Skip to main content

10 Best Employee Resource Management Software Shortlist

Here's my pick of the 10 best software from the 20 tools reviewed.

With the variety of employee resource management software options out there, selecting the right one can be a real challenge. You're looking to effectively manage your team's resources and need a reliable tool to do so. I understand your needs and I'm here to guide you through the decision-making process. Drawing from my extensive experience with a variety of digital productivity tools, here are my picks for the best employee resource management software. 

Why Trust Our Software Reviews

I’ve been testing and reviewing project management since 2012. As a project manager myself, I know how critical and difficult it is to make the right decision when selecting software.

We invest in deep research to help our audience make better software purchasing decisions. We’ve tested more than 2,000 tools for different project management use cases and written over 1,000 comprehensive software reviews. Learn how we stay transparent & our software review methodology

Best Employee Resource Management Software Summary

This comparison chart summarizes pricing details for my top employee resource management software selections to help you find the best software for your budget and business needs.

Tools Price
Hubstaff Tasks From $5/user/month
awork From $8.50/user/month (billed annually)
Ganttic From $25 month/20 resources/unlimited users
ProWorkflow From $20/user/month
Resource Guru From $4.16/user/month (billed annually)
Celoxis From $15/user/month (billed annually)
Quire From $7/user/month
Kantata Pricing upon request
Saviom Pricing upon request
Parallax Pricing upon request
Compare Software Specs Side by Side

Compare Software Specs Side by Side

Use our comparison chart to review and evaluate software specs side-by-side.

Compare Software

How to Choose Employee Resource Management Software

As you work through your unique software selection process, keep the following points in mind:

  • Identify Specific Needs: Before diving into the selection process, it's crucial to identify the specific needs of your organization. Employee management software should cater to the unique challenges your business faces, such as scheduling, time tracking, or resource allocation. For instance, a construction company may require key features like scheduling to manage its workforce across multiple sites, while a consulting firm might prioritize time tracking to bill clients accurately.
  • Integration Capabilities: The ability to integrate with existing systems is a key consideration. The software should work in tandem with other tools your business uses, such as payroll systems, HR software, or project management software. For example, a retail business might look for software that integrates with its point-of-sale system to streamline employee scheduling and payroll processing.
  • Scalability: Choose software that can grow with your business. The software should be able to handle an increasing number of employees without a drop in performance. A startup, for example, will benefit from software that can easily scale from managing a handful of employees to hundreds as the company grows, without the need for a complete system overhaul. Mid-sized businesses would benefit from scalable features for things like employee onboarding, ongoing monitoring for employee engagement, talent management, built-in performance reviews, and HR management which will help alleviate your HR team as you add new hires to the team.
  • User-Friendly Interface: The software should be easy to use for all levels of users. A complex system can lead to a steep learning curve and resistance from employees. For instance, a non-profit organization with volunteers of varying tech-savviness would need software that is straightforward and accessible to encourage widespread adoption.
  • Compliance and Reporting: Ensure the software meets legal requirements and provides comprehensive reporting tools. It should help maintain compliance with labor laws and provide reports for analysis and decision-making. A healthcare provider, for example, must adhere to strict staffing regulations and would benefit from software that can automatically flag potential compliance issues and generate relevant staffing reports.

Best Employee Resource Management Software Reviews

Here are my detailed thoughts on each software on this list, including what they do well and the best use cases for each.

Best for time tracking

  • 14-day free trial
  • From $5/user/month
Visit Website
Rating: 4.5/5

Hubstaff Tasks is an Agile project management tool focused on enhancing team productivity. 

Why I picked Hubstaff Tasks: I selected Hubstaff Tasks for a few of its standout project management features and exceptional time-tracking functionality. This tool differentiates itself with its integrated time tracking, which offers detailed insights into task durations, which is crucial for managing project timelines. Hubstaff Tasks combines time tracking with agile project management, delivering a comprehensive tool for teams to manage their work and time efficiently.

Standout Features & Integrations

Features include Agile project management, such as Kanban Boards, automated workflows, Agile sprints, epics, roadmaps, and automated stand-ups. These features aim to maximize team productivity and ensure complete project visibility. 

Integrations include Hubstaff, GitHub, Asana, Trello, Slack, QuickBooks, Salesforce, Jira, Google Calendar, and Zapier. 

