HR basics

HCM (Human Capital Management)

What is HCM (Human Capital Management)?

HCM (human capital management) is a broad category of enterprise HR software that bundles core HR with payroll, recruiting, performance, learning, and workforce planning, aimed at large companies rather than SMBs.

The line between HCM and a core HRIS is mostly scope. An HRIS keeps the essentials - records, leave, compensation, roles. An HCM suite stacks talent, payroll, and planning on top, with the price and setup to match.

SMBs are often sold an HCM suite and use a fraction of it. If the team mainly needs records, leave, and an audit trail, core HR covers that without the weight of a full platform.

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