Applicant Tracking Systems

Practical ideas, real-world stories, and smart strategies for HR tech success.

iCIMS vs HCM applicant tracking system

Applicant Tracking Systems for Companies Under 1,000 Employees

Choosing the right Applicant Tracking System is critical for growing businesses. This comprehensive guide compares eight top ATS platforms for companies under 1,000 employees – evaluating their integrations, features, automation, analytics, and scalability. Discover which ATS fits your needs, from intuitive SMB-friendly tools to powerful, data-driven recruiting solutions.

Behind the Scenes: The Research That Powers Our Vendor Comparisons

Discover why we’ve chosen not to accept referral fees from ATS vendors—and how we use ChatGPT Deep Research to deliver fast, unbiased, and data-backed software evaluations. Learn how to apply the same method yourself and make clearer, more confident decisions about the tools your team depends on.

The Auto-Apply Arms Race and the Mystery of Klaus Grant

During a recent System Admin Insights meeting, we discovered that one “candidate” had submitted over 100 applications—at each company. AI auto-apply tools are flooding systems, but they’re backfiring for job seekers. Here’s why this automation arms race is hurting candidates most—and what needs to change on both sides.

iCIMS Ike comparing HCM bundled ATS options

iCIMS vs. HCM Suites: A Guide for Strategic Talent Leaders

Many companies are considering switching from iCIMS to a bundled HCM platform, but most underestimate what they’ll lose. If you once needed a point solution, you probably still do. This article explores when to switch, when to stay, and how to make the decision with clarity—not just marketing.

iCIMS Ike comparing options

iCIMS vs. the One-Stop-Shop HCM Solutions

We used ChatGPT Deep Research to compare iCIMS, Workday, ADP, SAP, Oracle, UKG, and Dayforce across key ATS and recruiting features. Explore this free, vendor-neutral tool to help you ask smarter questions and navigate the trade-offs between best-of-breed and one-stop-shop HCM recruiting solutions.

The Full Suite Fantasy: Why Your HCM “Solution” Might Be a Beautiful Disaster

The myth of the fully integrated HCM suite is just that—a myth. These platforms promise seamless functionality, but often deliver mediocrity. Best-of-breed solutions, tailored to each function, outperform them. If you’re serious about HR tech ROI, consider specialized tools that excel in their domain instead of the “everything” solution.

System Admin Insights Newsletter

Real-world lessons from the people who make iCIMS work on the client side. Each week, we share insights from system administrators, consultants, and tech leads navigating the realities of iCIMS optimization.

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