9 Best Employee Management Tools in 2024

Managing your employees requires more than just spreadsheets and human resources personnel. It demands precision, empathy, and efficiency—all made possible through the right set of tools. 

The tools you use can smooth out projects, increase your company’s efficiency, and get better insights into employee effectiveness. Let’s look at the best tools to get the most out of your employees.

Short on time? Here are the 9 best Employee Management Tools:

1. Connecteam
2. Sage HR
3. Monday.com
4. Zoho Workplace
5. Gusto
6. ClickUp
7. Workday
8. Employee Navigator
9. Cornerstone OnDemand

Connecteam: Employee Management Hub

Best for: Fast-paced, remote-first teams seeking a real-time communication platform that blends chat, calls, tasks, and integrations for seamless collaboration.

What it is: Connecteam is more than just an employee management app; it’s a unified communication hub designed to keep your team connected and productive. Even with remote and offline employees in the field. Imagine group chats buzzing with ideas, video calls with brainstorming sessions, and tasks flowing effortlessly – all within one platform.

Main features:

• Real-Time Chat: Foster instant communication with persistent chat history, searchable messages, and emoji reactions.
• Video and Screen Sharing: Host seamless video calls with screen sharing capabilities for clear and interactive collaboration.
• Task Management: Assign, track, and discuss tasks directly within chats, keeping everyone on the same page.
• Integrations: Connect Connecteam with your favorite tools like Google Drive, Dropbox, and Trello for streamlined workflows.

Pros:

• Fast and Lightweight: The platform is designed for speed and responsiveness, ideal for busy teams that need instant communication.
• Remote-First Features: Video calls, screen sharing, and real-time collaboration tools are perfect for geographically dispersed teams.
• Free Plan: A generous free plan allows small teams to experience the core functionalities.
• User-Friendly Interface: Easy to learn and navigate, even for non-technical users.

Cons:

• Limited File Sharing: File sharing capabilities are limited compared to dedicated file management platforms.
• Project Management Features: While tasks can be managed, complex project management features might be lacking for larger projects.

Pricing:

Connecteam offers a free plan with limited features. Paid plans start at $29 per month, with higher tiers offering increased storage, integrations, and advanced features.

Get Connecteam today

Benefits of Using Employee Management Tools

The real test of any tool’s worth is the benefits it provides. Employee management tools go beyond convenience and offer tangible advantages that can transform the way you manage your workforce.

Improved Productivity and Efficiency

When mundane tasks are automated, the time spent on strategic initiatives increases. With better tracking and insights, you get better performance which is a pillar of great service delivery and product excellence.

Enhanced Employee Engagement and Satisfaction

Tools that support transparent goals and clear communication serve as the foundation for a highly engaged workforce. Employees feel more in tune with the company’s direction and thus more satisfied in their roles.

Streamlined HR Processes

By integrating different aspects of employee management into one software, you improve your HR department’s workflows. Reducing overload and creating an environment where tasks from different departments don’t operate in isolation but as a cohesive unit.

Access to Real-Time Data and Insights

Easily accessible data and trends pave the way for proactive rather than reactive management—these insights aid in making informed decisions that align with company and employee objectives.

Key Features of Employee Management Tools

The best employee management software can be deceptively simple, yet its functionalities are quite robust. Covering aspects from onboarding to offboarding. Let’s explore some of the essential features that these tools offer:

Time and Attendance Tracking

Gone are the days of manual clock-ins and timesheet approvals. Modern tools provide time-tracking software that allows employees to log their working hours accurately. With alerts, managers can ensure shifts are adequately staffed and notice early indicators of overtime, and your team of marketers can accomplish more.

Performance Evaluation and Feedback

Objective and consistent performance feedback can be easily managed through performance evaluation modules. These allow for scheduled appraisals, peer reviews, and real-time feedback systems, strengthening a culture of development and recognition.

