How Vendor Management Systems (VMS) continue to reinvent themselves!

Vendor Management Systems (VMS), such as Beeline, Nétive, and SAP Fieldglass, have become an indispensable part of the workforce ecosystem in recent years. These systems were originally designed to help companies manage their temporary workforce supply chain. However, in today’s dynamic labor market, these systems continuously reinvent themselves to meet the changing needs of their clients.

One of the main ways VMS systems are reinventing themselves is by improving the user experience. Initially, these systems were developed primarily to support the hiring process from a procurement and compliance perspective, with less focus on the hiring managers and temporary talent. Under pressure from new market entrants like Wand and SimplifyVMS, which offer innovative, intuitive interfaces, the original providers have made many improvements to the user interface in recent years to enhance the user experience.

Another area where VMS systems are reinventing themselves is the integration of advanced technologies. While these systems already utilize data intelligence, the addition of predictive analytics, for example, opens up even more possibilities for intelligently supporting users.

In short, VMS systems can continue to evolve and add increasing value to organisations by incorporating additional functionalities. Some recent examples of new features announced by SAP Fieldglass, alongside general improvements to the user interface, include:

• Seamless integration with timekeeping and/or clock systems, enabling the integration of data from time recording systems into the VMS. Fieldglass will now offer the ability to convert working hours into different hourly rates according to the collective labor agreement.
• The addition of Service Procurement functionalities for creating, managing, approving, and billing task-oriented activities, such as cleaning, machine maintenance, or ticket processing at a service center.
• Integration of feedback tools, like Qualtrix XM, to continuously gather information on stakeholders’ needs and how services can be improved by interactively connecting with SAP Fieldglass.
• Advanced integrations with other HCM systems like SAP SuccessFactors to support a Total Talent approach.

Similar improvements are seen among other VMS providers. The addition of new functionalities and the application of MI and AI are happening at an ever-increasing pace. Careful implementation of these innovations in existing processes and programs is crucial for realizing actual returns. It is essential for organizations using a VMS to regularly evaluate and adapt to changes in the labor market and the new possibilities offered by their chosen VMS.