Hand over the payroll headache

Payroll isn't only about paying employees promptly. There's recordkeeping, calculation and payment of payroll taxes, and more. Monthly or quarterly tax reports are managed by ADP, as is end-of-the-year paperwork.

I recommend: To learn more about outsourcing your payroll, go to ADP's outsourcing and payroll management Web site.

Let the pros tackle taxes and regulations

You are likely quite good at what you do, but chances are, taxes and laws are not your areas of expertise. ADP tracks, monitors and applies payroll tax laws to your business, so that you don't have to. Furthermore, ADP can help protect your company from penalties due to mistakes or late filings with new hire reporting.

I recommend: Check out ADP's tax compliance products and services.

Take advantage of HR help

Many small businesses don't have the luxury of a full human resources department yet it's a critical area of business. Analyze whether it's worth outsourcing the function compared to the cost of building your own in-house staff. ADP, for example, offers EasyHire, an Internet solution for pre- and post-hire HR needs. It includes unlimited HR support and an intuitive online applicant screening process. It provides background checking, job fit assessment testing, drug screening and certified HR support, among other services. ADP offers retirement savings program, such as the Simple IRA and ADP 401(k) plan. HR services also include tools for time and labor management, workers compensation and more.

I recommend: Check out ADP's Easy Hire , Premium Only Plan, Simple IRA, and 401(k) offerings.

Look before you buy

ADP is a large company with a large number of clients and, like any industry leader, has its fans and foes.Chances are you know someone with first-hand operating experience with ADP products who can give you the customer's point of view.

I recommend: Read love 'em/hate 'em comments from ADP customers at Epinions.com.