Employee Communication and Collaboration

Today’s workforce is diverse and often remote, making effective communication the linchpin of any team’s success. Tools offer chat, file-sharing, and project management features that break down silos across geographical barriers. Poor communication can be costly, and a good employee management system helps you avoid this.

Onboarding and Training

Smooth onboarding tools set the stage for employee success. Tools now streamline the process, taking new hires from paperwork to training schedules, and ensuring they move cohesively into their roles within the company’s context and culture.

Data and Analytics

What cannot be measured cannot be managed. With useful analytics tools, HR professionals can now get into the data to track HR trends, predict issues, and strategize future workforce developments.

These tools, when working together, form a system that minimizes the risks of human error and miscommunication, improving operations across the HR spectrum.

9 Best Employee Management Software

The market is a tapestry of choices, but a few tools stand out for their feature-rich offerings and positive user experiences. Let’s look at the best employee management software

Note that the ‘best’ tool for you is the one that aligns most closely with your specific needs, so it’s critical to do your research and if possible, trial runs before committing.

Sage HR: Your HR Partner for Growing Businesses

Best for: Small and medium-sized businesses (SMBs) seeking a user-friendly HR platform that simplifies employee management, payroll, and benefits administration.

What it is: Sage HR goes beyond simple employee data management. It’s a comprehensive HR platform designed to ease everyday tasks, automate processes, and empower your employees. Think of it as an all-in-one solution for HR needs, helping you attract, retain, and manage your valuable workforce.

Main features:

• Employee Management: Store employee information, track absences and time off, and manage performance reviews with ease.
• Payroll Integration: Seamlessly integrate payroll processing with robust tax filing and compliance features (in specific regions).
• Benefits Administration: Simplify health insurance, 401(k) plans, and other employee benefits offerings through intuitive tools.
• Onboarding and Offboarding: Automate and streamline the new hire and employee departure processes for a smooth experience.

If you’re looking specifically for the best payroll solutions, we have a round-up for you.

Pros:

• User-Friendly Interface: Easy to navigate and understand, even for users with limited HR experience.
• Affordable Pricing: Competitive pricing plans make it accessible to growing businesses.
• Mobile App: Manage HR tasks and employee information on the go with the convenient mobile app.
• Integrations: Connects with various accounting and payroll software for streamlined workflows.

Cons:

• Limited Reporting: Reporting functionalities might not be sufficient for businesses requiring complex HR analytics.
• Payroll Availability: Payroll features are not available in all regions.

Pricing:

Sage HR offers various pricing plans depending on your company size and needs. Starting plans cost around $4 per user per month, with additional fees for specific features like payroll integration (where available).

Try Sage HR today

Monday.com: Projectmanagement, CRM and HR tool

Best for: Creative and visual teams looking for a fun and intuitive platform to manage projects, track tasks, and collaborate seamlessly.

What it is: Monday.com isn’t your typical project management tool. It’s a vibrant, visual platform that uses boards, columns, and cards to represent your projects and workflows. Think of it as a customizable Kanban board on steroids, perfect for bringing clarity and collaboration to your team’s creative endeavors.

Main features:

• Visual Board System: Organize projects and tasks on dynamic boards with customizable columns and cards. Move cards seamlessly through various stages, keeping everyone informed.
• Intuitive Interface: Monday.com boasts a drag-and-drop interface that’s easy to use, even for non-technical users.
• Powerful Automations: Automate repetitive tasks with powerful automations triggered by specific actions or events.
• Extensive Integrations: Connect Monday.com with various tools you already use, like Dropbox, Google Drive, and Slack, for streamlined workflows.

Pros:

• Visually Appealing: The colorful and intuitive interface makes project management engaging and fun.
• Highly Customizable: Adapt the platform to your specific workflow with custom views, dashboards, and automations.
• Mobile-Friendly: Stay connected and manage projects on the go with the user-friendly mobile app.
• Free Plan: A generous free plan allows individuals and small teams to explore the platform’s functionalities.

