6 Ways Technology Can Reduce Payroll Errors
An effective payroll system should be as transparent as possible, with as few opportunities for human error as possible. While there’s no such thing as a completely error-proof system, the more you use modern technology to simplify and digitize your processes, the fewer mistakes you’ll make and the less you’ll spend on rectifying those mistakes that do happen. This roundup of six ways technology can help prevent payroll errors will give you some ideas on how to implement technology in your own office and reduce the amount of time and money you spend on payroll each year.
1) Eradicate Manual Data Entry
One of the primary ways technology can reduce payroll errors is by using tools that completely eliminate manual data entry. Since manually entering data often leads to errors, it's helpful to use a system that will automate any processes that involve human input. For example, you can use an electronic time clock and biometric fingerprint verification systems in order to automate and streamline employee timekeeping and clocking in/out processes. And don't forget: An automated timekeeping system may also help you discover when your employees are sneaking extra hours on their time cards; with an app like ours, you can see which days and times your employees tend to add hours (and whether they've changed their login information). It's yet another way technology can make it harder for staff members to commit payroll fraud!
2) Use two-factor authentication
With two-factor authentication, in addition to your password you also have to provide a code generated by an authenticator app or text message sent to your mobile phone. This technology keeps hackers out of your account even if they've stolen your password. For example, Google supports two-factor authentication on its popular Gmail webmail service. On many sites that support it, two-factor authentication is often enabled by default—so you don't have to remember another password—but enable it regardless. Better safe than sorry!
3) Utilize Automatic Timekeeping Solutions
While it may be tempting to rely on your employees to keep track of their hours, it’s far easier—and less stressful—to utilize automatic timekeeping solutions. Automatic timekeeping can decrease payroll errors by up to 70 percent, thanks to the many tools available today. Solutions like Workforce Time Tracker allow businesses of all sizes to not only track employee work hours but also manage overtime pay and payroll audits. Automatic timekeeping is especially beneficial for companies with large staff who have a hard time tracking hours manually.
4) Take Advantage of Mobile Technology
Whether you use a hand-held computer, tablet, or smartphone to complete your payroll, be sure to take advantage of their mobility. You can distribute paychecks directly to employees in less time than ever before, which is great for busy HR managers and improves productivity. If you want to control payroll costs, you should also consider how much time is lost when employees are clumped around check-out lines waiting for their pay stubs. Employees can now print pay stubs from their computers at home or using mobile technology. It will cut down on waste and reduce workplace errors because transactions are no longer being handled by humans who have memory problems when it comes to things like social security numbers and other employee information required during transaction processing.
5) Start using Payroll Software
If you’re not using automated payroll software to manage your payroll, it’s time to start. If you use paper forms or spreadsheets to handle your payroll, you needlessly put yourself and your employees at risk for error and possible fines. Employees can often complete their own information and keep their files up-to-date by entering information electronically into a form that gets submitted directly into an online payroll system. As long as employee records are kept up-to-date and correct, human error will be reduced considerably when it comes time to pay everyone on payday.









