Understanding the People Perspective in Cloud Payroll

Although there is a big focus on the technical side of what a switch to a Cloud payroll solution entail, the human side of the process should not be overlooked.

We recognize that there is power in not separating people, processes, and technology, and that an effective change management paradigm can help employees across the organization adopt the mindset needed to take advantage of the many benefits of moving to a Cloud payroll system.

At the beginning of the change journey, consider how it will impact the people involved:

• Is the payroll implementation project rooted in a wider strategic narrative within your organization? If not, why not? If yes, what outcomes are you seeking? These might range from compliance to empowerment. Document, align, socialize, and measure your responses.

• How many will be impacted by this change?

• Is this change going to be welcomed by all?

• With whom and where might resistance lie?

• What could cause any resistance?

• Which and how many policies will need to be amended to embed this change?

• What exceptions (within systems, processes, policies, or people) will need to be managed?

A proactive stance toward answering employees’ questions and concerns regarding a change to a Cloud payroll system will go a long way in enabling a smooth change, with your desired outcomes achieved. Effective People has adopted a highly successful change management framework, as shown below:

Effective People and Your Cloud Payroll Solution

Cloud HR and payroll software providers like SAP SuccessFactors have revolutionized people processes. Although the system is standardized and can be rolled out on a global scale, the Cloud is ever-evolving. This means that organizations need to embrace continuous improvement alongside efficiency and innovation. Often, a one-size-fits-all approach does not work.

With 20 years’ industry experience, and having partnered with SAP SuccessFactors since 2005, Effective People has market-leading expertise in helping clients understand the business impact of HR and payroll, so that they can focus on driving long-term, sustainable transformation. Our clients are typically category leaders in their industry, looking for ways to streamline people operations, gain actionable insights from people data, run payroll and workforce management with less effort and improve overall employee and manager experiences.

With an expanding team currently consisting of 250 specialists (the highest number of professionally certified SAP SuccessFactors specialists in North America, Europe, and the Middle East), Effective People supports organizations across industries and geographies with a global mindset and an ability to act locally.

SAP SuccessFactors EC Payroll is a comprehensive payroll solution which is localized to more than 47 countries. That means the solution comes with embedded knowledge about local best practices, legal requirements, and statutory reporting. This is of vital importance, as compliance is an issue that remains the same across all organizations, regardless of size. The solution automatically adheres to all legal requirements, so that you don’t have to invest time in keeping up-to-date.

Conclusion

There are many compelling reasons to move your payroll function to the Cloud. While payroll accuracy has always been essential, studies show that today’s younger workforce is more likely to make public complaints (with social media at their fingertips) and change organizations than previous generations. Talent acquisition and retention, employee engagement, and building up your company’s reputation are just some of the pertinent motivators to make the change to Cloud payroll. Greater accuracy and transparency, and the ability to have data on hand to drive future business growth, provide further compelling reasons.

Indeed, there are several complexities to consider and important decisions to be made prior to implementing a comprehensive Cloud-based payroll solution but working with a team of expert and trusted specialists will put you and your organization in a prime position to reap the rewards of what is fast becoming a must-have for business continuity and organizational success.

Of course, implementation is only the start of a new phase which will require a forward-looking strategy to create continued value and innovation. As you leverage technology to deliver the key organizational outcomes you seek, Effective People is the partner you need to support you on every step of this exciting journey. Contact us for more information.

If you want to learn more about supporting your organization’s transition to Cloud payroll, you can download our eBook: "Making the Case for Cloud Payroll with SAP SuccessFactors".