Workday: Next Generation HCM Technology Evaluation
Introduction
NelsonHall conducted a comprehensive evaluation of Workday's performance in the Next Generation HCM Technology market, focusing on the mid/large company segment. Workday was identified as a Leader in this segment, highlighting its ability to meet future client requirements and deliver immediate benefits.
Vendor Analysis Summary for Workday
Overview
Workday, Inc., headquartered in Pleasanton, CA, provides cloud-based HR and finance software via a SaaS model. As of January 2018, Workday supported approximately 2,100 HCM and 450 Financial Management clients, with 20 Fortune 50 companies and about 35% of the Fortune 500 being HCM subscribers. Key modules include Core HR, Talent Management, Compensation, Benefits, Absence Management, Planning, Recruiting, Learning, Payroll, Time and Attendance, and PRISM Analytics.
Strengths
- Consistent Growth: 50% CAGR since 2013.
- Strong Client Partnership: High customer satisfaction (CSAT at 98%).
- Wide Range of Reference Clients: Diverse across various sizes, geographies, and industries.
- Single Code Line: Simplified integration and updates.
- Rapid Deployment: Average deployment time under 12 months.
- Uptime SLA: 99.89% uptime.
- End-to-End HR Functionality: High adoption across all modules.
- Extensive Partner Network: Supports consulting, implementation, extended services, and integrations.
Challenges
- Competition: SAP/SuccessFactors and Oracle pose significant competition.
- Lack of Reseller Program: Direct sales-only strategy.
- Single Code Line: Seen as a disadvantage by some buyers.
- Premium Pricing: Often perceived as higher than competitors.
- Limited Global Payroll Capability: Currently supports only five countries.
Strategic Direction
To sustain growth, Workday plans:
- Target Middle Enterprise Organizations: Leverage recent wins with large enterprises like Amazon and Siemens.
- Expand Financials Adoption: Increase Financials usage among existing HCM clients.
- Global Expansion: Focus on EMEA and APAC regions, targeting middle, small, and large enterprises.
- Enhanced Implementation Support: Utilize SI partners and open new offices in South Africa, Italy, Thailand, and South Korea.
- Innovative Investments: Platform innovations, analytics, AI, machine learning, NLP, and predictive capabilities.
- Prism Analytics: Develop new streams of revenue through app marketplace.
Overall, Workday demonstrates strong leadership in the mid/large market segment, with a robust strategy for continued growth and innovation.