Namely Guide | Based on verified user reviews

Ever wondered how Namely’s users think it performs? Our detailed guide, synthesized from honest user experiences, can help you figure out what works well and what doesn’t. Discover the strengths and weaknesses of Namely before making a purchase decision.

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Payroll and Compensation Management

Payroll Management

Reviewers generally express mixed opinions about Namely’s payroll management capabilities. Some users find the payroll processing to be straightforward and efficient, especially for small companies with simple payroll needs. However, others highlight challenges with certain features like proration, tax management, and reporting functionalities. The system’s ability to streamline payroll tasks and provide accurate calculations is appreciated by some, while others mention difficulties in navigating the tax features and generating customized reports. Despite some positive feedback on payroll processing ease, there are consistent mentions of areas that could be improved to enhance the overall payroll management experience for users. (Source Reviews: 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7, 8, 9, 10, 11, 12, 13, 14, 15)

“Reporting needs major improvement.; Payroll is very limited cannot prorate.; Payroll and Time do not work on same system.; Manage payroll and Time create separate employee numbers rather than one.; Database is restricted.” – Analyst in Finance and Accounting, Health, Wellness and Fitness, 201-500 employees

“Simplified easy payroll processing only needed one payroll person.” – Paraprofessional in Finance and Accounting, Computer Software, 51-200 employees

“If you have everything set up correctly, the payroll process is relatively simple and seamless.; When I have an issue and need to call Namely, I’d say I get the help/answers I need 98% of the time.” – Administrator in Finance and Accounting, Education Management, 201-500 employees

Benefits Administration

Users generally praise Namely’s benefits administration capabilities. The platform is commended for its user-friendly benefits enrollment process, streamlined management of deductions, and efficient handling of open enrollment seasons. While some users have highlighted minor drawbacks such as limitations in custom reporting and certain manual processes, overall, Namely’s benefits administration functionality is viewed positively for its ease of use and effectiveness in managing employee benefits. (Source Reviews: 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7, 8, 9, 10, 11, 12, 13, 14, 15)

“Namely is nice because it has everything all in one place: performance, applicant tracking through Greenhouse, payroll, time off, hourly timesheets, and benefits.” – Employee in Finance and Accounting, Computer Software, 201-500 employees

“Namely offered great employee self-service for open enrollment, payroll, updating profile/job info, and time off. Usability is actually one of the features that I like most about Namely.” – Employee in Product Management, Computer Software, 201-500 employees

“In benefits administration, in life insurance and disability sections, there’s no option to include employees’ bonuses as earnings. Therefore, employees’ coverage and premiums are all incorrect.” – Director in Human Resources, Market Research, 51-200 employees

Compliance and Tax Management

User sentiment regarding Namely’s tax and compliance management features varies. Some users appreciate the platform’s ability to streamline tax processes, such as updating payroll profiles with accurate state and local tax information. However, there are concerns about inaccuracies in tax assignments and missing features like SUI tax rate changes and Workers Comp rate updates. While some users find Namely’s tax and compliance management capabilities beneficial, others feel that there is room for improvement in ensuring accuracy and completeness in tax-related functionalities. (Source Reviews: 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7, 8, 9, 10, 11, 12, 13, 14, 15)

“Namely will automatically update the payroll profile of the employee with the state and local tax for the work or home location, whichever the employer chooses. I have found a few mistakes with the local tax being assigned not matching the Ohio Tax Finder, but for the most part, it is accurate.” – Employee in Finance and Accounting, Computer Software, 201-500 employees

“Namely does not update the SUI Tax Rate Changes or Workers Comp Rate Changes. They also do not file Nevada Modified Business Tax or facilitate a policy for New York Disability and Paid Family Leave. They also do not have a direct feed for premium payments to Ohio Workers Comp nor do they complete the true-up.” – Employee in Finance and Accounting, Computer Software, 201-500 employees

“The tax feature through Manage Payroll is really difficult to navigate, especially when you have multiple places you have to register your organization with a remote workforce.” – Director in Human Resources, Computer Software, 51-200 employees

