps outlined above, I believe you can maximize the value of the references you contact.