A human resource information system (HRIS), sometimes referred to as human resources management system (HRMS), is software that provides a centralized repository of employee master data that the human resource management (HRM) group needs for completing core human resource (HR) processes.
An HRIS stores, processes and manages employee data, such as names, addresses, national IDs or Social Security numbers, visa or work permit information, and information about dependents. It typically also provides functionality such as recruiting, applicant tracking, time and attendance management, performance appraisals and benefits administration. It may also feature employee self-service functions, and perhaps even accounting functions.
In some ways, an HRIS can be considered a smart database of employee information: The interaction of the data, the processes that can be performed and the reporting capabilities make the data stored in the system more accessible and usable.