HRIS and Employee Management

HRIS Solutions

Reviewers generally praise Namely’s HRIS platform capabilities. Users appreciate the user-friendly interface and the ease of navigating through the system. The integration with Adobe Sign for onboarding documents and the ability to customize templates for onboarding processes are highlighted as valuable features. Additionally, the platform’s clean layout and social media-like home page contribute to a positive user experience. Despite some minor drawbacks mentioned, such as limited custom reporting tools and integration with third-party services, overall sentiment leans towards the effectiveness and efficiency of Namely’s HRIS solutions. (Source Reviews: 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7, 8, 9, 10, 11, 12, 13, 14, 15)

“Namely is a user-friendly HRIS that makes daily administrative tasks easy to manage. It’s very easy to learn and use, which is a plus for me as I onboard all of our new hires.” – Administrator in Human Resources, Non-profit Organization Management, 201-500 employees

“There are some pieces that I feel do not live up to our previous provider, but there are also aspects that Namely has that are more beneficial than our previous provider.” – Employee in Finance and Accounting, Computer Software, 201-500 employees

“Namely is aesthetically very pleasing and navigates like other social media platforms which can be appealing to potentially a remote workforce who interacts more online than in person.” – Manager in Human Resources, Warehousing, 51-200 employees

Employee Information Management

User consensus seems to be that employee information management is a strong suit for Namely. Reviewers appreciate the platform’s ability to store and manage employee data efficiently. Users find Namely’s employee information management feature user-friendly and effective in streamlining HR processes. The platform’s centralized approach to employee information garners positive feedback for its ease of access and organization. (Source Reviews: 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7, 8, 9, 10, 11, 12, 13, 14, 15)

“Namely is my source of truth. I used it to storage information about all my employees and to easily get reports and data insights. We use it also for time off control and planning.” – Administrator in Human Resources, Logistics & Supply Chain, 51-200 employees

“Our organization uses Namely as an HRIS. We are able to manage payroll and benefits through this product. Employees can access their year-end documents like W2s, etc, update their personal information, and retrieve pay stubs.” – Director in Human Resources, Computer Software, 51-200 employees

“Namely is the HRIS for our company, from when we were under 50 employees to now over 150 employees. We use it for all Onboarding and document e-signature, all Managed Payroll Services, Benefits Administration & Brokerage, Training & Compliance, PTO tracking, other employee records, and Performance Management.” – Vice-President in Human Resources, Consumer Goods, 51-200 employees

Employee Self-Service

Users consistently highlight Namely’s employee self-service as a standout feature, praising its ease of use and time-saving benefits. The platform’s self-service capabilities have garnered positive feedback for streamlining workflows, improving employee experiences, and increasing engagement. Reviewers appreciate the convenience and efficiency of accessing and managing HR-related tasks through Namely’s self-service functionalities. (Source Reviews: 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7, 8, 9, 10, 11, 12, 13, 14, 15)

“Namely has greatly improved employee self-service. Employee engagement has increased greatly. Once Namely was up and running, the amount of time saved has greatly increased as everything is so easy to use and navigate, and can all be done online.” – Administrator in Human Resources, Leisure, Travel & Tourism, 11-50 employees

“Namely sends out notifications of changes automatically, which is efficient. It saved the time we previously used to communicate HR issues. It can be regarded as employee self-service; cost savings.” – Employee in Finance and Accounting, Computer Software, 201-500 employees

“Employee self-service is easy to access. Saves adequate time.” – Technician in Other, Individual & Family Services, 1001-5000 employees

Talent Management and Development

Onboarding Processes

Users consistently praise Namely’s onboarding processes for their efficiency and user-friendly interface. The platform’s ability to streamline the onboarding experience, from document management to new hire paperwork, has garnered positive feedback. Users appreciate the integration with Adobe Sign for new hire documents, making the process smoother and more organized. Additionally, the platform’s task lists for multi-step projects, like onboarding and offboarding, have been highlighted as particularly helpful in ensuring a structured and efficient onboarding process. Despite some minor concerns about the project management side of onboarding, users generally find Namely’s onboarding processes to be a valuable asset in their HR operations. (Source Reviews: 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7, 8, 9, 10, 11, 12, 13, 14, 15)

