Expertise and support
to ensure smooth
SAP SuccessFactors
Operations

Having shortlisted three consultancies down from a list of five, Oxford Instruments selected HR technology experts TalenTeam as their support partner based on value for money and flexibility in approach. The HR team appreciated being able to work directly with expert consultants from day one. TalenTeam demonstrated the necessary knowledge and expertise to address any issues or challenges that may arise. This allows for quicker problem resolution and will ultimately lead to more efficient and effective outcomes for the business. Rowena, HR Director, Group Functions, at Oxford Instruments, highlights, “From the outset, TalenTeam was willing to work with our budget and aligned with the level of support we needed. Starting off on this footing of collaboration and flexibility laid the groundwork for a successful partnership where we could communicate our needs and achieve our goals.” Sally adds, “The fact that the team focuses exclusively on HCM gave us confidence that we’re receiving best practice HR solution advice.”

As the business evolves, SAP SuccessFactors needs to reflect those changes. TalenTeam works closely with the HR team to get the most out of the system by making this happen, from systems audit, to business-as-usual, to strategic changes – all ensuring a faster time to value. “TalenTeam handles our change requests and technical issues. We just raise a ticket with the ‘fresh’ desk which is quickly picked up by the relevant consultant.” Sally continues, “The response is pretty much instant, and sometimes the consultant will arrange a Teams call which usually resolves things quickly.” Tim agrees, “I really like the flexibility of the support. I can email the consultant with a small question which they often resolve within minutes. They are also good at explaining things, giving us a layperson’s version of technical ‘SAP speak’ so we understand the reasons why a function is operating in a certain way, and will challenge us about whether it’s appropriate to make a change.”

One of the advantages of the flexible contract Oxford Instruments has with TalenTeam is the training and learning to upskill and increase the admin knowledge of the global HR administrators. Sally explains, “We’re running training on each module for our 36 HR administrators based worldwide. Upskilling them will provide the additional knowledge, skills, and motivation so they can use the system more effectively and support our end users.”

SAP SuccessFactors technical support is integral to the success of the system and makes life much easier for the HR team. Tim highlights, “We’re also working together on some upcoming major changes as we develop our roadmap, such as a new model for managing timesheets or exploring how further modules will benefit our business.”

Optimising cost savings is a key focus for most organisations and Oxford Instruments is no exception. Integrating time and attendance functionality in Employee Central will simplify and automate the company’s business processes and support its HR workflows. It is also looking to integrate the Compensation module in the next financial year which will optimise budgeting and help improve employee engagement.