What if I don’t want to share applicant information with a third-party vendor?
A hosted solution is by no means your only option. Hosted solutions offer quick implementation options and are generally more cost-effective, but they make it harder to configure the system and pose certain privacy risks, as they database will be stored on the vendor’s servers and not your company’s. You can instead maintain your own database using a commercially available product. If you work for a larger company, you might want to invest in a more all-encompassing HRIS or ERP (Enterprise Resource Planning) system that will help automate other HR functions such as payroll or compensation systems. If your company already uses certain software for one or more HR processes, check to see if the vendor also offers applicant-tracking solutions that can be integrated in your firm’s existing systems. This will make the transition smoother and more efficient, and with only one vendor, you’ll have a single point of contact if you need support.