“Namely is well suited for new hire onboarding and performance reviews in particular. It’s a great one-stop hub for important, general info about a hire (job title, start date, etc.) We do not use it for payroll or benefits, so I cannot speak on that.” – Employee in Human Resources, Design, 51-200 employees

“Namely has been a lifesaver that has enabled us to get a handle on onboarding, payroll, and employee data. We have just implemented our benefits (open enrollment), and the employee response has been extremely positive.” – Manager in Human Resources, Construction, 51-200 employees

“We were able to transition to a fully digital onboarding process which saved us hours in time per new hire and made the process smoother for the new hire.” – Manager in Human Resources, Management Consulting, 51-200 employees

Performance Management

User opinions on Namely’s performance management functionality are mixed. Some users find the performance review process labor-intensive and challenging to navigate, while others appreciate the customization options and efficiency it provides. There are mentions of room for improvement in terms of robustness and ease of use in the performance management aspect of Namely. (Source Reviews: 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7, 8, 9, 10, 11, 12, 13, 14, 15)

“Namely excels in larger companies with robust workflows for managing performance and career milestones.” – Director in Other, Entertainment, 51-200 employees

“I would recommend Namely if you are looking for a cheap barebones place to maintain employee information. I would not recommend utilizing any of their additional services such as performance reviews.” – Professional in Human Resources, Health, Wellness and Fitness, 51-200 employees

“Namely is well suited for new hire onboarding and performance reviews in particular. It’s a great one-stop hub for important, general info about a hire.” – Employee in Human Resources, Design, 51-200 employees

Goal Setting and Reviews

Reviewers have expressed mixed opinions about Namely’s goal setting and reviews functionality. While some users appreciate the platform’s ability to align individual and organizational goals effectively, others have highlighted challenges with the goal-setting feature, citing issues with integration and automation. The review process itself has been praised for its ease of use and ability to provide a concise overview of performance, but there are suggestions for improvement to enhance the overall value of this feature. Ultimately, user feedback indicates that there is room for enhancement in the goal setting and reviews aspects of Namely. (Source Reviews: 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7, 8, 9, 10, 11, 12, 13, 14, 15)

“The individual and department goals do not speak to each other and do not speak to the organization’s goals. If these were integrated and automated, it would make a world of difference to the value of this feature.” – C-Level Executive in Finance and Accounting, E-Learning, 11-50 employees

“The biggest problem is around goals tracking, quarterly/annual reviews, etc. It is often very hard to ‘get to’ the view or screen you are looking for.” – Manager in Product Management, Computer Software, 11-50 employees

“The goal setting feature has helped us have better alignment with individual and organizational goals.” – Director in Human Resources, Security & Investigations, 11-50 employees

Implementation and Support

Integration and Implementation

User feedback on Namely’s implementation process varies significantly. While some users praised the implementation team for their guidance and professionalism, others expressed concerns about communication and the complexity of the implementation process. There were instances where users felt they had to take on a significant portion of the workload during implementation, leading to delays and frustrations. Despite some challenges, users appreciated the effort put into preserving and transferring data accurately. The overall sentiment regarding Namely’s integration and implementation abilities appears to be mixed, with room for improvement in certain areas to enhance user experience and streamline the implementation process. (Source Reviews: 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7, 8, 9, 10, 11, 12, 13, 14, 15)

“A few minor hiccups along the way – but the implementation team was very helpful with making sure all of our data was preserved and accurately transferred. Since I was involved in research, purchase, data migration, implementation, and ongoing use, I feel that I am qualified to say that Namely is not only ‘easy to use’ but is also scalable and will be extremely useful to help us grow as a company and manage/reach our ‘next level’ of HR utilization.” – Manager in Human Resources, Construction, 51-200 employees

