Employee Self-Service

Employee Self-Service (ESS), which is a technology-enabled system or platform that empowers employees to access and manage their personal records, benefits, and work-related activities independently, without direct intervention of HR professionals. Through ESS systems, employees can conveniently access their online portals or mobile applications where they can view and update their personal information, download pay statements, request time off, join benefit programs, and perform other administrative functions. Through the self-service facilities, organizations are able to facilitate administrative processes, improve employee engagement and foster transparency in communication among employees and the human resources department.

Example of Employee Self-Service (ESS)

Imagine a giant multinational with thousands of employees stationed in different continents. The HR operations become efficient and employees are empowered by implementing the Employee Self-Service (ESS) portal which can be accessed through the company’s intranet or a dedicated mobile app. The ESS administrative website helps employees to do many different things without HR involvement. These include updating their contact information, reviewing their current benefits coverage online, accessing electronic copies of W-2 forms during tax season and submitting requests for vacation or sick leave. Moreover, the ESS portal can be enhanced with points of contact like training modules, policy statements and company announcements to keep employees informed and interactive. The company utilizes the ESS technology to increase its workforce efficiency, decrease workload and introduce the employees to self-reliance and accountability culture.