What Is HRIS? (Meaning & Examples)
HRIS (Human Resource Information System) is a software system used to store, manage, and process employee data and core HR information such as personal details, job records, attendance, and compliance documents.
This guide to HRIS explains the meaning of HRIS, what an HRIS does, common HRIS functions, examples of HRIS systems, and how HRIS differs from HRMS and HCM.
Who This Is For
- HR professionals managing employee data
- Organizations digitizing HR records
- SMBs and enterprises evaluating HR software
- Teams seeking centralized HR information systems
Summary: An HRIS centralizes employee information, improves data accuracy, supports compliance, and simplifies core HR administration.
Why Is HRIS Important?
- Centralizes employee data in one system
- Reduces manual record-keeping and errors
- Improves HR data accuracy and accessibility
- Supports compliance and audit readiness
- Saves time on administrative HR tasks
What Does an HRIS Do?
- Stores employee personal and job information
- Tracks attendance and basic leave records
- Manages employee documents and policies
- Supports compliance and reporting needs
- Provides HR data visibility and insights
Key Functions of an HRIS
- Employee data management: Profiles, roles, and employment history
- Attendance tracking: Basic work-hour records
- Document management: Contracts and HR files
- Compliance support: Recordkeeping and audits
- Reporting: HR metrics and summaries
Examples of HRIS
- Employee information databases
- HR record management systems
- Basic attendance and leave tracking systems
- Cloud-based HR data platforms
- Integrated HR information modules within HR software
HRIS vs HRMS vs HCM
- HRIS focuses on employee data storage and core HR records
- HRMS manages HR operations like payroll, attendance, and compliance
- HCM focuses on strategic workforce development and talent management
- HRIS is often a foundational component of HRMS and HCM
FAQs
What is HRIS?
HRIS stands for Human Resource Information System and is used to manage employee data and core HR records.
What does HRIS stand for?
HRIS stands for Human Resource Information System.
What are examples of HRIS?
Examples include employee databases, HR record management systems, and basic attendance tracking tools.
Is HRIS the same as HRMS?
No. HRIS focuses on data storage, while HRMS includes operational HR functions like payroll and compliance.
Why do companies use HRIS?
Companies use HRIS to centralize HR data, improve accuracy, and simplify HR administration.