Pros and cons

Pros:

  • Variety of project templates for quick implementation
  • Time tracking integration for detailed task reporting
  • Agile workflows and sprints for effective project management

Cons:

  • Agile methodologies may present a learning curve for new teams
  • No mobile app

Best for automated workflows

  • 14-day free trial + 30-day money back guarantee
  • From $8.50/user/month (billed annually)
Visit Website
Rating: 4.4/5

awork is a tool that simplifies project management and team collaboration. It stands out for its automated workflows that efficiently manage tasks and projects.

Why I picked awork: I selected awork for its automated workflow capabilities that significantly reduce manual task management. awork excels at automating workflows by allowing teams to automate repetitive tasks, enabling them to concentrate on more critical work without the distraction of manual processes.

Standout Features & Integrations

Features include automated workflows, project management, and time tracking, which are essential for efficient team collaboration. It also offers multi-project list and timeline, customizable filters, and task management with various views such as list, board, and timeline. awork also enables quick actions for task creation, project process automation, and quality assurance review flows. 

Integrations include Slack, Google Calendar, Outlook, Zapier, QuickBooks, Datev, and more.

Pros and cons

Pros:

  • Automated workflows reduce manual task management
  • Integrates with popular tools like Slack and Google Calendar
  • GDPR is compliant with secure data storage on certified servers

Cons:

  • Limited customization options
  • May have a learning curve for new users to fully utilize all features

Best for visual resource planning

  • 14-day free trial
  • From $25 month/20 resources/unlimited users
Visit Website
Rating: 4/5

Ganttic simplifies complex resource management with visual tools. It excels in visual resource planning with its intuitive Gantt charts and real-time data.

Why I picked Ganttic: I selected Ganttic for its exceptional ability to provide a visual snapshot of resource allocation and project timelines, which is crucial for effective resource management. Ganttic is ideal for visual resource planning because it enables managers to see the big picture, adjust schedules on the fly, and ensure resources are used efficiently without overcommitting.

Standout Features & Integrations

Features include customizable Gantt charts, real-time resource tracking, and a drag-and-drop interface for easy scheduling. It also offers detailed reporting for resource utilization and project progress. 

Integrations include Google Calendar, Microsoft Azure, Microsoft Outlook, OneLogin and Zapier.

Pros and cons

Pros:

  • Drag-and-drop scheduling for ease of use
  • Real-time tracking of resources and projects
  • Customizable Gantt charts for detailed planning

Cons:

  • Tutorials could be improved
  • Initial setup may require time to adapt to features

Best for project visibility

  • From $20/user/month

ProWorkflow is a comprehensive tool for managing projects and resources effectively.

Why I picked ProWorkflow: I selected ProWorkflow because it excels in providing a transparent view of project progress, which is crucial for managing multiple tasks and deadlines. Its emphasis on project visibility is what sets it apart, offering a clear, real-time picture of project statuses, which is essential for effective management and client communication.

Standout Features & Integrations

Features include time tracking, comprehensive reporting, and resource management. It also offers a mobile app for on-the-go access and a customizable dashboard for a personalized overview of projects.

Integrations include QuickBooks, Xero, KashFlow, Box Storage, Dropbox, Google Drive, and OneDrive. 

Pros and cons

Pros:

  • Wide range of integrations
  • Customizable dashboard
  • Real-time project visibility

Cons:

  • Limited to project and resource management functions
  • May require time to fully learn all features

Best for leave management

  • 30-day free trial
  • From $4.16/user/month (billed annually)
Visit Website
Rating: 4.7/5

Resource Guru is a tool designed to help teams manage their resources and schedules effectively.

Why I picked Resource Guru: I selected Resource Guru for its straightforward interface and comprehensive resource management capabilities. Its leave management system is particularly noteworthy, providing transparency into team availability and helping to avoid over-commitment. Resource Guru is one of the better tools out there for leave management due to its ability to maintain a balanced workload which can aid in preventing employee burnout.

Standout Features & Integrations

Features include a simple drag-and-drop scheduling interface, visibility into resource availability, and insightful reports. 

Integrations include Slack, Trello, Asana, Google Calendar, Outlook, Zoom, QuickBooks, Xero, and Salesforce.

