Our star ratings are calculated based on an in-house algorithm that we created with the aim of bringing our readers objective, transparent reviews.
At TechRepublic, we value full transparency when it comes to our research methods, hands-on testing experience and payroll rating methodology. To that end, we created an in-house algorithm to calculate star ratings for each payroll software product we review.
While our algorithm is subject to change — and while brands’ star ratings may change as their plans and products adapt to customers’ changing needs — we currently calculate our payroll software ratings based on the five key areas below. Each area is weighted to reflect the category’s importance to our audience of tech stakeholders.
Our payroll review methodology breaks down as follows.
Jump to:
Pricing
Pricing accounts for 25% of our total score. This category’s ranking factors include but are not limited to the following:
- Free trial information.
- Payment options (e.g., annual vs. monthly plans).
- Pricing transparency.
- Highest and lowest tier pricing.
- Additional fees.
Features
Payroll features account for 35% of our total score. This category’s ranking factors include but are not limited to the following:
- Unlimited payroll runs.
- Self-service payroll features.
- Full-service payroll features.
- New-hire reporting.
- Third-party integrations, especially accounting software integrations.
- Time tracking.
- Reporting.
- Onboarding and hiring features.
- Wage garnishment.
- Benefits administration.
Ease of use
Ease of use accounts for 15% of our total score. This category’s ranking factors include but are not limited to the following:
- Mobile payroll apps for employees.
- Mobile payroll apps for employers.
- Overall user experience.
- Site design.
- Ease of setup.
- Workflow automations.
- General accessibility.
Customer service
Customer service accounts for 15% of our total score. This category’s ranking factors include but are not limited to the following:
- Modes of customer support, including live chat, email, phone support and online help desks.
- Hours of availability.
- Customer support team responsiveness.
- Extra fees for customer care.
- White-glove setup.
Expert analysis
Our expert’s analysis accounts for 15% of our total score. This category’s ranking factors include but are not limited to the following:
- Availability of researchable information.
- Standout features.
- Unique pros.
- Crucial downsides.
- Our experts’ hands-on testing experience.
- Information gleaned from demo calls.
Our payroll evaluation research methods
To effectively score each brand we review, we prioritize our own in-house, hands-on testing experience. We also consider available demos, product space, information from sales representatives and verified customer reviews on sites that include but are not limited to the following:
- The Better Business Bureau.
- Consumer Affairs.
- Gartner Peer Insights.
- Trustpilot.
- Google Play.
- The App Store.
Read next: A Complete Guide to Payroll Software (TechRepublic)
Featured payroll solutions
1
Justworks
Visit website
Justworks Payroll is a lightweight solution that simplifies Payroll and HR operations so you can focus on what matters most – running your business. Our user-friendly navigation, paired with reliable support, helps you monitor and maintain compliance, onboard and manage your teams, and navigate the complex world of payroll with confidence.
Designed for today’s needs and tomorrow’s ambitions, our adaptable solutions will elevate your operations & provide the tools for your business to thrive.
Learn more about Justworks
2
Workforce Now – ADP
Visit website
ADP Workforce Now serves clients across nearly every industry who are looking to manage their human capital management needs across payroll, HR, benefits, talent, and time and labor, among others. ADP Workforce Now provides clients with custom-tailored solutions that fit their organization, so they can save time and money while getting expert support and accuracy.
Learn more about Workforce Now – ADP
3
Paycor
Visit website
Payroll can be a time-consuming, administrative task for HR teams. Paycor’s solution is an easy-to-use yet powerful tool that gives you time back in your day. Quickly and easily pay employees from wherever you are and never worry about tax compliance again. Key features like general ledger integration, earned wage access, AutoRun, employee self-service and detailed reporting simplify the process and help ensure you pay employees accurately and on time.
Learn more about Paycor
This post originally appeared on TechToday.