Now is the time to put your payroll in the cloud
WITH REMOTE work currently in full effect in Jamaica, business leaders are no doubt reimagining their operations to ensure that they are fit for purpose. That’s why now is the perfect time for businesses to implement Cloudbased payroll solutions. Some of the obvious benefits of this move include: disaster-proof uninterrupted availability to the payroll systems, with only the need of internet access – counting data on a mobile device; lower start-up costs with the need for on-premise servers eliminated; lower operating costs, since there is no need to have in-house expertise for the up-keep of the system; and, depending on the provider, up-todate compliance with Tax Administration Jamaica’s (TAJ) payroll calculations. Right now, businesses with an on-premise solution that they wish to move to the Cloud, will immediately need to deal with some migration considerations as part of the plan. However, a good payroll service provider will offer a roadmap,which delivers such a solution quickly; and cost efficiently, so that no payroll run is missed; and employees are supported during this time of social distancing, quarantine and curfews. A cloud-based payroll solution, with its anytime, anywhere capabilities, is very useful at a time when employee’s working hours are dynamic; and, for some sectors, more workers need to be onboarded right away. Chad Gordon, commercial manager, Payroll Solutions, MC Systems, explains that, “The ideal payroll solution provides employers with immediate insight into the full cost of the new hires, where applicable; and gives business leaders confidence that since it’s in the Cloud, its calculations are always tax compliant.” Security is another major assurance that business leaders can bank on with this solution. Having to quickly move their operation from all staff coming to the plant, to now having a distributed workforce, brings the understandable concern about the protection of the systems from unwelcome breaches. The great thing is that payroll in the Cloud solutions tend to have security protocols, which are far superior to the typical company’s IT Infrastructure security. “Companies making a choice about a Cloud-based payroll service provider should ensure the one they choose has the type of security that protects their data; the access portal, and one that has robust disaster recovery procedures, to protect against a range of disruptions,” Gordon advises. Companies which are ready to make the move should also consider the following questions, to ensure that they select the right provider: 1. What type of redundancy is in place (if any) to mitigate the effects of system disruptions: natural disasters, power outages, or internet downtime? 2. Where is the data stored? 3. Who has access to the system and data? 4. Will there be any system downtime, during working hours, for system maintenance? 5. Do you have a documented change management process to install system updates?
A PAYROLL LOAN APP FOR STAFF
One helpful payroll-related offering, that specifically benefits staff is an app-based, “payroll loan service.” In 2018, MC Systems launched an app which makes it possible for employees to get loans within minutes, by submitting a request in an app from the privacy of “anywhere” they may be. The BizPay Cash App uses the employee’s payroll data, along with the predetermined credentials, agreed by the employer; and empowers the employee to access emergency funds ahead of a pay day cycle. In these uncertain times, such a solution delivers on convenience, speed, and security. If businesses are up and running, then people are working. A Cloud-based payroll solution stays on the job with accurate tax-compliant calculations,which are convenient and safe whenever and wherever it is needed. And right now, the company can count on a convenient payroll loan app to give their employees an extra hand.