Applicant Tracking Systems (ATS) replace the traditional tools for managing a recruiting and hiring process with technology. If you’d like to stop having to consolidate data from spreadsheets and hand-written notes – and having to find stored resumes in filing cabinets – then an ATS is for you.
ATS Functions
A full-featured ATS does a lot more than store data electronically. Today’s products can automate all the steps involved in posting a job, including screening resumes for key words. They can also coordinate the schedules of the hiring manager and recruiter as they prepare for interviews.
In addition, some ATS packages can initiate requests for background checks and track key data such as the time needed to fill a position, the cost to fill it, and EEOC compliance information if needed.
Which ATS Is Right for You?
Today, almost all ATS software is cloud-based, software as a service (SaaS). Some of these products are designed to meet the needs of recruiters. These are specialized agencies that serve multiple corporate clients. Their chief concern is to maintain a large pool of job candidates, with the ability to find, sort, and match them to their clients’ needs.
ATS software designed for use in-house by a single company tends to focus on compatibility with existing systems and a broad feature set that allows the user to manage the recruiting, hiring, and on-boarding process from end to end. According to SoftwareAdvice.com, iCIMS, BALANCEtrak, COMPAS, or Simplicant may be the best fit for in-house business use. The article also provides a list of the 10 popular ATS products accompanied by links and customer reviews.