Choosing Applicant Tracking Systems (ATS)

On February 16, 2025 By newsroom Topic: Business Services Buyers Guide

Applicant Tracking Systems (ATS) streamline hiring processes by helping companies manage job applications, candidate data, and recruitment workflows. Here's a breakdown of the features, functionality, and benefits:


Key Features of ATS

  • Functionality
  • Ease of Use: Intuitive dashboards enhance productivity for recruiters.
  • Responsiveness: Mobile-friendly designs allow candidates to apply via smartphones or tablets.
  • Real-Time Upgrades: Ensure the system stays up-to-date with recruitment trends.
  • Referrals: Vendors often provide client references to showcase effectiveness.

  • Installation Process

  • Website Integration: Some ATS systems can seamlessly integrate into company websites for branding purposes.
  • Multiple-System Integration: For large-scale operations, ATS can connect with HR and payroll systems.
  • Training Programs: Some vendors offer training for smooth adoption by HR teams.

  • Social Media & Job Board Integration

  • Social Media Sync: Enables one-click job postings to major platforms.
  • Video Features: Supports video interviews and candidate submissions.
  • Notifications: Alerts for new applications and updates at various recruitment stages.

  • Growth Capacity

  • Scalability: ATS should accommodate a growing talent pool as businesses expand.
  • Database Limits: Be mindful of data or user restrictions in the system.

  • Customer Support

  • Local Support: Some vendors offer onshore support; others outsource to offshore teams.
  • Response Times: Choose a provider known for quick tech issue resolution.
  • Support Fees: Subscription-based support often ensures faster access to help.

  • Pricing Structures

  • One-Time Fees: Offers access for a set duration (less common for cloud-based systems).
  • Flat Rate Subscriptions: Fixed monthly or annual pricing regardless of business size.
  • Variable Subscriptions: Costs vary depending on the number of users or applications processed.
  • Storage-Based Fees: Adjusts monthly based on data or applicant volume.

Specialized ATS Features

  • Customization Options
  • Recruitee: Customizable dashboards and 18-day free trials.
  • Fitzii: Free ATS with add-ons for screening and branding.

  • Mobile Optimization

  • Zoho Recruit: Mobile-optimized and job board integration.
  • Lever: Sleek design with collaborative email and analytics.

  • Advanced Analytics & Reporting

  • BambooHR: Centralized reporting for HR and hiring data.
  • ClearCompany: Syncs company goals with hiring processes.

  • Social Media Integration

  • CATS ATS: Social media job sharing and a 14-day free trial.
  • HiringThing: Quick job posting on social networks.

  • Scalable Solutions

  • Big Biller: Ideal for recruitment agencies focusing on CRM and task workflows.
  • Hyrell: Offers four pricing plans, tailored for scalable growth.

Types of Applicant Tracking Systems

  • Recruitment Agency Systems
  • Candidate-centric features for large databases and robust search functionalities.

  • In-House Systems

  • Streamlined data-sharing and onboarding processes tailored for internal recruitment.

Who's It For?

  • Recruitment Agencies
  • Tools like Big Biller, JobDiva, and Crelate Talent help agencies streamline applicant filtering and client relations.

  • In-House Employers

  • Options like iCIMS, BambooHR, and Lever optimize internal hiring and onboarding processes.

  • Small to Medium Businesses

  • Fitzii, SmartRecruiters, and Jazz ATS provide cost-effective solutions for limited budgets.

  • Large Enterprises

  • Platforms like SAP SuccessFactors and Greenhouse cater to extensive hiring needs with advanced analytics and integrations.

Why Choose an ATS?

  • Efficiency
  • Reduces time spent on repetitive tasks like sorting resumes.

  • Improved Candidate Experience

  • Responsive and mobile-friendly systems enhance user accessibility.

  • Data Insights

  • Analytics tools provide insights into hiring trends and candidate pipelines.

  • Scalability

  • Grows with the company, adapting to increasing recruitment needs.

Summing it up

  • Free Trials/Demos: Many ATS systems offer trial periods, such as CATS ATS (14 days) and Fitzii (customized free options).
  • Mobile & Cloud-Based: Cloud-based systems (e.g., Pereless Systems, ApplicantStack) allow seamless integration and accessibility.
  • Customizable Features: Platforms like Zoho Recruit and Recruitee stand out for branding and tailored portals.

Choose an ATS that aligns with your organization's size, recruitment goals, and budget for the best results!


Next: Read 2500+ consumer guides to shopping, electronics, appliances, home services, cars, money and more.
If you liked all this, consider supporting us by checking out Tiny Skills - 250+ Top Work & Personal Skills Made Easy

The Success Manuals


The Career Advice Bible

100+ Most Important Career Questions
Finally Answered

318 Pages | $5 | PDF & EPub, Kindle Ready

250 Top Work & Personal Skills Made Easy

The First & Only Encyclopedia of Self Help,
Self Improvement & Career Advice

250+ Easy-to-Follow Guides
5000+ Proven Tips

13 Types of Essential Skills Covered
Get The Value of 100+ Best Books in 1 Book.

502 Pages | $5 | PDF / EPub, Kindle Ready