What is Applicant Tracking System?

Meaning & Definition

Applicant Tracking System

An Applicant Tracking System (ATS) is a software application that enables organizations to manage and streamline their recruitment and hiring processes. ATS is designed to automate and simplify various aspects of the recruitment process, making it more efficient, organized, and effective for both employers and candidates. It is widely used by businesses of all sizes, from small companies to large enterprises, to handle the entire lifecycle of a job opening, from posting the job to hiring the selected candidate.

Key features and functions of an Applicant Tracking System

• Job Posting

ATS allows employers to create job postings and distribute them to multiple online job boards, company websites, and social media platforms.

• Resume Parsing

The system can automatically parse and extract information from resumes and applications, making it easier to categorize and search through candidate data.

• Candidate Screening

ATS provides tools to filter and screen applicants based on specified criteria, such as qualifications, skills, experience, and keywords.

• Collaborative Hiring

Multiple team members can access and collaborate on candidate evaluations and feedback within the system, facilitating a more collaborative hiring process.

• Candidate Communication

ATS often includes tools for sending automated email notifications and updates to candidates, such as acknowledgments of application receipt and status updates.

• Interview Scheduling

Some systems offer interview scheduling capabilities, allowing recruiters and candidates to schedule interviews more efficiently.

• Candidate Database

ATS maintains a database of candidate profiles, making it easier to manage and revisit potential hires for future job openings.

• Reporting and Analytics

ATS provides insights and analytics to help recruiters and HR professionals track the effectiveness of their recruitment efforts and make data-driven decisions.

• Compliance and Reporting

ATS can help organizations stay compliant with labor laws and regulations by providing tools for reporting and documentation.

• Integration

Many ATS platforms offer integration with other HR and recruiting tools, such as HRIS (Human Resources Information Systems), to create a more seamless hiring process.

The primary benefits of using an Applicant Tracking System include increased efficiency, reduced administrative overhead, improved candidate experiences, and better organization of candidate data. ATS helps organizations better manage their talent acquisition processes, making it easier to identify and hire the most qualified candidates for job openings.