Top 10 Best HR Analytics Software - Free & Paid

HR analytics software empowers businesses with valuable insights to enhance employee retention, recruitment, and training. It helps make informed decisions to optimize your workforce strategies, ultimately leading to improved organizational outcomes.

Companies have long analyzed data to track revenue, identify growth opportunities, and enhance user engagement. However, it's equally important to monitor and enhance the satisfaction, performance, and engagement of the individuals who keep the company running.

As Betsy Summers, a principal analyst at Forrester specializing in human capital management, put it, "Understanding your people data is an investment every company should make, as factors like employee engagement, attrition rates, skill development, wellness, and productivity are critical business considerations for sustainable growth."

Gathering essential employee insights requires the use of an HR analytics tool. However, the key question remains: which HR people analytics software best suits your unique requirements?

In this article, we will explore the 10 best HR analytics software solutions to help you make informed decisions that can effectively influence your workforce and propel organizational growth.

What is HR analytics software?

HR analytics tools are data analytics tools that assist HR professionals in collecting, analyzing, and interpreting data related to various aspects of their workforce. 

This software leverages data-driven insights to enable HR teams to make informed decisions, improve HR processes, and ultimately enhance the overall performance and productivity of an organization's employees.

At its core, HR people analytics software allows HR departments to gather data on a wide range of HR-related metrics, such as employee recruitment and retention, performance evaluations, employee engagement, training and development, and workforce demographics.

It then employs advanced analytics and reporting capabilities to transform this raw data into actionable information.

5 Key Features of HR Analytics Software

Real-time HR analytics

The most crucial feature of an HR data analytic tool is its ability to provide real-time data and analytics.

This means HR teams can access up-to-the-minute information on various workforce metrics, such as employee performance, attendance, and engagement.

Real-time analytics allow for proactive decision-making, helping organizations respond swiftly to emerging trends and issues.

Actionable insights

HR analytics technique software doesn't just present data; it translates complex information into actionable insights. 

These insights empower HR professionals to identify areas for improvement, implement strategic changes, and measure the impact of their decisions.

By providing actionable recommendations, the software guides HR teams toward making data-driven choices that benefit the organization.

Intuitive data

Many HR analytics tools incorporate advanced visualizations, such as charts, graphs, and interactive dashboards. 

Visual representations of data make it easier for users to comprehend complex information quickly. 

This visual technology enhances data interpretation and aids in the communication of key findings to stakeholders, including senior management.

Cloud-based

The majority of modern HR analytics software solutions are cloud-based, offering several advantages. 

Cloud-based platforms ensure accessibility from anywhere, promote collaboration among team members, and eliminate the need for complex on-premises infrastructure.

Additionally, they often receive regular updates and improvements, ensuring users have access to the latest features and security enhancements.

Friendly UI and UX

User interface (UI) and user experience (UX) design are crucial aspects of data analytics software. 

An intuitive and user-friendly interface ensures that HR professionals, regardless of their technical background, can navigate the software effortlessly. 

Intuitive design accelerates the learning curve and promotes efficient usage, allowing HR teams to focus on extracting insights rather than struggling with the software itself.

Top 10 Best HR Analytics Tools

Best HR analytics software: Feature comparison table.

More details on each HR tool are below.

1. Grove HR

Grove HR is a versatile HR analysis software designed to empower organizations with data-driven insights to optimize their human resources strategies.

By offering a range of robust features, Grove HR enables HR professionals and decision-makers to make informed choices, improve employee engagement, and enhance overall organizational performance through comprehensive data analysis.

Pricing:

• Free HR system for startups and small companies with under 50 employees
• Then, it starts at $3 per month for each additional employee 

Highlight features:

• Customizable HR Analytics: Grove HR provides customizable analytics and reporting tools, allowing users to tailor their data analysis to specific HR metrics relevant to their organization.
• Real-time Data: The software offers real-time data updates, enabling HR teams to access the most current information about their workforce. This real-time feature is invaluable for tracking employee performance, engagement, and other critical HR metrics.
• Visual Data Representation: The software employs visual data representation tools, such as charts, graphs, and dashboards, to present complex HR data in a user-friendly and easily understandable format. This visual approach enhances data interpretation and communication.
• Employee Engagement Insights: Grove HR focuses on employee engagement analysis, providing valuable insights into employee tenure and turnover rates. This feature assists organizations in creating strategies to improve workplace engagement.

