Paylocity Review: An HCM Solution for Growing Businesses
- Lexie Ward
- Apr 16
- 3 min read
Paylocity is a cloud-based Human Capital Management (HCM) platform designed to simplify HR and payroll processes. With a strong focus on automation, employee engagement, and compliance, it provides a well-rounded suite of tools, making it a popular choice for small and mid-sized businesses (SMBs).
This review takes an in-depth look at its key features and benefits to help you determine if it’s the right fit for your organization.
Key Features That Set Paylocity Apart
1. Intuitive User Interface & Mobile Accessibility
A modern design and robust mobile app make HR management easy for both employees and administrators. Users can access key HR functions from anywhere, reducing reliance on manual processes.
2. Employee Self-Service Portal
With a centralized self-service platform, employees can handle payroll inquiries, benefits management, and PTO requests independently—freeing up HR teams for strategic tasks.
3. Payroll & Tax Automation
Paylocity ensures accurate payroll processing with automated tax calculations, direct deposits, and compliance tracking. Businesses operating in multiple states benefit from its streamlined tax management capabilities.
4. Time & Attendance Management
From mobile time tracking to geofencing and overtime calculations, Paylocity helps SMBs maintain accurate records of employee hours while integrating seamlessly with payroll.
5. Recruiting & Onboarding Solutions
Built-in applicant tracking and digital onboarding tools help businesses attract top talent, manage candidates efficiently, and create a smooth transition for new hires.
6. Performance & Learning Development
Goal-setting, performance reviews, and a built-in Learning Management System (LMS) support ongoing employee development, improving retention and workforce productivity.
7. Employee Engagement & Recognition Tools
Paylocity’s social collaboration features—including peer recognition, video messaging, and internal communication tools—help build a stronger workplace culture.
8. Advanced Analytics & Real-Time Reporting
Customizable dashboards provide HR teams with workforce insights, including turnover trends, payroll expenses, and compliance adherence.
Breaking Down Paylocity’s Core Modules
Payroll & Tax Management
Automates salary processing, tax filings, and deductions.
Reduces payroll errors with built-in compliance tools.
Supports multi-state payroll and direct deposits.
HR & Workforce Management
Centralized employee records and compliance tracking.
Digital document storage for streamlined HR processes.
Reduces administrative overhead with automated workflows.
Recruiting & Onboarding
Streamlines job postings, interview scheduling, and candidate evaluations.
Digital onboarding reduces paperwork and speeds up employee integration.
Time & Attendance Tracking
Mobile-friendly time tracking with geofencing capabilities.
Automated overtime calculations and PTO tracking.
Ensures compliance with labor laws and wage regulations.
Performance & Learning Development
Customizable goal-setting and structured performance evaluations.
Employee development tools with built-in training modules.
Benefits Administration
Seamless benefits enrollment and carrier integrations.
Employees can view and select benefits via a self-service portal.
Compliance & Risk Management
Tracks evolving labor laws, tax policies, and OSHA regulations.
Helps businesses stay ahead of compliance risks with automated updates.
Why SMBs Choose Paylocity
Cost-Effective & Scalable – A flexible pricing model that grows with your business.
User-Friendly Interface – Intuitive design for easy navigation and quick adoption.
Strong Payroll & Compliance Tools – Simplifies payroll management while reducing compliance risks.
Employee Engagement Focus – Social collaboration tools foster a positive work environment.
Robust Reporting & Analytics – Data-driven insights help optimize HR strategies.
Third-Party Integrations – Connects with existing business software for seamless operations.
Final Verdict: Is Paylocity the Right Choice for Your Business?
Paylocity is a powerful HCM solution tailored to small and mid-sized businesses looking for a balance between automation, usability, and employee engagement. While it may not offer the AI-driven automation of some enterprise-grade platforms, its affordability, flexibility, and feature-rich suite make it a strong contender for SMBs aiming to streamline HR and payroll operations.
For companies focused on workforce efficiency, compliance, and a more engaged company culture, Paylocity delivers a comprehensive solution that’s both user-friendly and future-ready.
ROCKCREST helps small and mid-sized businesses implement, optimize, and integrate Paylocity to meet their unique HR and payroll needs. Whether you're just getting started or ready to take your system to the next level, our consultants can support you every step of the way.
Learn more about our Paylocity services or contact us to start a conversation.