HR tech vs. work tech

In today's digital age, technology is an integral part of our professional lives. From streamlining human resources (HR) processes to enhancing employee productivity, technology has revolutionized the way we work. On any given day, employers and their teams may find themselves interacting with one of two distinct categories of technology: HR tech and work tech.

In this article, we'll explore the differences and similarities between them.

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What is HR tech?

HR tech refers to technology that is used to automate and optimize human resource management processes. It encompasses a wide range of technology solutions designed to handle time-consuming tasks. These tasks include recruiting, employee onboarding, employee engagement, employee retention, performance management, and payroll.

HR tech solutions aim to streamline these processes, reduce manual work, and enhance the overall efficiency of HR departments.

Some popular HR tech tools and software include:

• Applicant tracking systems (ATS) such as BambooHR, BreezyHR, and Rippling. ATS handles the recruiting and hiring process. This includes posting jobs, accepting applications, and sending interview invitations to potential candidates.
• Human capital management (HCM) systems like ADP, Rippling, and UKG Pro. HCM systems often include features such as workforce planning, talent management, and succession planning.
• Performance management systems like Namely, Trakstar, and Workday. This type of software is used to track and measure employee performance in a consistent manner.
• Human resource information (HRIS) systems like Paycor, Monday.com, and Rippling. HRIS automates HR functions and administrative tasks.
• Learning management systems (LMS) like TalentLMS, Absorb, and Moodle. Organizations use LMS to provide training programs for employees.
• Employee payroll software like Paychex, Paycor, and Gusto. They manage, organize, and automate employee payments.
• Employee engagement platforms such as Leapsome, Bonusly, and Culture Amp. These tools help to increase employee job satisfaction and retain talented workers.
• Employee benefits administration software like PeopleKeep.

These technologies not only save time and resources but also provide valuable insights through data analysis, helping HR professionals make data-driven decisions. Data gathered by the Society for Human Resource Management¹ (SHRM) shows organizations that use HR tech outperform those that don’t.

What is work tech?

Work tech focuses on improving productivity and collaboration within the workplace. It includes tools and software that improve the employee experience. With the right work tech, employees can work more efficiently, communicate effectively, and manage their tasks in a streamlined manner. Work tech solutions aim to enhance overall workflow and create a productive workforce.

Some popular types of work tech include:

• Project management software such as Asana, Monday, Trello, and AirTable. These tools can improve project planning and execution. They also promote better collaboration within teams.
• Video conferencing software like Zoom, Microsoft Teams, and Google Meet. These tools are essential for remote employees.
• Employee communication tools like Slack.
• File-sharing software such as Google Drive and Dropbox.
• OKR software such as Profit.co, Inspire, and Leapsome. These tools help businesses set, communicate, track, and measure objectives and key results.
• Rewards and recognition platforms. These platforms help you recognize and reward employees for their hard work. You can also acknowledge your employee's achievements with customized stipends through software like WorkPerks. These rewards help employees feel valued and appreciated at your organization.

These technologies facilitate seamless communication,task allocation, and tracking, resulting in increased employee satisfaction and productivity. They can also improve teamwork within your organization.

What are the differences between HR tech and work tech?

Understanding the difference between HR tech and work tech is crucial for organizations looking to harness the power of technology in their workplace. The main difference between HR tech and work tech lies in their primary objectives. HR tech primarily serves the needs of HR departments by automating HR processes and ensuring compliance, while work tech focuses on optimizing work processes and enhancing employee productivity.

HR tech is more focused on employee management, talent acquisition, and workforce planning, whereas work tech is geared toward improving task management, project collaboration, and communication within teams.

Another significant difference is the target audience. HR professionals, managers, and executives responsible for human resource management mostly use HR tech solutions. In contrast, work tech tools are utilized by employees at all levels, including individual contributors, team members, and project managers.

What are the similarities between HR tech and work tech?

Although HR tech and work tech have different objectives, they share some similarities. Both aim to leverage technology to streamline processes and enhance efficiency. They also provide valuable insights through data analysis, enabling informed decision-making.

Furthermore, both HR tech and work tech contribute to a positive workplace environment. By reducing manual work and automating day-to-day tasks, they allow employees to focus on more strategic and value-added activities, which leads to job satisfaction and overall employee engagement.

What other software can benefit your organization?

If you’re in charge of administering your organization’s employee benefits, you understand that managing them on your own can be a time-consuming task. PeopleKeep’s benefits administration software can make that process much easier. You can manage your benefits in minutes each month.

One of the most desired employee perks is a health benefit. If you’re looking to offer your first health benefit, or want to switch from your existing group health insurance policy, you can offer a health reimbursement arrangement (HRA).

HRA options include:

• The qualified small employer HRA (QSEHRA): A QSEHRA is a stand-alone HRA for small employers with 50 or fewer full-time equivalent(FTE) employees.
• The individual coverage HRA (ICHRA): An ICHRA is a flexible health benefit for businesses of any size. It enables employers to cover the cost of the individual insurance plans their employees choose.
• The group coverage HRA (GCHRA): A GCHRA can help employees with out-of-pocket expenses alongside group health insurance.

You can also enhance your benefits package by offering customizable lifestyle benefits through stipends.

According to our 2022 Employee Benefits Survey Report, 82% of employees say that the benefits package an employer offers is an important factor in whether or not applicants accept a job. With PeopleKeep's WorkPerks stipend administration platform, you can create custom allowances for your employee's wellness, remote work, professional development, and transportation costs.

Conclusion

The way we work and manage our workforce is evolving with the digital transformation. HR tech and work tech play crucial roles in your organization's overall success. While HR tech focuses on managing human resources efficiently, work tech aims to improve productivity and collaboration within the workplace. By leveraging the right combination of HR tech and work tech solutions, organizations can create a well-rounded and efficient work environment.

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