Pros:

• Affordable Pricing: Grove HR offers free and competitive paid plans suitable for businesses of all sizes.
• User-Friendly Interface: The intuitive user interface makes it easy for HR professionals and employees to navigate the system.
• Scalability: The software can accommodate the needs of growing organizations, making it a suitable choice for startups and expanding companies.
• Comprehensive HR Features: Grove HR covers a wide range of HR functions, from recruitment to performance management, streamlining HR operations.

Cons:

• Limited Advanced HR Analytics: While Grove HR offers HR analytics, it may not provide the same depth of advanced analytics as some specialized HR analytics tools.
• Custom report: The lack of custom report functionality is a drawback for users who require tailored insights and data representations to meet their specific needs and preferences.

2. Excel

When it comes to data analytics tools, we can’t forget the basics.

Microsoft Excel is a versatile spreadsheet software that is commonly used for various data analysis tasks, including HR analysis. 

While Excel is not a dedicated HR analysis software, its flexibility and powerful functionality make it a popular choice for professionals seeking to analyze workforce data, track HR metrics, and generate reports. 

Pricing:

• $159.99 to purchase Excel alone
• However, it can considered free as it’s already pre-installed on office computers.

Highlight features:

• Data Import and Manipulation: Excel allows users to import data from various sources, including HRIS (Human Resources Information Systems) and other databases. Once data is imported, users can manipulate and organize it using a wide range of functions and formulas.
• Customizable Reports: HR professionals can create customized reports and dashboards tailored to their specific needs. Excel offers extensive charting and graphing options to visualize HR metrics such as turnover rates, employee performance, and compensation data.
• Data Analysis Tools: Excel provides a suite of data analysis tools, including pivot tables, which enable users to summarize and analyze large datasets quickly. This is especially useful for HR professionals dealing with extensive employee data.
• Scenario Analysis: Excel allows HR teams to conduct "what-if" scenarios and sensitivity analysis. For instance, they can assess the impact of different compensation structures or workforce planning strategies on the organization.
• Data Validation and Auditing: Excel offers features for data validation and auditing, helping to ensure data accuracy and integrity. This is critical for HR data, which often includes sensitive information.

Pros:

• Widespread Availability: Excel is widely available and used in many organizations, reducing the need for additional software purchases.
• Flexibility: Excel's flexibility allows HR professionals to adapt it to various HR analysis needs, from tracking employee data to creating complex models.
• Customization: Users can create tailored reports and dashboards, making it easy to focus on specific HR metrics and KPIs.
• Data Manipulation: Excel provides powerful data manipulation tools, enabling HR professionals to clean, transform, and analyze data efficiently.

Cons:

• Limited Automation: While Excel is highly flexible, it may require manual data entry and updates, which can be time-consuming and error-prone.
• Version Control: Managing Excel files across multiple users can lead to version control issues, potentially causing discrepancies in HR data.
• Lack of Advanced Analytics: Excel lacks advanced predictive analytics and machine learning capabilities often found in dedicated HR analysis software.
• Data Security: Security concerns may arise when handling sensitive HR data in Excel, as it lacks some of the encryption and access control features of dedicated HR systems.

3. BambooHR

BambooHR is a leading cloud-based human resources software platform that offers a range of tools for HR professionals, including strong HR analytics capabilities.

Designed to streamline HR processes and empower data-driven decision-making, BambooHR serves as an essential tool for organizations of all sizes.

Pricing:

• The basic plan starts at $99 monthly for 12 employees and an extra $8.25 per month for each additional employee.
• Using the payroll feature costs an extra $75 per month for 10 employees and $4.25 per month for each additional employee.
• Using performance management and time tracking features costs an extra $4.25 and $3.00 per employee per month.

Highlight features:

• Time Tracking: The platform offers time tracking tools for monitoring attendance, paid time off (PTO), and overtime, simplifying payroll processing.
• Customizable Reports: BambooHR provides a range of customizable reports and analytics to help you gain insights into your workforce, such as turnover rates and compensation analysis.
• Employee Records Management: Centralize employee records, including contracts, performance evaluations, and training certificates.

Pros:

• Mobile Access: Mobile apps enable employees and managers to access HR information and perform tasks on the go.
• Integration Capabilities: BambooHR integrates with various third-party apps and tools, enhancing its functionality.