Cons:

• Limited Project Complexity: Might not be ideal for highly complex projects or large teams with intricate workflows.
• Focus on Visualization: While visually appealing, some users might prefer a more data-driven approach to project management.

Pricing:

Monday.com offers a free plan with limited features. Paid plans start at $40 per month, with higher tiers offering increased functionality, storage, and integrations. Enterprise plans are also available for large organizations.

Try Monday for free

Zoho Workplace: Your One-Stop Shop for Streamlined Teamwork

Best for: Businesses of all sizes looking for an affordable, all-in-one collaboration hub to boost team productivity and communication.

What it is: Zoho Workplace is a cloud-based suite of tools designed to empower your team to work smarter, not harder. Think of it as your virtual office space, packed with everything you need for seamless collaboration, communication, and file management.

Main features:

• Unified Communication: Zoho Mail serves as your business email hub, while Zoho Cliq offers instant messaging and chat functionality. Zoho Meeting keeps your team connected through video conferencing.
• Collaboration Suite: Zoho Writer, Sheet, and Show take care of your document creation, spreadsheet management, and presentation needs, all with real-time co-editing capabilities.
• File Management: Zoho WorkDrive provides a secure platform to store, share, and collaborate on files across your team.
• Additional Tools: Project management, task management, notes, and bookmarks further enhance your team’s efficiency.

Pros:

• Affordability: Zoho Workplace offers multiple pricing tiers, making it accessible to businesses of all sizes. Even the free plan comes with a generous set of features.
• Integration: Zoho products easily integrate, creating a smooth workflow. Additionally, Zoho offers integrations with several third-party applications.
• Mobility: Access your Zoho Workplace tools from any device, anywhere in the world. Mobile apps ensure you’re always connected.
• Security: Zoho takes data security seriously, offering robust security features and compliance certifications.

Cons:

• Learning curve: While user-friendly, Zoho has a wider range of features compared to some competitors, which might require some initial learning.
• Limited storage: The free plan comes with limited storage space, which may not be enough for larger teams.

Pricing:

Zoho Workplace offers a free plan for up to 5 users, with paid plans starting at $4 per user per month. Enterprise plans with additional features and customization options are also available.

Get Zoho Workplace Today

Gusto: Payroll Made Easy and Engaging

Best for: Small and medium-sized businesses (SMBs) seeking an intuitive and comprehensive HR platform that simplifies payroll, benefits, and employee management.

What it is: Gusto is more than just a payroll software – it’s a full-fledged HR solution designed to take the burden off your shoulders and empower your team. From automated payroll processing and tax filing to employee benefits administration and performance management, Gusto helps you manage your people effectively.

Main features:

• Effortless Payroll: Run payroll in minutes with automated calculations, tax filing, and direct deposits. Gusto even helps you identify potential tax credits.
• Benefits Administration: Offer competitive health insurance, 401(k) plans, and other benefits to attract and retain top talent. Gusto handles enrollment, administration, and compliance.
• HR Tools: Manage employee information, track time and attendance, and streamline onboarding and offboarding processes with Gusto’s built-in HR tools.
• Performance Management: Set goals, track progress, and provide feedback to your employees with Gusto’s performance management features.

Pros:

• User-friendly interface: Gusto is incredibly easy to navigate, making it perfect for businesses with limited HR expertise.
• Comprehensive features: From payroll and benefits to HR and performance management, Gusto offers everything you need to manage your employees effectively.
• Expert support: Gusto’s dedicated HR team is available to answer your questions and provide guidance whenever you need it.
• Scalability: Gusto grows with your business, offering customizable plans to fit your needs.

Cons:

• Limited reporting: While Gusto offers basic reporting features, they may not be sufficient for businesses with complex reporting requirements.
• Limited integrations: Gusto integrates with some popular third-party tools, but the selection might be limited compared to some competitors.

Pricing:

Gusto offers various pricing plans depending on your company size and needs. Starting plans cost around $40 per month, with additional fees for specific features like benefits administration.

