Human Resource Management System
In support of Washington Works, the state will be implementing a new human resource management system (HRMS) that will replace the existing statewide payroll/personnel system.
Why a new system?
Washington State's existing payroll/personnel computer system is a 27 year-old mainframe system that has undergone a number of significant changes over the years. Adapting it to the demands of the 21st century requires a total overhaul.
The Personnel System Reform Act of 2002 changes many of the basic rules at the very heart of the old system and adds complexity far beyond the original intent of the system. After extensive study and reviewing several options, the state decided a modern, flexible software application would best fulfill the state's immediate and future business needs.
When will the new application be implemented?
Prior to statewide implementation, HRMS will be tested in a smaller group of “early adopter” agencies. The application will be implemented in two phases:
- Phase one (January–April 2005) will provide the basic functionality necessary for the reformed civil service system and collective bargaining
- Phase two (July–December 2005) completes the implementation
What functions will the new application provide?
HRMS will increase analysis and reporting capabilities and provide access to a greatly expanded, statewide data pool. It will handle all payroll processes including employee benefits and regulatory requirements. Employees and managers will be able to access data and perform many personnel transactions on line. It will be capable of managing a variety of innovative reward strategies, including performance and competency-based pay and long-term incentives.
In addition, it will:
- Provide processes for managing and communicating organizational structure and policy information;
- Support workflow studies, cost planning and simulation; and
- Help manage documents and data through versioning, comprehensive classification, and search capabilities.
Will user training be available?
To help with the transition to the new system, the project will build a network that extends to every agency. This network will be used to increase awareness among state employees, distribute project information, provide coaching and support to designated agency representatives and power users, and deliver training to end users.
More Questions?
If you are accessing the Internet using a state computer and you still have questions, check out the HRMS Intranet Questions and Answers page.