Pros and cons

Pros:

  • Integrates with a wide range of other tools
  • Drag-and-drop scheduling interface
  • Transparent leave management system

Cons:

  • Limited customization options in lower-tier plans
  • Annual billing may not suit all budgets

Best for enterprise PPM

  • 14-day free trial + free demo available
  • From $15/user/month (billed annually)
Visit Website
Rating: 4.5/5

Celoxis is an all-in-one platform specializing in Advanced Project Portfolio Management (PPM) for enterprise-level organizations, with tools to support your project, resource, and financial management.

Why I picked Celoxis: I chose Celoxis for its in-depth suite of features that cater to the complex needs of Enterprise Project Portfolio Management (Enterprise PPM). Its ability to provide detailed analytics and customizable dashboards sets it apart from other PPM tools. Celoxis is a strong software choice because of it's feature-rich platform for managing large-scale projects and portfolios, ensuring alignment with business objectives and maximizing value.

Standout Features & Integrations

Features include project request tracking, dynamic project planning, and real-time project tracking. Its project accounting capabilities offer visibility into budgets and profitability, while portfolio management tools allow for the tracking of key performance indicators. 

Integrations include Google Drive, Outlook, Microsoft Project, Excel, Salesforce, JIRA, Azure DevOps, Slack, and Trello.

Pros and cons

Pros:

  • Highly customizable and flexible
  • Customizable dashboards and reports for real-time insights
  • Advanced project and portfolio management features

Cons:

  • Slight learning curve for some advance features
  • May not be suitable for small teams or organizations with fewer than 5 employees

Best for nested task management

  • Free plan available
  • From $7/user/month
Visit Website
Rating: 4.6/5

Quire is a task management platform that excels in helping teams organize and manage their work efficiently.

Why I picked Quire: I selected Quire for its distinctive nested task management capability, which sets it apart from other project management tools. Its approach to breaking down tasks into smaller, more manageable pieces is particularly effective for complex projects. Quire provides a clear and detailed structure for planning and executing tasks through its nested task management functionalities. These features are essential for maintaining productivity and focus and cutting down on time-consuming administrative tasks.

Standout Features & Integrations

Features include its infinite nested list that simplifies complex tasks, a Kanban board for visualizing workflow, and a smart sublist for concentrating on specific tasks. Additionally, it offers a dynamic timeline for project scheduling and interactive analytics for monitoring progress.

Integrations include Google Drive, Microsoft OneDrive, Slack, Zapier, GitHub, Google Workspace add-ons, Google Calendar, Dropbox, and Box.

Pros and cons

Pros:

  • Data-driven insights with interactive analytics
  • Visual project management with Kanban board and dynamic timeline
  • Infinite nested list for in-depth task breakdown

Cons:

  • Premium features locked behind paid plans
  • Fewer integrations than some competitors

Best for professional services

  • Pricing upon request
Visit Website
Rating: 4.1/5

Kantata is a laser-focused software solution for professional services, specializing in elevating performance throughout the project lifecycle.

Why I picked Kantata: I chose Kantata for this list because it fills the gaps that traditional PSA solutions often overlook, providing a powerful management tool that supports clients, teams, and margins. I believe Kantata is the best for professional services because it addresses the full range of functionality needed by professional services firms, from resource management to financial oversight.

Standout Features & Integrations

Features include resource management, financial management, project management, team collaboration, and business intelligence. 

Integrations include Salesforce, QuickBooks, Google Drive, Slack, Jira, Xero, Zapier, Microsoft Teams, HubSpot, and Asana. 

Pros and cons

Pros:

  • Performance-focused features for elevating performance throughout the project lifecycle
  • Customizable platform with a wide range of integrations
  • Simple automated workflow builder

Cons:

  • Doesn’t have a built-in time tracking feature
  • May be complex for smaller teams or less complex projects

Best for workforce optimization

  • 60-day free trial
  • Pricing upon request
Visit Website
Rating: 5/5

Saviom offers a solution for enterprise resource and workforce planning. It excels in workforce optimization through its real-time business intelligence and forecasting.

Why I picked Saviom: I selected Saviom for its customizable and scalable architecture, which stands out for its ability to adapt to various business requirements. Saviom has great features for workforce optimization which provide essential real-time insights and forecasting, enabling effective resource planning and utilization.

