joyblankenshipWe all know that managing a global payroll process can be a huge undertaking, one which is made more complicated depending on the size of the organization and the number of countries the business operates within. 

In the Tuesday morning workshop “Standardizing Global Payroll Processes,” approximately 120 global payroll professionals engaged with Joy Blankenship, CPP, Director of Global Payroll and Stock Administration, and Randy Davis, Senior Manager for Global Payroll—both from Workday. 

The workshop emphasized that every successful project should start by thoroughly defining the needs of the business and then selecting a model that provides the best standardized reporting solution, which—let’s be honest—is what everyone is looking for, right?

In terms of technology, there is no one-size-fits-all solution, so everyone should select the one that best aligns with their unique global payroll operation. What is essential is that you think about everything in your request for proposal (RFP) so you can ensure your vendor remains accountable going forward. Consider following a country-by-country approach, and be patient and realistic with your timeframes.  Document all your controls as soon as you start rolling out the project, as this will save you significant time (and pain) in the future.

Delivering a successful standardized global payroll process project is a bit like building a house. First, document everything in a plan so everyone is clear about what needs to be built and by when.  Timeframes for the build need to be realistic, and foundations need to be laid from the start. 

Standardizing global payroll processes allows reporting to become much more manageable and will enable you to train new members of your team more successfully. You cannot standardize everything because every global payroll is different. Sometimes you will have to localize, but the key to your successful journey is knowing what you can and cannot standardize. 

Aim for the stars and you may be surprised just how much global payroll standardization you can achieve.

Nick Day, MA, BA, REC DipRP, CIR, AIRP, is Managing Director at James Gray Associates.