Applicant Tracking Systems - highest recruitment ROI?

Thanks for tuning in again this week folks....I promise that my ATS comments will be my most controversial yet. I might even get a few calls from my ATS providing partners to see if I have lost my mind. Hopefully I at least get a few replies.

When clients ask me about Applicant Tracking Systems, I almost always have the same comment.......an ATS is great, just know that at the end of the day an ATS does not source people. I usually get a blank stare for a few minutes, then a lively discussion follows.

I view an ATS as an enabling technology platform, a platform that ideally automates workflow and processes for a modern and flexible recruitment function. Does this platform contribute greatly to a best in class recruiting function…..of course! I am simply challenging recruitment leaders to give some serious thought to the recruitment ROI of an ATS. All of us whom have survived a big ATS implementation will undoubtedly say the same things about the experience – a lot of work and expensive. If an organizations biggest recruitment challenge is sourcing top talent candidates.....is an ATS the answer? Maybe, but maybe not. Other recruitment strategies and programs might have a bigger impact from a recruitment ROI perspective. Give this thought before you commit to a long and possibly expensive ATS implementation for your clients.

Next week – training (or lack there of) for Canadian Recruitment Professionals.