Standout Features & Integrations

Features include real-time business intelligence, forecasting, and workflow automation. It integrates with ERP, ERM, project planning, PPM, and HR systems, facilitating real-time or batch data exchange.

Integrations include Microsoft Project, SAP, Oracle, Microsoft Dynamics, Jira, Salesforce, Google Workspace, Trello, Slack, and Xero. 

Pros and cons

Pros:

  • Integrates with a variety of systems
  • Real-time insights and forecasting capabilities
  • Highly customizable and scalable

Cons:

  • Potential learning curve due to complex features
  • Pricing requires a quote

Best for capacity forecasting

  • Free demo
  • Pricing upon request
Visit Website
Rating: 4.7/5

Parallax is a strategic operations solution that optimizes team potential and maximizes utilization.

Why I picked Parallax: I chose Parallax for its holistic approach to capacity planning, which is essential for digital service organizations. Its focus on forecasting and resource optimization makes it distinct from other resource management tools. I believe Parallax is the best for capacity forecasting because it provides a clear view of future capacity, considering both confirmed and potential projects, which is crucial for aligning sales and delivery efforts.

Standout Features & Integrations

Features include proactive project scoping, capacity forecasts, and scenario planning. These features allow for efficient alignment of sales and delivery. 

Integrations include Salesforce, Jira, Slack, Microsoft Teams, Asana, Trello, GitHub, GitLab, Harvest, and QuickBooks. 

Pros and cons

Pros:

  • Offers customizable work hours and time-off management
  • Provides real-time visibility into project operations
  • Feature focus on revenue growth and billable utilization

Cons:

  • The tool may have a learning curve for new users, especially for advance features
  • Pricing may be steep for smaller organizations

Other Employee Resource Management Software

Below is a list of additional employee resource management software that I shortlisted, but did not make it to the top list. Worth checking them out.

  1. Forecast

    Best for AI-driven insights

  2. Teamwork.com

    Best for client work management

  3. Paymo

    Best for small business management

  4. Wrike

    Best for team collaboration

  5. Zoho Projects

    Best for scalability

  6. Smartsheet

    Best for spreadsheet-based projects

  7. Hub Planner

    Best for real-time utilization insights

  8. eResource Scheduler

    Best for real-time scheduling

  9. monday.com

    Best for workflow automation

  10. ClickUp

    Best for task management

Related Project Management Reviews

If you still haven't found what you're looking for here, check out these other project management tool reviews we've curated for you:

Employee Resource Management Software Selection Criteria

When selecting employee resource management software, it's crucial to consider both functionality and how well it addresses specific use cases that are vital for your organization. The criteria should reflect the needs and pain points of the buyer, ensuring that the chosen solution effectively supports the intended purposes. Having personally tried and researched various solutions, I've developed a set of criteria that are critical for evaluating these tools.

Core Functionality: 25% of the Total Weighting Score 

  • Employee profile management
  • Time and attendance tracking
  • Leave and absence management
  • Benefits administration
  • Compliance with employment laws

Additional Standout Features: 25% of the Total Weighting Score

  • Innovative scheduling tools with drag-and-drop calendars
  • Asset management capabilities with intuitive filtering or tagging
  • Role-based access controls that are straightforward to manage
  • Advanced analytics and reporting tools for better decision-making
  • Mobile accessibility for managing resources on-the-go

Usability: 10% of the Total Weighting Score

  • Intuitive navigation and user interface
  • Balance between comprehensive features and user-friendliness
  • Aesthetic design that facilitates engagement and reduces the learning curve
  • Responsive design for various devices and screen sizes

Onboarding: 10% of the Total Weighting Score

  • Availability of training materials such as videos and templates
  • Interactive product tours and chatbots for immediate assistance
  • Webinars and other educational resources for in-depth learning
  • A clear and concise knowledge base or learning library

Customer Support: 10% of the Total Weighting Score 

  • Multiple channels of support (email, phone, live chat)
  • Responsiveness and resolution times
  • Quality of support provided by customer service representatives
  • Availability of self-service resources

Value For Money: 10% of the Total Weighting Score 

  • Transparent pricing models
  • Comparison of feature sets against the cost
  • Flexibility of pricing plans to suit different business sizes
  • Cost-effectiveness for the long-term use of the software

Customer Reviews: 10% of the Total Weighting Score 

  • Overall satisfaction ratings
  • Feedback on specific features and their effectiveness
  • User testimonials on the impact of the software on their operations
  • Consistency of positive feedback across various user segments

Here are some current and interesting trends I'm noticing in employee resource management software technology.

