It can be tough for small business to manage their workforce effectively on a tight budget. And that is precisely why many turn to HR tools and software that can streamline or even automate a lot of the tasks that are necessary.

If you’re running a small business, you should definitely look into doing the same. And the first step is to take a look at the many types of HR tools and software that are out there:

1. Payroll Software

Handling salary calculations, tax withholdings, benefit deductions and ensuring compliance with regulations is not easy – but nowadays payroll management software can do most of that, and more. Some will even generate tax forms and integrate with accounting tools for further convenience.

2. Recruitment and Applicant Tracking Systems (ATS)

With this type of system you can streamline the recruitment process. Generally these tools will organize job applications, post openings on various platforms, and help to screen candidates and set up interviews.  In short, it can save you time and help you compete for talent even as a small business.

3. Employee Management and Human Resource Information Systems (HRIS)

Think of this type of software as an all-in-one solution designed to maintain a database of employee information, automate onboarding, track attendance, enable performance reviews, and store everything from leave requests to training records in a single location. It is designed to help keep HR records organized, and simplify the job of managing them.

4. Time-Tracking and Employee Monitoring Tools

Apps for employee time tracking and monitoring such as Controlio can be used to monitor attendance, keep tabs on work hours, and analyze productivity. Its features will give detailed insights on employee activity and productivity that can also be used to generate reports for payroll or performance evaluations.

It should be noted that Controlio has features that will extensively track employee activities including app and web usage, file transfers, emails, IM chats, and more. On top of that it can also capture screenshots, screen recordings, or keystrokes – as well as block unwanted websites for security reasons or to prevent distractions.

5. Employee Engagement Tools

If you want to improve morale and boost engagement levels, employee engagement tools may be the solution. They can help to collect feedback via pulse surveys, facilitate 1-on-1 check-ins, and even in some cases set performance goals and track performance metrics to spot early warning signs of disengagement.

To be honest there are other types of HR tools out there for compliance, training, onboarding, or even benefit management. The five listed above are the ones that small businesses should focus on initially, due to the essential role they play.

At the end of the day these HR tools can help you to automate and fulfill many of the tasks that would normally take an entirely team to perform. In the long run it’ll help you to save both time and money – so you can stretch your budget and invest it in other key areas.