A Workday HCM analyst is responsible for configuring, testing, and supporting the Workday Human Capital Management (HCM) system. Workday HCM is a cloud-based human resources software that helps organizations manage key HR processes like payroll, benefits, recruitment, and talent management.
Day-to-Day Responsibilities
The day-to-day responsibilities of a Workday HCM analyst can vary depending on the organization, but some typical tasks include:
- Configuring Workday HCM modules and functionalities based on business requirements
- Setting up worker profiles, positions, jobs, compensation plans, and organization hierarchies
- Testing new Workday features, configurations, and integrations before deployment
- Troubleshooting issues and bugs that arise in the system
- Creating reports, dashboards, and workflows as needed by the HR team
- Managing integrations between Workday HCM and other systems like payroll, recruiting, learning management, etc.
- Collaborating with IT teams on technical tasks like systems administration, data loads, and upgrades
- Providing training and support to end-users on how to use Workday HCM
- Staying up-to-date with the latest Workday product updates and releases
In smaller organizations, the Workday HCM analyst may be a one-person team handling all Workday duties. In larger companies, there may be specialized roles like compensation analyst, recruitment analyst, payroll analyst, etc. focusing on specific HCM domains.
Skills Needed
To be successful as a Workday HCM analyst, the following skills are helpful:
- Technical skills – Proficiency with Workday tools and familiarity with HRIS, ERP or cloud-based systems. Ability to write advanced Workday reports, scripts, calculations, etc.
- Analytical skills – Ability to analyze business requirements and translate them into appropriate Workday configurations and process flows.
- Testing skills – Able to methodically test all Workday functionality, integrations and customizations before deployment.
- Communication skills – Can collaborate with various stakeholders including HR, IT, executives, and end-users to implement Workday HCM.
- Training skills – Capable of creating training materials and conducting training sessions to teach employees how to use Workday HCM.
- Problem-solving skills – Ability to identify and troubleshoot issues in Workday as well as recommend solutions.
- Organizational skills – Able to manage multiple tasks, projects, and priorities related to the ongoing maintenance of the Workday system.
Qualifications and Background
Here are some typical qualifications needed to become a Workday HCM analyst:
- Bachelor’s degree in IT, computer science, HR management, or related field
- 2+ years experience in HRIS or ERP systems
- Hands-on experience with Workday HCM modules and tools
- Workday certification like Workday Certified HCM Associate or Workday Certified Professional highly desired
- Experience with HR processes and principles
- Experience with software testing and quality assurance
- Experience with reporting tools like SQL
Many Workday HCM analysts come from an HRIS or IT background. Some start as HR analysts and transition into a Workday role later in their careers. Having both HR and technical knowledge is incredibly valuable for this position.
Implementation Projects
In addition to ongoing Workday support, HCM analysts are heavily involved in new Workday implementation projects. Typical responsibilities during an implementation include:
- Gathering requirements from HR and business leaders on needed configurations
- Mapping out existing HR processes and recommending process changes for optimal use of Workday
- Configuring the system based on requirements and processes
- Integrating Workday HCM with other HR systems as needed
- Creating test cases and executing testing
- Developing training plans and materials
- Assisting with change management and communications
- Leading go-live activities and hypercare support
The Workday HCM analyst plays a critical part in ensuring that the new Workday system is optimized to meet the organization’s unique needs. They work closely with stakeholders throughout the deployment process, guiding configuration decisions and validating readiness for go-live. Their deep knowledge of the system makes them invaluable during implementations.
Career Growth
The role of Workday HCM analyst provides a solid foundation for a long-term career in HR technology. Here are some potential career paths for Workday HCM analysts:
- Workday Consultant – After several years of experience, analysts may move into consulting roles where they work on implementations across multiple client organizations.
- HRIS or HR Technology Manager – With strong experience, analysts can advance into managerial roles overseeing a team of HR technology professionals.
- Director of HR Systems – This role provides strategic oversight for all HR systems within an organization.
- Workday Project Manager – Analysts can also transition into project management specifically for large Workday deployments.
The skills gained as a Workday HCM analyst – domain knowledge, technical proficiency, project experience – provide a strong foundation for career growth. Many analysts move up to lead large, complex Workday implementations across a variety of global organizations.
Conclusion
Workday HCM analysts play a vital role in configuring, supporting, and enhancing the HR system. They partner closely with business and HR leaders to optimize Workday HCM to meet the organization’s needs. The ability to understand both the technical and human resources aspects of Workday makes them invaluable contributors. For those interested in HR technology, a career as a Workday HCM analyst provides fantastic opportunities to gain expertise and experience with a market-leading platform.