  • Integration with Remote Work Environments: Software is increasingly catering to remote teams. This trend reflects the shift towards flexible work arrangements. It's vital for maintaining team cohesion and productivity.
  • Emphasis on Employee Well-being: Tools now often include features for monitoring and promoting employee well-being. This trend underscores the growing recognition of mental health in the workplace. It's important for fostering a supportive work culture.
  • Advanced Data Analytics: There's a surge in the use of sophisticated analytics to optimize workforce management. This trend is driven by the need for data-driven decision-making. It's crucial for strategic planning and resource allocation.
  • AI and Machine Learning Capabilities: Artificial intelligence and machine learning are being integrated to automate tasks. This trend is transforming how managers forecast and plan resource needs. It's significant for increasing efficiency and reducing human error.
  • Customization and Flexibility: Software is becoming more adaptable to specific business needs. This trend is a response to the diverse and evolving demands of organizations. It's essential for ensuring the software's relevance and utility.

These trends indicate a dynamic evolution in employee resource management software, with a strong focus on adaptability and employee-centric features. Whether you are looking for a tool right now or shopping around, these are some of the core features you will begin to see from employee resource management software which will continue to shape the industry. 

What Is Employee Resource Management Software?

Employee resource management software is a digital platform designed to manage and optimize the workforce within an organization. It is utilized by managers and human resources professionals to align employee skills and availability with business needs and projects. This software serves as a central hub for overseeing employee schedules, assignments, and workload to ensure that staff are effectively deployed to meet organizational objectives.

Employee resource management software comprises various components, including tools for scheduling, time tracking, skills management, and analytics. These elements work together to provide a comprehensive view of resource availability and utilization, enabling informed decision-making and proactive management of the workforce.

Features of Employee Resource Management Software

Employee resource management software is a vital tool for businesses looking to effectively manage their workforce. Below, I outline the most important features to consider when selecting such software for your organization.

  • Employee Scheduling: This feature allows for efficient shift planning and management. It is crucial to ensure that all shifts are adequately staffed and that employees are aware of their work schedules well in advance.
  • Time and Attendance Tracking: Accurate tracking of hours worked helps maintain compliance with labor laws and ensures employees receive fair compensation for their time.
  • Leave Management: Streamlines the process of requesting and approving time off, which is essential for maintaining a balanced and satisfied workforce.
  • Performance Management: Enables tracking and analysis of employee performance, providing valuable insights for employee development and recognition.
  • Resource Allocation: Assists in effectively distributing tasks and projects among employees, which is key for maximizing productivity and meeting business objectives.
  • Training and Development: Facilitates the organization and delivery of employee training programs, which are important for skill enhancement and career growth.
  • Compliance Management: Helps ensure that the company adheres to labor laws and regulations, which is critical for avoiding legal issues and maintaining a reputable business.
  • Reporting and Analytics: Provides data-driven insights into workforce management, allowing for informed decision-making and strategic planning.
  • Employee Self-Service: Empowers employees to manage their personal information, benefits, and other HR-related tasks, which can improve engagement and reduce administrative workload.
  • Mobile Access: Offers the flexibility for employees and managers to access the system from anywhere, which is increasingly important in today's mobile-first world.

Each feature plays a role in creating a more productive, engaged, and compliant workforce, ultimately contributing to the success of the business. As you evaluate your options, consider how these features align with your company's specific needs and goals.

Benefits of Employee Resource Management Software

Employee resource management software is a vital tool for businesses looking to improve workforce efficiency and streamline their human resources processes. Below are five primary benefits that organizations can expect when implementing this type of software.

