Best Free and Open Source HR Technology Solutions

Finding HR technology solutions can be a daunting (and expensive) process, a process that requires long hours of research and deep pockets. The most popular HR technology tools often offer more than what is necessary for non-business organizations, with advanced features relevant only to the most technically savvy users. Fortunately, there are a number of free and open source HR technology solutions. Some of these solutions are offered by vendors who eventually want to sell you their enterprise product, and others are maintained and operated by a community of developers who want to democratize HR technology.

In this article, we will examine free and open source HR technology solutions by first giving a brief overview of what to expect and also with brief fuzziness on the options currently available in the room. This is the most complete and up-to-date directory on the web.

Free HR technology tools

Free HR-Tech platforms refer to products that are commercially offered free of charge by the solution provider. These offerings are typically slimmed-down versions of the Expert or Enterprise Editions that provide basic functionality that allows users to back up their data. Commercially free HR technology tools typically offer less functionality overall than their open source counterparts, but are often a good way to get more than one free trial if it is a product you have already considered.

What is open source HR technology?

Open source HR technology software is software with source code that anyone can view, modify or extend. These tools are designed to be publicly available and are typically managed and maintained by organizations with a specific mission. The open source HR technology tools included in this list are surprisingly full-featured and offer an extensive list of capabilities for a wide range of users.

It is important to remember that some of the open source offerings listed in this list require some development skills, so they may not be ideal for your use case. We recommend that you read the FAQ for each tool to see how much coding is required to take advantage of the software. The open source tools usually do a good job explaining the requirements for using them on the download pages.

A1 eHR

A1 eHR is an open source application recommended for the staffing needs of medium-sized companies and businesses. The platform is a unified system that provides employees with a single recording system. It also provides embedded analytics, self-service for managers and employees, and an enhanced user experience. A1 ePayroll is also a fully web-based solution that provides global payroll functionality as well as employee self-service with regard to payroll.

Apptivo

Apptivo is a cloud solution that supports a range of business functions, such as sales force tracking, web helpdesk, project management and order management. The solution also tracks the entire sales process and helps users close more deals. Apptivo enables users to save time, reduce human error and provides a central database of information. This solution also offers Customer Resource Management (CRM) functionality that provides an overview of the sales pipeline.

Baraza HCM

Baraza HCM is an HR and talent management platform that provides both traditional HR core functions and key aspects of talent management. The solution provides convenient and simple selection and hiring processes. In addition, Baraza HCM can capture and store the biodata of applicants and employees. This solution is characterized by the fact that employees can apply for loans and advances. Baraza HCM also provides an HR applicant view, HR approval and monthly salary reports for employees.

IceHRM

IceHRM offers a user interface created with PHP and Java Script, which is provided via a modular architecture, making the platform easily adaptable and expandable. The solution includes holiday management, time and attendance tracking, employee information and document uploading, and the ability to download reports in .CSV format. Furthermore, IceHRM is scalable and offers private cloud solutions.

Jorani

Jorani is a holiday management system developed in PHP/MySQL, designed for small businesses. The platform offers simple workflows for requesting holidays and overtime, so it is more of a niche solution than some of the others listed. Jorani offers features such as the workflow for approving vacation requests, the workflow for approving overtime requests and vacation balance reports. The platform also allows users to easily configure complex organizations.

Odoo

Odoo offers an HR module that includes recruitment, cost management, performance assessment and time and attendance tracking. The solution is an all-in-one management platform that provides a set of business applications that form a complete suite of enterprise management applications. In addition to HR, Odoo also offers CRM, content management and accounting services.

OrangeHRM

OrangeHRM offers a web-based, user-friendly HR management tool for SMEs and companies that manage a large number of HR tasks. The platform offers the possibility to purchase support, customisation and hosted services and also provides modules for redesigning and aligning HR processes with business objectives. OrangeHRM features include management modules, an activity dashboard, applicant workflow, attendance management, audit trail, calendar management and document distribution.

Sentrifugo

Sentrifugo is an HR management tool that is aimed at small and medium-sized companies. The platform is flexible and easy to configure and offers an intuitive interface. The functions of Sentrifugo are also customizable to meet the needs of a company. Features of this solution include personnel modules, time management, vacation management, benefit management, self-service application, applicant tracking, benefits management, exit management and recruiting management.

SimpleHRM

SimpleHRM is an open source HR management tool for SMbs that allows users to manage employee information, travel, benefits, vacation and expense management. The platform is also equipped with tools for creating HR statistics reports and analyses that centralise all employee data and tracking. This creates a paperless environment. In addition to its free version, SimpleHRM offers a paid "Professional Edition" with additional modules and functions.

WaypointHR

WaypointHR is a cloud-hosted HR database platform designed for companies of all sizes. The solution manages employee data and HR information. In addition, the solution allows users to create as much employee data as needed and offers free upgrades, patches and unlimited source code customization. The setup process is a step-by-step process, which makes it easier for users who are not so familiar with open source software.

You may also want to read: Why do You Need to Invest in Human Resource Information System?