Finding a payroll system that will grow with your business
When choosing the right payroll system, the size of your business makes all the difference. How can you find one that fits? Brought to you by iPayroll.
Selecting the right payroll software is crucial for businesses of all sizes. Small businesses often need simplicity and affordability, while larger firms may require a range of features to support their payroll process.
Elaine Kirk, national sales manager at iPayroll, says the needs of small business can differ a lot due to the complexity and scale of operations. Payroll needs to be individually evaluated to ensure the correct software is used.
“Smaller businesses generally look for payroll software that simplifies processes such as PAYE calculations, IR filing, leave management, time tracking and employee record keeping, without unnecessary and complex features.”
Larger organisations require software with advanced capabilities, with detailed reporting, the ability to record cost centres, and to seamlessly integrate with HR and accounting systems.
Look for scalability
As companies expand, their payroll needs may become more complex.
“Choosing software that ensures scalability and compliance is key to maintaining efficiency,” says Kirk. “For example, we have many customers who operate seasonal businesses involved in horticulture, viticulture or providing staff for festivals, who need to adjust their workforce size based on their demand. These businesses need solutions that allow them to easily scale their workforce up or down.”
For larger businesses with dedicated payroll departments, the chosen software should offer advanced features such as group reporting, multiple user access and seamless integration with other systems.
Making sure help is at hand
Having access to training and immediate support by phone is also an important consideration.
“For small businesses, it’s often the owner handling payroll which can be stressful – especially if they lack payroll experience,” says Kirk.
“Delays in paying employees can lead to frustration and absenteeism. That’s why having immediate phone support to resolve potential issues is crucial. Many other payroll solutions rely on ticketing systems or require navigating through help articles which can be time-consuming and frustrating,” she explains.
Record management
Regardless of business size, record keeping is essential.
“Smaller businesses often face challenges with record keeping, so having accurate records that can be easily retrieved is essential. With iPayroll, you can securely and conveniently upload, store and access HR documents,” says Kirk.
Leave management is another key consideration. Without an easy-to-use system, businesses may risk overpaying due to poor record keeping.
“IPayroll simplifies this process by allowing employees to apply for leave, managers to approve it and everything to be automatically recorded in the appropriate pay run, reducing the chance of errors,” she says.