Cons:

• Cost: While transparent, BambooHR's pricing can become relatively expensive as your workforce expands.
• Limited Advanced Features: Some advanced HR features, such as workforce planning and advanced analytics, may be lacking compared to more specialized HR software.

4. Rippling

Rippling provides comprehensive HR analysis capabilities and employee management features designed to simplify and automate various HR and IT tasks for businesses of all sizes. 

It aims to streamline HR processes, improve compliance, and provide valuable insights into workforce data. It is particularly well-suited for organizations looking to integrate HR, IT, and employee management  into a single platform.

Pricing:

• Starts at $8 a month per employee for the core HR plan 

Highlight features:

• Prebuilt and Custom Reports: Offer ready-to-use reports and allow you to customize your own reports to fit your needs easily.
• Data Aggregation: Make powerful calculations based on any field by simply grouping a report according to variables.
• Point-in-time Report: Combine present and past data on a single graph, enabling you to report on current information while also visualizing long-term trends.

Pros:

• Centralized Employee Database: Automatic employee profile updates for status, roles, and departments make it easier to manage and track employee benefits in real-time.
• Sturdy Security: Rippling is equipped with RPass, an integrated password manager that generates strong passwords, enables two-factor authentication, and ensures ongoing cybersecurity compliance. 

Cons:

• Cost: The pricing structure can be complex, and costs can add up quickly if your organization requires multiple modules.
• Advanced Features: Some advanced features and integrations are missing which can be limiting for larger companies.

5. ADP Workforce Now

ADP Workforce Now is a comprehensive human resources and payroll management software designed to meet the needs of medium to large-sized businesses.

With a strong reputation in the HR industry, ADP Workforce Now is known for its scalability and impressive capabilities.

Pricing:

• Starts at $15-24 per employee per month

Highlight features:

• Customized Reports: Craft custom reports to meet specific requirements and seamlessly convert them into insightful charts and graphs to uncover trends.
• AI-Enhanced Insights: Access AI-powered insights in real-time, coupled with a diverse set of standardized reports to boost information speed and quality.
• Benchmark Analysis: Get decision-quality data and compare your organization to the broader market, aiding in refining retention and compensation strategies.

Pros:

• Integration Capabilities: It can integrate with other HR and business software, enhancing its functionality.
• Strong Security: The platform is on a private cloud that is fully secure and impervious to hacker infiltration.

Cons:

• Cost: ADP Workforce Now can be relatively expensive, especially for small businesses or those with limited HR needs.
• Error Messages: When a problem arises, it lacks clear signals about the issue, creating difficulties in both pinpointing and resolving the problem.

6. DreamTeam

DreamTeam is a comprehensive HR analysis software that empowers organizations to make data-driven decisions regarding their workforce.

It provides valuable insights into various HR metrics and helps businesses enhance their HR processes for improved performance.

Pricing:

• Range from a few hundred to several thousand dollars per year, depending on customization and usage needs

Highlight features:

• Data Analytics: DreamTeam excels in HR data analytics, offering robust tools to collect, organize, and analyze HR data. It can generate reports on employee performance, engagement, turnover, etc.
• Employee Engagement: DreamTeam offers tools to measure and improve employee engagement, including surveys, feedback mechanisms, and performance evaluation modules.
• Recruitment Optimization: It streamlines the recruitment process by analyzing candidate profiles and matching them with job requirements, reducing time-to-hire and improving the quality of hires.

Pros:

• Data-Driven Insights: DreamTeam enables HR professionals to make informed decisions by providing deep insights into workforce metrics.
• Predictive Capabilities: The software's predictive analytics can help organizations stay ahead of HR challenges.

Cons:

• Cost: Depending on the organization's size and needs, the pricing can be relatively high for smaller businesses.
• Integration: While it offers various features, seamless integration with other HR tools and systems may require additional setup.

7. Tableau

Tableau is a potent data visualization and analytics software that is widely used for HR analysis. 

It allows HR professionals to transform complex HR data into visual, interactive dashboards and reports, making it easier to gain insights and make data-driven decisions.

Pricing:

• Starts at $15 per employee per month

Highlight features:

• Data Visualization: Tableau excels in creating interactive HR dashboards and reports, allowing users to explore data through charts, graphs, and maps.
• Data Connectivity: It can connect to a wide range of data sources, including HRIS (Human Resources Information Systems) databases, spreadsheets, and cloud-based data repositories.
• Collaboration: Tableau Server and Tableau Online enable HR teams to collaborate by sharing and accessing reports and dashboards securely.

