Selecting an ATS...where do you start?
Maybe you’re still managing your recruitment with paper-based processes or perhaps your current Applicant Tracking System (ATS) just isn’t working for you anymore. So you’ve identified the need for an ATS. But where do you start? With so many ATS providers in the market it can be a daunting task to find the right one that works for you, your team, your hiring managers, your candidates and let’s not forget, your budget!
Don't prioritise your schedule, but…
Schedule your priorities. All too often organisations may look at how they are working currently and seek to use that as a basis for improvement. But what we suggest is that this is where you should pause for thought – don't just look to address the issue that is causing most hassle right now, but consider what your real priorities are that you want from a new system?
Before you even think about shortlisting ATS providers you need to draw up a list of what is important to you, and we don’t just mean features and functionality. The service, security of the system, the level of support and advice that a provider can give to you can be invaluable and should play a key part in any offering - just make sure that you’re not going to pay extra for it.
There is no one size fits all answer here – your priorities are just that - they are yours. However, the tender template that we have shared below will prove a useful guide to considering a wide range of factors that goes beyond simple functionality.
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Listen to those in your team who will use the ATS, what functionality do they really want and need? What are their frustrations and challenges with your current ATS or process? The same goes for Hiring Managers. They might not be day-to-day system users, but questions (and frustrations) constantly directed to your resourcing team can really add up if your ATS isn’t intuitive and easy to use.
Ask your IT department to draw up a list of points that are important to them at this stage (think GDPR, security, accreditations etc) and you’ll avoid delays and disappointment once you’ve found your perfect partner.
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Shortlisting suppliers is not as daunting as you might think
To help you on your quest for a new ATS, we’ve put together a checklist of key points to consider when reviewing providers. Armed with this and your own specific requirements, you’ll be well on your way to making a great decision.
1. Implementation
You should have a dedicated Implementation Manager within your chosen ATS provider who will be there to guide and support you through the entire process, share best practice and make recommendations to ensure your system enhances your recruitment process from day one. A great Implementation Manager will also be able to help you with your internal change communications making the introduction of your new ATS a real success.
2. Support
Informed, trustworthy and highly accessible support from your ATS provider is vital in ensuring a successful and ongoing return on investment. Are you assigned a Client Success Manager or an Account Manager? Will they be there to ensure you gain success from using the ATS or are they simply there to upsell? No pushy sales, but outstanding support and service that will be there for years to come and not just for the first few weeks.
3. Flexibility and configuration
Look for an ATS provider who can guarantee a flexible and highly configurable solution that reflects and enhances your recruitment process rather than dictates it. A flexible ATS will be able to grow with you as an organisation meaning you don’t need to change provider again in a few years.
Once you're up and running, you should be able to configure a lot of the ATS yourself rather than having to wait for your provider to make changes for you. Also, make sure you're not charged for tweaks and changes to the system as these can all add up and blow your budget.
4. Training
Ensure your new ATS includes plenty of ongoing training. Not just at system launch, but ongoing throughout your partnership to really ensure you’re getting the most out of it.
5. Innovation
You don’t want a provider that stands still. Check that your chosen provider has a strong development roadmap that includes exciting innovations.
6. Recommendations
Speak to others in your network. Think outside your sector and find out which ATS others are using and which they rate highly? Once you’ve narrowed down your ATS selection, take references from existing clients to find out how well they're looked after once they signed on the dotted line.
Still a daunting prospect?
Hopefully not as much! You’re now armed and equipped with all the information you need to start you on the journey to selecting your perfect ATS partner.
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Ready to start the ball rolling? We have a huge amount of experience in consulting and offering impartial advice on recruitment software. Arrange a demo today for an informal chat.