Keep it simple

Need a little help rather than a lot? Try small-scale custom solutions.

I recommend: Contact CommonOffice, which offers solutions such as VacationManager or Timesheet Manager at prices starting at about $75 per month.

Use your human resources information systems (HRIS) to empower your employees

More HR software solutions allow employees to update their personal information, review recent paychecks and calculate vacation or sick leave, saving you valuable time.

I recommend: Get HR Office, an affordable small business HR program that has an employee self-service function.

Track your recruiting

Applicant-tracking software from can identify the best candidates responding to your job ads.

I recommend: Try RecruitTrack or RESUMate to schedule appointments, store resumes and more.

Motivate your team

Performance reviews keep employees clear on their roles. But the process takes a disciplined approach and software can help managers stay on track.

I recommend: SuccessFactors organizes employee reviews and feedback.

Get outside help

If you can't afford your own HR staff, look for IT companies that will manage key human resource software functions remotely with Web functionality.

I recommend: Consider iVantage, a program through which small businesses can rent a full Web-based system managed by Spectrum HR and accessible through a high-speed Internet connection.

Find a comprehensive solution

Small-scale solutions not enough? Fast-growing businesses may benefit from some of the many comprehensive HR software programs on the market.

I recommend: Contact Microsoft for its Dynamics GP Enterprise package, which provides a complete management system including customized interview forms, retirement plan calculations, overtime pay rates and software to manage employee information.

Solve your biggest hassles

Recruiting, hiring and disciplining employees are some of the toughest HR issues for small business owners. A few software shortcuts can help.

I recommend: Get Sapien software, which has a case management function for disciplinary and grievance issues plus an online solution to check the references and backgrounds of job applicants.