Open enrollment (OE) season has come and gone. After months of planning, execution, and troubleshooting, HR teams are finally catching their breath. But while the challenges of OE are fresh in your mind, now is the ideal time to evaluate your benefits technology and make improvements before the next cycle begins. Here’s why implementing a new benefits administration solution now — rather than waiting until the last minute — can set your organization up for success.
1. Address pain points while they’re fresh
After OE, HR teams often have a clear understanding of what worked and what didn’t. Were employees confused about enrollment? Did manual processes slow things down? Was data integration with carriers and payroll a challenge? Rather than allowing these annoyances to be forgotten, it is important to take action now. Implementing new benefits technology can resolve inefficiencies and improve the experience for both HR and employees next year.
2. Allow ample time for a smooth benefits technology implementation
A successful benefits technology transition requires time for setup, testing, and training. Rushing the process in the months leading up to OE can lead to errors, data discrepancies, and administrative headaches. By starting now, you give your team plenty of runway to properly configure the system, ensure data accuracy, and get comfortable with new workflows. This proactive approach minimizes stress when OE rolls around again.
3. Improve year-round benefits administration
The right benefits technology isn’t just for OE — it streamlines administration year-round. Whether it’s managing new hires, qualifying life events, or reconciling carrier invoices, a robust system can significantly reduce HR’s workload. Implementing new technology now means your team can leverage its advantages immediately, improving efficiency well before the next OE period.
4. Enhance employee experience and engagement
Employees interact with benefits platforms throughout the year — not just during OE. A system that’s difficult to navigate or lacks self-service capabilities can lead to confusion and frustration. Upgrading your technology now ensures employees have a seamless, user-friendly experience, making it easier for them to understand and use their benefits.
5. Stay ahead of compliance and security requirements
Regulatory requirements for benefits administration are constantly evolving, and security risks are always a concern. Implementing a modern, compliant, and secure benefits technology solution now helps ensure your organization stays ahead of industry changes and reduces risk exposure.
Don’t wait — start planning for new benefits technology now
Delaying the implementation of new benefits technology can result in another OE season filled with the same frustrations. By making the switch now, your team will be better prepared, your employees will have a smoother experience, and your organization will benefit from a more efficient and strategic approach to benefits administration.
If your recent OE highlighted the need for a more effective benefits technology solution, now is the time to act. Explore your options, start conversations with vendors, and set yourself up for a successful transition before next year’s enrollment period arrives.