Get a free trial today

ClickUp: Your Project Management tool

Best for: Teams of all sizes and industries seeking a highly customizable and versatile project management platform that fits their unique workflow.

What it is: ClickUp is one of those employee management systems that adapts to your specific needs. Imagine a customizable workspace where you can manage tasks, documents, goals, communication, and more, all under one unified platform. ClickUp empowers you to break free from rigid structures and create a workflow that truly works for you.

Main features:

• Unparalleled Customization: ClickUp boasts incredible flexibility, allowing you to create custom views, fields, automations, and even entire “ClickApps” tailored to your project needs.
• Multi-Faceted Functionality: Manage tasks, track time, set goals, collaborate on documents, hold discussions, and visualize progress – ClickUp offers a diverse toolbox for various project elements.
• Visual Hierarchy: Organize your projects with a unique n-level hierarchy, providing a clear structure for complex workflows and large teams.
• Team Collaboration: Real-time updates, mentions, comments, and chat functionality help employee performance high.

Pros:

• Extreme Flexibility: ClickUp caters to almost any project management style, offering unmatched customization options.
• Feature-Rich Platform: Packed with functionalities, ClickUp eliminates the need for multiple tools, streamlining your workflow.
• Free Plan: A generous free plan with core features makes it accessible to individuals and small teams.
• Active Development: ClickUp is constantly evolving, adding new features and improvements based on user feedback.

Cons:

• Potential for Over-Customization: The freedom to customize can lead to cluttered, inefficient setups if not done thoughtfully.
• Mobile App Limitations: While functional, the mobile app may not offer the full feature set of the desktop version.

Pricing:

ClickUp offers a free plan with limited features. Paid plans start at $10 per user per month, with higher tiers offering additional functionality and customization options. Enterprise plans are also available for large organizations.

Get started for free

Workday: Your Enterprise-Grade Cloud HCM Solution

Best for: Large organizations seeking a comprehensive and scalable human capital management (HCM) platform to manage all aspects of their workforce.

What it is: Workday is a cloud-based HCM suite that covers everything from talent acquisition and onboarding to performance management and compensation. Think of it as a unified platform for all your employee satisfaction needs, offering a holistic view of your workforce.

Main features:

• Talent Acquisition: Streamline recruitment processes with applicant tracking system, onboarding tools, and skills assessments.
• Human Resources: Manage employee data, payroll, benefits administration, and compliance effortlessly.
• Learning and Development: Offer training programs, track employee progress, and measure learning impact.
• Performance Management: Set goals, conduct performance reviews, and provide feedback for workforce management.

Pros:

• Scalability and Security: Designed for large enterprises, Workday offers robust scalability and security features.
• Comprehensive Functionality: Covers all aspects of HCM, eliminating the need for multiple disparate systems.
• Advanced Analytics: Powerful reporting and analytics tools provide deep insights into your workforce.
• Mobile App: Access key HR functions and employee information on the go with the mobile app.

Cons:

• Implementation Complexity: Setting up and customizing Workday can be complex and require specialized expertise.
• Steep Learning Curve: The vast array of features can have a steeper learning curve for users.

Pricing:

Workday pricing is based on a per-user, per-month subscription model and varies depending on the specific modules and features required. It’s generally considered a high-cost solution compared to other HCM platforms.

Employee Navigator: Your All-in-One HRIS for Growing Teams

Best for: Small and medium-sized businesses seeking a user-friendly and affordable HR information system (HRIS) to manage employee data, payroll, and benefits.

What it is: Employee Navigator is a cloud-based HRIS designed to simplify HR tasks and provide a centralized platform for managing your workforce. Think of it as a one-stop shop for employee information, payroll processing, and core HR functionalities, making HR management efficient and accessible.

Main features:

• Employee Data Management: Store and manage employee information, track time off, and run reports with ease.
• Payroll Processing: Automate payroll calculations, tax filings, and direct deposits.
• Benefits Administration: Simplify health insurance, retirement plans, and other employee benefits offerings.
• Performance Management: Set goals, track progress, and conduct performance reviews electronically.

