3 min read
Implementing an HCM system can feel overwhelming. It doesn’t have to be with the right strategy and support. This step-by-step guide walks you through a smooth HCM implementation, from planning to post-launch optimization.
Start with Strategy: Know Why You’re Implementing
Before diving into setup, get clear on your goals. What are you trying to improve? Is it efficiency, compliance, reporting, employee experience, or a combination of these?
Define your success metrics early. Whether it’s reducing payroll errors, improving onboarding time, or increasing user adoption, know what you’re tracking from the start to help keep the project on track.
Build Your HCM Implementation Team
A successful rollout starts with the right team. Bring in key HR, payroll, finance, IT, and leadership players as each will offer critical input during setup.
Assign clear roles such as:
- A project manager to keep things moving
- A designated data lead to oversee the migration
- A testing coordinator to flag issues before launch
Keep the team lean. Smaller, focused groups tend to make faster decisions and avoid bottlenecks.
Audit and Clean Your Data Before Migration
Data quality matters. A clean system starts with clean, accurate records before anything gets migrated.
Before you migrate anything, fix common issues like:
- Duplicate employee records
- Outdated or incomplete information
- Inconsistent formatting across fields
Give this step the time it deserves. Data cleanup takes longer than expected, but skipping it leads to bigger problems later.
Configure, Test, and Refine Before Launch
Start by tailoring the system to fit your team's workflow. Don’t just mirror old processes; use this opportunity to improve approvals, onboarding, time tracking, and more.
Once your setup is in place, test it with a small group. Run real workflows across payroll, benefits, reporting, and compliance to ensure everything functions as expected.
Log issues, document fixes, and retests. During this stage, Fuse works closely with clients to configure UKG Ready around real-world needs and ensures your system is ready to go live. We’re even with you when you run your first payroll!
Train Your Teams for HCM System Adoption
A successful HCM rollout depends on your people using it confidently.
Start with role-based training that meets each group where they are. HR admins need to understand backend workflows. Managers should be able to approve time and run reports. Employees should know how to update their info, request time off, and access pay stubs.
In addition to live training, offer self-serve resources like quick-start guides, video walkthroughs, and FAQs. Keep communication open with clear points of contact for support.
Prepare for Go-Live
As launch day approaches, make sure your team is ready. Communicate what’s changing, why it matters, and how to access support.
Have a plan in place for handling questions or minor issues. Your plan might include a help channel, open office hours, or a point person for troubleshooting.
Expect a few bumps; that’s part of the process. With solid training and a good communication plan, your rollout can stay on track and stress-free.
Keep Optimizing—Your HCM Rollout Doesn’t End at Launch
Going live is a significant milestone, but real success comes from what you do next.
Track adoption metrics. Ask for feedback. Look for areas where workflows can be refined or additional features rolled out.
The more you optimize, the more value your HCM system delivers.
And you don’t have to do it alone.
Fuse partners with clients well beyond implementation day, helping them adapt, grow, and get the most out of UKG Ready long after the initial rollout.
Need help with your HCM implementation?
Fuse helps organizations get the most out of UKG Ready, from setup to long-term support. Let’s start the conversation now.