Pros:

• Ease of Use: Tableau's intuitive drag-and-drop interface makes it accessible to users with varying levels of technical expertise.
• Powerful Data Visualization: It excels in creating visually appealing and interactive HR dashboards that are easy to understand.

Cons:

• Cost: Tableau's pricing can be relatively high, especially for smaller businesses or individual users.
• Data Preparation: Data preparation can be time-consuming, particularly when dealing with complex HR data sources.

8. Visier

Visier is an advanced HR analysis software designed to help organizations make data-driven decisions related to their workforce.

It leverages data analytics and insights to provide HR professionals with valuable information for optimizing HR strategies and improving employee performance.

Pricing:

• Vary based on the number of users, data sources, and the level of customization required.
• Must contact directly for a quote

Highlight features:

• Predictive Employee Turnover: Enhance employee understanding with AI-driven analytics and expert insights, identifying potential departures and their root causes.
• Custom Reporting: It offers customizable reporting and dashboard creation, allowing HR professionals to tailor reports to their specific needs.
• Benchmarking: Visier provides benchmarking capabilities to compare an organization's HR metrics with industry standards and competitors.

Pros:

• Deep Analytics: Visier excels in providing comprehensive insights into HR data, helping organizations make strategic decisions.
• Data Integration: Visier's ability to integrate with multiple sources simplifies data consolidation and analysis.

Cons:

• Pricing Complexity: The customized pricing model can make it challenging to estimate costs, especially for smaller businesses.
• Integration Challenges: Integrating Visier with existing HR systems may require additional configuration and support.

9. Lattice

Lattice is a modern HR analysis software designed to help organizations manage their human resources effectively.

It offers a comprehensive suite of tools to streamline HR processes, gather insights, and foster employee engagement and performance.

Pricing:

• Starts at $4 per employee per month
• Offers a free trial period

Highlight features:

• DEIB Insights: Empower confident DEIB (diversity, equity, inclusion, and belonging) decisions with impactful insights for fostering a happier, healthier, and more productive workplace environment.
• Sentiment Analysis: Lattice provides AI-powered insights for a deep understanding of employee sentiment.
• Manager Insights: Equip managers with real-time analytics and alerts for customized support and development opportunities for their team members.

Pros:

• Performance Metrics: Lattice's analytics and reporting tools provide valuable insights into workforce performance and HR trends.
• Customization: It often allows for customization to adapt to an organization's unique HR processes and goals.

Cons:

• Complexity: Some users may find certain advanced features require a learning curve.
• Integration: Integrating Lattice with other HR systems may require additional effort and support.

10. Empuls

Empuls is a comprehensive HR analysis software designed to foster employee engagement and enhance overall workforce management. 

It provides organizations with a platform for analyzing employee engagement data, gathering insights, and making informed decisions to improve employee satisfaction, productivity, and organizational performance. 

Pricing:

• $3 a month per employee for enhanced employee survey feature
• $1 a month per employee for company culture-building features

Highlight features:

• Culture Analytics: Provides valuable insights on value adoption within your workforce and gathers employee feedback on your workplace culture.
• Engagement Analytics: Gain valuable insights into your Employee Net Promoter Score (eNPS) to assess employee loyalty and the distribution of promoters, passives, and detractors within your workforce.
• Recognition Analytics: Deep dive into trends to improve your employee recognition program and foster a culture of appreciation.

Pros:

• Employee Engagement Focus: Empuls is primarily geared toward enhancing employee engagement, making it a valuable tool for organizations prioritizing workforce satisfaction and productivity
• Real-time Data: Access to real-time data ensures HR professionals are equipped to respond promptly to changing HR dynamics and challenges.

Cons:

• Limited Features: While it excels in employee engagement analysis, its HR analytics functions are limited compared to dedicated HR analysis software.
• Integration: Integration capabilities with other HR systems and software are limited, potentially requiring additional tools for comprehensive HR analytics.

Conclusion

As HR continues to play a pivotal role in shaping the modern workforce, these best HR analytics software are indispensable assets for achieving HR excellence and delivering value to businesses.

Choose wisely, and embark on a data-driven journey towards HR success.