We extensively research the key competitors within an industry to determine the best products and services for your business. Our experts identify the factors that matter most to business owners, including pricing, features and customer support, to ensure that our recommendations offer well-rounded products that will meet the needs of various small businesses.
We collect extensive data to narrow our best list to reputable, easy-to-use products with stand-out features at a reasonable price point. And we look at user reviews to ensure that business owners like you are satisfied with our top picks’ services. We use the same rubric to assess companies within a particular space so you can confidently follow our blueprint to the best talent management software of 2024.
Expert score (10%): Our expert score for each provider was formulated according to four key components: features, value for money, popularity and ease of use. Each of these for parts was weighted at a value of 2.5% to come up with an expert score worth 10% of the total assessment. We explain how each category was broken down below.
Value (25%): Our research team judged value on both transparency of pricing data and actual cost. First, we checked if pricing was publicly available. We then compared the costs of base monthly and annual plans, tier one monthly and annual plans and tier two monthly and annual plans.
We also considered whether there were volume discounts available, which would be of interest to business owners with larger teams. Finally, we checked if there was a free trial available, which would give entrepreneurs a chance to test a product before committing to it financially.
Features (47%): In the features category, 10% of the value was assigned to general HR features. In this area, we considered practical HR features like the availability of an org chart and the ability to manage payroll and benefits. The remaining 37% of the features category focused on talent management features.
For recruitment, we looked for hiring and applicant tracking tools as well as onboarding options. In terms of general employee management, we looked for features like reporting analytics, performance management tools, goal-setting and management features and training/learning opportunities. These kinds of extras can help small business owners make sure they are not only hiring effectively but also developing their workers to their maximum potential. Finally, we looked for usability features, like a self-service portal, where employees can do things like request leave.
Service and support (9%): Our research team considered both the variety and availability of customer support tools. We looked for self-help tools, including a knowledge base and training materials. We then assessed hands-on support options, looking at three primary categories: live chat, phone and email. Small business owners can benefit from a diversity of support options, allowing them to pick the outlet that best fits their needs.
Customer reviews (9%): Real-world reviews from customers can provide valuable insights into how practical and user-friendly a talent management tool is in practice. We thus looked at customer feedback on three major online platforms: Trustpilot, G2 and Capterra. We compared the overall rating of each one, valuing these equally at 3% each.
Read More: Best Talent Management Software in 2024