Pros:

• Easy to Use: The platform is designed to be user-friendly, even for HR professionals with limited technical expertise.
• Affordable Pricing: Competitive pricing plans make it accessible to growing businesses.

• Mobile App: Manage HR tasks and employee information on the go with the convenient mobile app.
• Integrations: Connects with popular accounting and payroll software for streamlined workflows.

Cons:

• Limited Customization: The platform offers basic customization options, but it might not cater to highly specific needs.
• Limited Global Support: Availability and features might be limited for businesses with international operations.

Pricing:

Employee Navigator offers various pricing plans depending on your company size and needs. Starting plans cost around $630 per month, with additional fees for specific features like advanced reporting.

Sign up for Employee Navigator

Cornerstone: Your Talent Management Powerhouse

Best for: Large organizations seeking a robust talent management platform to attract, engage, and develop top talent.

What it is: Cornerstone is a comprehensive talent management suite that spans the entire employee lifecycle. Think of it as an engine for talent acquisition, onboarding, development, and performance management, helping you build a high-performing workforce.

Main features:

• Learning Management: Deliver engaging training programs, track learner progress, and measure learning impact.
• Performance Management: Set goals, conduct performance reviews, and provide feedback for continuous improvement.
• Talent Acquisition: Streamline recruitment processes with applicant tracking, onboarding tools, and skills assessments.
• Succession Planning: Identify and develop future leaders within your organization.

Pros:

• Comprehensive Functionality: Covers all aspects of talent management, offering a holistic approach to workforce development.
• Advanced Customization: The platform can be highly customized to fit specific organizational needs and workflows.
• Scalability and Security: Designed for large enterprises, Cornerstone OnDemand offers robust scalability and security features.
• Integrations: Integrates with various HR and business systems for seamless workflows.

Cons:

• Implementation Complexity: Setting up and customizing Cornerstone OnDemand can be complex and require specialized expertise.
• High Cost: The platform comes with a premium price tag, making it less accessible for smaller businesses.
• Steep Learning Curve: The vast array of features can have a steeper learning curve for users.

Pricing:

Cornerstone OnDemand pricing is based on a per-user, per-month subscription model and varies depending on the specific modules and features required. It’s generally considered a high-cost solution compared to other talent management platforms.

Finding the Right Fit: Choosing the Best Employee Management Software for Your Team

Finding the right employee management software can feel overwhelming, with countless options promising to improve your HR processes and boost employee experience. By understanding your specific needs and priorities, you can sift through the options and find the right fit for your team.

We looked at the best employee management software, lets recap:

• Connecteam: A real-time communication hub ideal for remote teams looking for seamless chat, calls, and task management.
• Zoho Workplace: A cost-effective all-in-one solution ideal for startups and small businesses seeking affordability and core collaboration features.
• Gusto: A user-friendly HR platform perfect for SMBs that value simplicity and comprehensive payroll, benefits, and employee management tools.
• ClickUp: A highly customizable project management platform empowering teams of all sizes with flexibility and visual organization.
• Monday.com: A visually engaging platform perfect for task- aand projectmanagement teams seeking collaborative project management experience.
• Sage HR: A user-friendly and affordable HR solution ideal for growing businesses to streamline employee management, payroll, and benefits administration.
• Workday: A comprehensive and scalable HCM suite for large enterprises requiring a robust solution for all aspects of their workforce.
• Employee Navigator: An affordable and user-friendly HRIS perfect for growing businesses seeking to manage employee data, payroll, and benefits in one centralized platform.
• Cornerstone OnDemand: A powerful talent management platform ideal for large organizations seeking to attract, engage, and develop top talent through comprehensive learning, performance management, and succession planning tools.

The best employee management systems don’t exist in a vacuum. It’s the one that aligns seamlessly with your unique needs and budget, ultimately creating a positive and productive employee experience. Consider your team size, industry, workflow preferences, and desired functionalities to make an informed decision.