Online tool to help with disciplinary processes

STRINGENT labour laws have created somewhat of a minefield for employers to navigate when it comes to disciplinary procedures.

Employers who are not up to date with the legislation could find themselves in hot water.

Research reveals that employers lose about 60% of cases referred to the Commission for Conciliation, Mediation and Arbitration by disgruntled employees or their union representatives.

Losing a CCMA case has three distinct drawbacks: the employer is usually found to be financially liable; the business’s reputation is damaged and a record of wrongful dismissal or treatment is made; and precious business hours are lost while attending CCMA hearings, hampering productivity and morale.

NeTrec managing director Thomas Matthee says there are four main reasons why employers lose.

“The first is that they do not follow the correct disciplinary procedures. In the eyes of the law, ignorance is no excuse. The second occurs when employers fail to act consistently, for example, when one employee is more harshly disciplined than another for a similar offence.

“Third, employers lose cases because they fail to hold a procedurally fair hearing. There are strict steps to follow and if this is not adhered to, the employer is in trouble. The last is the failure to maintain a reliable and accurate document trail throughout the disciplinary process.”

This week, the biggest HR conference in Africa – the HR Indaba – was at the Sandton Convention Centre. It was based on the theme of unlocking true potential. To a degree, the disciplinary process is designed to do just that – help employees unlock their true potential.

“In many cases, the purpose of the disciplinary process is to correct an employee’s path, to help them improve and learn from their mistakes,” says Matthee. “Yet, too often, employers approach discipline incorrectly, leading to costly CCMA cases, further disgruntled employees and a sour experience for all parties.”

As one of the exhibitors at the indaba, NeTrec used the opportunity to launch its innovative iRate software platform, designed to empower line managers to take control of their department’s human capital discipline processes – the right way.

“This one-of-a-kind, online industrial relations discipline management system guides businesses through the disciplinary process,” says Matthee. “This ensures HR is following well-governed disciplinary policies and procedures – and adhering to relevant legislation. As it is an online system, it is accessible from any location, at any time.”

The customisable system allows employers to track disciplinary processes throughout the organisation, from the first offence onwards.

With reliable checklists, electronic templates and outcome recommendations, it also ensures that employers maintain procedural fairness and remain within the law.

It is a user-friendly, affordable and subscription-based solution designed for SMEs and enterprise customers.

“iRate was developed handin-hand with legal and HR professionals. We relied on their accumulated expertise to develop a best-of-breed system,” Matthee says.

“The solution effectively addresses South Africa’s strict labour policies and procedures by providing an unbiased, fair and consistent decision engine.

“With electronic records kept of all supporting documents and evidence relating to offences and disciplinary action taken, the tool drives disciplinary action that is corrective and progressive, consistent and procedurally fair.” | Issued by Perfect Word Consulting (Pty) Ltd