  1. Improved Scheduling and Time Management: Employee resource management software provides a clear overview of employee schedules, making it easier to manage time and resources effectively. This leads to better utilization of staff and ensures that projects are adequately staffed.
  2. Enhanced Communication and Collaboration: The software facilitates better communication channels within teams, allowing for real-time updates and collaboration. This ensures that everyone is on the same page and can contribute more effectively to team objectives.
  3. Streamlined Administrative Processes: Automating routine tasks such as timesheet submission and leave requests reduces administrative burden. This allows HR staff to focus on more strategic initiatives that benefit the organization.
  4. Data-Driven Decision Making: With comprehensive reporting tools, the software enables managers to make informed decisions based on real-time data. This can lead to more effective workforce management and improved operational performance.
  5. Increased Employee Self-Service: Employees can manage their personal information, submit requests, and access important documents, which empowers them and reduces the workload on HR departments.

Employee resource management software stands as a cornerstone for modern businesses that aim to foster a productive and well-organized workforce. By leveraging these tools, companies can not only improve their operational efficiency but also provide a more satisfying work environment for their employees.

Costs & Pricing of Employee Resource Management Software

Employee resource management software is a critical tool for businesses of all sizes to efficiently manage their workforce. It encompasses a variety of functions, including recruitment, onboarding, payroll, performance management, and more. The pricing of such software can vary widely based on the number of employees, the features required, and the level of support needed. Below is a summary of the different plan options and their pricing, which can help software buyers with little to no experience choose the right solution for their needs.

Plan Comparison Table for Employee Resource Management Software

Plan TypeAverage PriceCommon Features
Free Plan$0Basic HR functions, limited user access, and community support
Base Plan$30 - $50 per monthCore HR functions, payroll, onboarding, limited number of employees, and email support
Per Employee Plan$5 - $10 per employeeAll base plan features, plus per-employee pricing for scalability, and additional support
Advanced Plan$80 - $250 per employeeAdvanced HR functions, custom integrations, AI-driven workflows, and premium support
A breakdown of plan types, costs, and features for employee resource management software.

When considering which plan to choose, software buyers should evaluate the size of their workforce, the complexity of their HR processes, and the level of support they anticipate needing. It's also important to consider the potential for growth and scalability offered by the software.

Employee Resource Management Software FAQs

Here are a few frequently asked questions I wanted to cover for you.

How does employee resource management software improve productivity?

By providing a centralized platform for all employee-related information, this software enables quick access to employee data, which saves time and reduces errors. It facilitates better planning and allocation of resources, ensuring that the right employees are matched with the right tasks. Additionally, it can automate routine tasks such as time tracking and leave management, allowing managers and HR professionals to focus on more strategic activities.

Can employee resource management software be integrated with other systems?

Yes, many employee resource management software solutions offer integration capabilities with other business systems such as payroll, accounting, and project management tools. This integration allows for a more unified approach to managing employee data and can lead to more accurate and timely information across various business functions.

Is employee resource management software suitable for small businesses?

Employee resource management software is beneficial for businesses of all sizes. For small businesses, it can automate and simplify HR processes, allowing owners and managers to focus on growth and operations. Many software options are scalable and offer flexible pricing models to accommodate the needs and budgets of smaller organizations.

How secure is employee resource management software?

Security is a top priority for employee resource management software providers. Reputable software solutions employ robust security measures such as data encryption, secure data centers, and regular security audits to protect sensitive employee information. It’s important to review the security features of any software you consider and ensure they comply with industry standards and regulations.

Can employee resource management software support remote teams?

Yes, most modern employee resource management software is designed to support remote teams. These solutions often include features like mobile access, cloud-based platforms, and communication tools to facilitate collaboration and management of employees, regardless of their location.

What kind of support can I expect from employee resource management software providers?

Support offerings vary by provider, but many offer a range of support services including online resources, training, customer service hotlines, and dedicated account managers. When evaluating software options, consider the level of support provided and ensure it aligns with your organization’s needs.

What’s Next?

Want to connect with other digital project managers to share resources and best practices? Join our membership community and get access to 100+ templates, samples, and examples, and connect with 100s of other digital project managers in Slack.

Hermann Fink
By Hermann Fink

Hermann Fink is a technology enthusiast and the co-founder of Rünna Advertising, a multinational digital agency that has been active for over a decade and served clients like Ford, AstraZeneca, Disney, and Didi. In addition to being a business owner, Hermann gathered corporate experience in project management during his time at Hewlett Packard in the mid-2010s.