“Implementation was a bit complicated and our company had to carry most of the weight. It often felt like our implementation manager was giving us extra work that she did not want to do herself. It also took much longer than expected – I believe almost 2 months. I believe our company carried a bit too much of the weight.” – Professional in Human Resources, Health, Wellness and Fitness, 51-200 employees

“There were so many specialists in the implementation process; it would have been nice to have fewer people who had a more holistic understanding of the platform. Also, the onboarding meetings covered so much technical information that there was relatively little time for questions (though questions were invited). Eventually, everything worked out.” – C-Level Executive in Corporate, Marketing and Advertising, 11-50 employees

Customer Service and Support

User sentiment regarding Namely’s customer service and support capabilities appears to be quite mixed. While some users praise the platform for its responsive and helpful customer support team, others express frustration with inconsistent support and difficulties in reaching the support team when needed. There are mentions of promises made during the demo process that were not fulfilled, leading to disappointment among users. It seems that the effectiveness of Namely’s customer service and support may vary depending on individual experiences and expectations. (Source Reviews: 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7, 8, 9, 10, 11, 12, 13, 14, 15)

“Customer service has been largely disappointing and sometimes horrible.” – Executive in Human Resources, Consumer Goods, 51-200 employees

“I find the level of knowledge of the support team is sometimes less than my own.” – Director in Human Resources, E-Learning, 51-200 employees

“Customer service is top-notch. I rarely have to wait for answers to inquiries or issues.” – Manager in Finance and Accounting, Computer Software, 201-500 employees

“Namely support team also processes our RSU payments for our payroll team.” – Paraprofessional in Finance and Accounting, Computer Software, 51-200 employees

Time and Attendance

Time and Attendance Tracking

User feedback on Namely’s time and attendance tracking functionalities varies significantly. While some users praise the platform for its time-saving benefits and ease of use in managing time off requests and timesheets, others express concerns about the complexity of setting up certain time tracking features and the lack of integration with external systems like accounting software. The general consensus leans towards a mixed opinion, with some users finding the time and attendance tracking capabilities of Namely to be a valuable asset, while others feel there is room for improvement in terms of functionality and user-friendliness. (Source Reviews: 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7, 8, 9, 10, 11, 12, 13, 14, 15)

“Use of timesheets has saved time in company administration.” – Director in Human Resources, Market Research, 51-200 employees

“Timekeeping and exporting into the payroll system is a little tedious on the front end but once complete, the process flows smoothly.” – Manager in Human Resources, Construction, 51-200 employees

“Not worth the cost at all in my opinion; No time saved…more time spent on it I believe; I feel a waste of MONEY.” – Manager in Finance and Accounting, Publishing, 51-200 employees

Time Off and PTO Management

Reviewers generally appreciate Namely’s efficient handling of time off and PTO management tasks. Users find the system user-friendly for requesting sick days, vacation time, and updating personal information. However, some users have highlighted challenges with unique sick time calculations and integration issues between sick time requests and the time tracking system. Despite these minor drawbacks, Namely’s time off and PTO management features are seen as beneficial for streamlining employee leave processes within organizations. (Source Reviews: 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7, 8, 9, 10, 11, 12, 13, 14, 15)

“Namely is a great tool and has made things easier for the company.” – Technician in Quality Assurance, Automotive, 51-200 employees

“Namely has helped with our COVID sick leave response. It has made a major difference both with the weekly payroll and the 941 tax filing.” – Professional in Finance and Accounting, Retail, 51-200 employees

“The user experience, particularly for PTO and performance management could use a lot of improvement. It is just fundamentally awkward, easy to get lost, etc.” – Manager in Product Management, Computer Software, 11-50 employees

Organizational Tools

Communication Tools

User feedback on Namely’s communication tools is a mixed bag. While some users appreciate the platform’s ability to streamline communication and enhance team connectivity, others have raised concerns about communication delays, lack of responsiveness from support, and the need for more user-friendly features. It seems that the effectiveness of Namely’s communication tools may vary depending on individual user experiences and specific organizational needs. (Source Reviews: 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7, 8, 9, 10, 11, 12, 13, 14, 15)

