Introduction

Selecting the right human resource information system (HRIS) can significantly impact the efficiency and effectiveness of an organization's HR operations. Two popular HRIS tools are UKG Pro and Sapling. UKG Pro is a cloud-based human capital management (HCM) solution for midsize and large organizations that helps manage people's pay. On the other hand, Sapling, a Kallidus product, enhances onboarding, offboarding, core HR, and people operations through Kallidus’ expertise in learning, performance, talent management, and learning content. Comparing these tools is crucial for finding the best fit for specific organizational needs.

​

UKG Pro Overview

Key Features

UKG Pro offers a comprehensive suite of HR functionalities designed to support large-scale organizations:

​

• Payroll Management: Automates payroll processing and ensures compliance with tax regulations.
• Benefits Administration: Simplifies benefits management, including health insurance, retirement plans, and other employee perks.
• Talent Management: Manages the entire employee lifecycle from recruitment to retirement.
• Performance Management: Tools for performance reviews, goal setting, and tracking employee progress.
• Workforce Management: Schedules workforce, tracks time and attendance, and manages labor costs.
• Analytics and Reporting: Provides detailed analytics and custom reports to help organizations make data-driven decisions.
• Mobile Access: Allows employees to access HR functionalities via mobile devices.

​

Sapling Overview

Key Features

Sapling combines core HR features with Kallidus’ expertise in learning and performance management:

​

• Onboarding and Offboarding: Streamlines the process, ensuring a smooth transition for new hires and departing employees.
• Core HR: Manages employee data, including personal information, job details, and compliance documents.
• People Operations: Enhances workflows and automates repetitive HR tasks.
• Learning and Development: Integrates Kallidus learning management system for training and development programs.
• Performance Management: Facilitates performance reviews and continuous feedback.
• Analytics and Reporting: Offers insights into HR metrics and employee performance.
• Integration Capabilities: Syncs with other business applications, such as payroll and scheduling systems.

​

Similarities

UKG Pro and Sapling share several key similarities as HRIS tools:

​

• HR Data Management: Both tools offer robust solutions for managing employee data, including personal information, job roles, and compliance requirements.
• Performance Management: Each platform includes tools for performance reviews, goal setting, and tracking.
• Analytics and Reporting: Both provide detailed analytics to help organizations make data-driven decisions.
• Integration: Both UKG Pro and Sapling can integrate with other business applications.
• Mobile Access: Both platforms offer mobile access, allowing employees to engage with HR functionalities on the go.

​

Differences

While UKG Pro and Sapling share many similarities, there are notable differences that may influence an organization's choice:

​

• Organization Size: UKG Pro is tailored for midsize and large organizations, whereas Sapling is well-suited for small to midsize companies.
• Payroll Management: UKG Pro has comprehensive payroll management capabilities, whereas Sapling lacks extensive payroll features.
• Benefits Administration: UKG Pro offers a robust benefits administration module, which is less emphasized in Sapling.
• Learning and Development: Sapling benefits from Kallidus’ strong learning and development features, which are more comprehensive compared to UKG Pro's offerings.
• User Interface: Sapling is known for its user-friendly interface, making it easier for employees to navigate, while UKG Pro's interface may be more complex due to its extensive functionalities.

​

Pros and Cons

UKG Pro

Pros:

• Comprehensive payroll and benefits management.
• Excellent workforce management tools.
• Robust talent management capabilities.
• Detailed analytics and reporting.
• High customization options.

​

Cons:

• May be complex for smaller organizations.
• Requires significant time for implementation and training.
• Higher cost compared to other HRIS tools.

​

Sapling

Pros:

• User-friendly interface, easy to navigate.
• Strong onboarding and offboarding processes.
• Excellent integration with learning and development tools.
• Automated workflows improve efficiency.
• Cost-effective for small to midsize organizations.

​

Cons:

• Limited payroll management features.
• Benefits administration is less comprehensive.
• May not suit very large organizations with complex HR needs.

​

Use Cases

UKG Pro

UKG Pro is ideal for large organizations that require a comprehensive HRIS with advanced payroll and benefits management. It supports complex workforce management needs and offers in-depth analytics for strategic decision-making. Organizations with robust HR departments that can handle the platform's complexity will benefit the most from UKG Pro.

​

Sapling

Sapling is well-suited for small to midsize companies that prioritize user experience and efficient onboarding and offboarding processes. Its integration with Kallidus’ learning and performance management solutions makes it an excellent choice for organizations focused on continuous employee development. Companies looking to automate repetitive HR tasks and streamline people operations will find Sapling advantageous.

​

Conclusion

When comparing UKG Pro and Sapling, it is important to consider the specific needs of your organization. UKG Pro offers comprehensive HR solutions ideal for larger organizations with complex payroll, benefits, and workforce management needs. Its detailed analytics and high customization options make it a powerful tool for strategic HR management.

​

On the other hand, Sapling excels in user experience and efficient people operations, making it a fantastic choice for small to midsize companies. Its strength in onboarding, offboarding, and integration with Kallidus’ learning and performance management systems provide a seamless HR solution for growing organizations.

​

Ultimately, the choice between UKG Pro and Sapling will depend on the size of your organization, your specific HR requirements, and your preference for user interface and functionality. Organizations needing robust payroll and benefits management should lean towards UKG Pro, while those focusing on user experience and efficient onboarding and people operations may find Sapling to be the better fit.