“Ability to upload short video, multiple images in a post, etc.; Create a ‘Suggestion Box’ where employees could submit general ideas/feedback/concerns. We started strong but around our Go Live date, we were struggling a bit more getting answers to questions or support.” – Manager in Human Resources, Construction, 51-200 employees

“At the conclusion of onboarding sessions, they always ask, ‘do you have any questions’ but the sessions are scheduled with a ‘hard out’ so it can sometimes feel like questions would take too long.” – C-Level Executive in Corporate, Marketing and Advertising, 11-50 employees

“Namely listens to feedback from its users and frequently makes updates to their technology based on that feedback. Namley’s all in one platform has made it very easy for our employees to know where to go for their HR information.” – Director in Human Resources, Security & Investigations, 11-50 employees

Organizational Charting

User sentiment regarding Namely’s organizational charting capabilities is varied. While some users appreciate the functionality and find it to be a valuable asset for tracking and visualizing organizational structures, others express dissatisfaction with certain aspects of the org chart feature. Some users highlight the need for improvements in terms of usability, customization options, and ease of downloading org charts from the system. Despite mixed opinions, it is evident that organizational charting plays a significant role in how users perceive Namely’s overall HRIS platform. (Source Reviews: 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7, 8, 9, 10, 11, 12, 13, 14, 15)

“CONS: Org chart. If your company wants a HRIS that storages and manages all information of your employees in one place where that can feel comfortable using it, Namely is your choice. Unfortunately, Namely still needs to improve their org chart and benefits like insurance for USA personnel (we manage our payroll somewhere else)” – Administrator in Human Resources, Logistics & Supply Chain, 51-200 employees

“CONS: They have an org chart feature that is great but unfortunately can’t be downloaded from the system in an easy-to-view manner.” – Employee in Human Resources, Information Technology & Services, 51-200 employees

“When we were over 100, it provided a huge benefit to us due to the accuracy of payroll, benefits integration and management, and org chart and performance tracking. Having all of that in one place was a huge improvement from the former disjointed user experience.” – Executive in Human Resources, Consumer Goods, 51-200 employees

Reporting, Analytics, and Insights

Reporting and Analytics

Reviewers have expressed mixed feelings about Namely’s reporting and analytics capabilities. While some users appreciate the ease of setup, detailed customization options, and the intuitive user interface for generating reports, others have highlighted areas for improvement. Common concerns include limitations in custom reporting, challenges with tracking changes, and the need for more robust reporting tools. Despite some positive feedback on reporting features like time off control and engagement, there are consistent calls for enhancements in reporting functionality to better meet user needs. (Source Reviews: 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7, 8, 9, 10, 11, 12, 13, 14, 15)

“Some parts of custom reporting (point in time still has room for improvement).” – Executive in Human Resources, Consumer Goods, 51-200 employees

“Reporting needs major improvement.; Payroll is very limited cannot prorate.” – Analyst in Finance and Accounting, Health, Wellness and Fitness, 201-500 employees

“Reporting is a little less intuitive. I would like to be able to create custom reports more quickly.” – Professional in Human Resources, Accounting, 51-200 employees

“Reporting; Time off control; Engagement” – Administrator in Human Resources, Logistics & Supply Chain, 51-200 employees

“Reporting; Tracking changes; Payroll function” – Administrator in Human Resources, Non-profit Organization Management, 201-500 employees

Custom Reporting Features

User feedback on Namely’s custom reporting features varies widely. While some users appreciate the reporting capabilities and find them valuable for generating specific insights and data for third-party reporting, others express frustration with the intuitiveness and speed of creating custom reports. It seems that the custom reporting features offered by Namely have both strengths and areas for improvement, with users having differing opinions on their effectiveness and ease of use. (Source Reviews: 1, 2, 3, 4, 5)