Extending Workday

Industry News • By OWJ • Published on September 1

The Power of Extending Workday

Workday has built a reputation for being a dynamic, user-friendly system. It handles core operations such as payroll, talent management, financials, and procurement seamlessly. However, many businesses find that integrating additional tools and services can push Workday’s capabilities even further. With 3rd party applications, companies can fill gaps, automate workflows, and customize their Workday environment to better suit their specific industry needs.

Why Use 3rd Party Applications with Workday?

While Workday offers an all-in-one solution, businesses often have unique requirements that are outside of its core functions. Integrating with 3rd party applications offers multiple benefits, including:

  • Enhanced Functionality: 3rd party apps can introduce specialized capabilities that Workday doesn't natively support.
  • Seamless Integration: Thanks to Workday’s open API and Workday Cloud Platform, integrating external tools is relatively simple and doesn’t disrupt existing workflows.
  • Scalability: As businesses grow, integrating with 3rd party apps ensures the system can scale to meet changing demands.
  • Improved User Experience: Custom apps often streamline or automate processes, making Workday easier to use and reducing manual intervention.

Top 3rd Party Applications to Extend Workday

There are countless 3rd party applications that businesses can integrate with Workday to boost functionality. Here’s a look at some of the top categories of apps companies are using today:

1. Reporting and Analytics Tools

While Workday has strong reporting capabilities, many businesses want deeper insights or specialized reporting features. Integrating with 3rd party analytics tools can provide enhanced data visualization, predictive analytics, and customizable dashboards.

Examples:

  • Tableau: Adds advanced data visualization to Workday data, providing a clearer picture of workforce trends, financial metrics, and more.
  • Power BI: Offers seamless integration with Workday data for more interactive and comprehensive reporting options.

2. Payroll and Time Tracking

Workday Payroll is a game-changer for many businesses, but companies with more complex payroll or compliance needs may require additional tools. 3rd party apps for payroll or time tracking ensure precision in handling different tax regulations, overtime calculations, or international payroll systems.

Examples:

  • Kronos: Provides advanced time and attendance tracking that integrates directly with Workday.
  • ADP: Offers specialized payroll services for global or multi-state companies, integrating with Workday to ensure compliance across regions.

3. Document Management Solutions

Handling and storing documents securely is critical for many companies, especially those in heavily regulated industries. 3rd party document management systems can offer greater control and automation over the document storage and retrieval process within Workday.

Examples:

  • DocuSign: Facilitates digital signature integration with Workday processes like onboarding and contracts.
  • Box: Offers secure document storage and sharing, with seamless integration to store Workday-generated files such as employee records and reports.

4. Recruitment and Applicant Tracking Systems (ATS)

While Workday’s built-in ATS works well for many companies, some may require more specialized solutions for talent acquisition or candidate engagement.

Examples:

  • Greenhouse: A popular ATS for larger organizations looking to create more structured and tailored recruitment workflows.
  • LinkedIn Talent Solutions: Integrates with Workday to streamline the hiring process, offering access to LinkedIn’s vast network of professionals.

The Role of Integration Platforms in Workday Extensions

One of the best things about Workday is its openness to external integrations through Workday Extend (formerly Workday Cloud Platform) and Workday Studio. These platforms make it easier for businesses to develop custom apps or integrate existing 3rd party software seamlessly.

Workday Extend

Workday Extend allows developers to build applications directly on top of the Workday platform, ensuring the new functionality works in tandem with Workday's native features. This is particularly useful for businesses with very specific needs that can’t be met by off-the-shelf 3rd party applications.

Workday Studio

For businesses looking to integrate 3rd party systems with Workday, Workday Studio offers a powerful tool for creating complex integrations. Workday Studio enables organizations to automate processes between Workday and external applications, streamlining workflows and saving valuable time.


How 3rd Party Apps Benefit Workday Customers

By using 3rd party applications, companies can offer their customers a superior experience. When internal processes run smoothly and data flows freely between systems, it results in better decision-making, faster response times, and improved service delivery.

Streamlining Internal Workflows

When employees spend less time navigating between multiple platforms and tools, they become more efficient. Integrating 3rd party apps with Workday reduces data silos, automates routine tasks, and ensures that all information is accessible in one place. This frees up time for employees to focus on more critical tasks, which ultimately benefits customers.

Boosting Decision-Making with Enhanced Data

Workday’s integration with advanced analytics tools provides a wealth of data that can help businesses make more informed decisions. Whether it’s understanding workforce trends or evaluating financial health, the additional insights from 3rd party apps lead to better outcomes for customers.

Ensuring Compliance and Accuracy

In industries with strict regulatory requirements, accuracy is critical. Integrating specialized payroll, compliance, and document management tools with Workday helps businesses stay on top of ever-changing laws and regulations. This means fewer errors and less risk—something that every customer appreciates.


Finding the Right Talent for Workday Integration Projects

Leveraging 3rd party apps is great in theory, but to do it right, businesses need skilled professionals who understand both Workday and the external applications being integrated. This is where OnlyWorkdayJobs.com comes in.

OnlyWorkdayJobs.com is a specialized job board focused solely on Workday professionals. Whether you need an expert in Workday Financial Management, a developer with Workday Studio experience, or someone skilled in integrating 3rd party apps like Tableau or Kronos, this platform connects businesses with the talent they need.

Why waste time on generic job boards when you can find Workday specialists all in one place? OnlyWorkdayJobs.com ensures you’re connected with candidates who are already well-versed in Workday and ready to hit the ground running on integration projects.


Conclusion

Extending Workday’s capabilities through 3rd party applications is a smart move for any business looking to enhance performance, streamline operations, and improve customer outcomes. Whether it’s integrating advanced reporting tools, automating payroll processes, or managing documents, 3rd party apps bring significant value to the table.

But to make the most of these integrations, you need skilled professionals who understand both Workday and the external systems. That’s where OnlyWorkdayJobs.com becomes invaluable, offering access to a pool of qualified Workday experts ready to help businesses leverage the full power of their Workday platform.


FAQs

  1. What are the most popular 3rd party apps used with Workday? Common integrations include Tableau for analytics, Kronos for time tracking, and DocuSign for electronic signatures.
  2. How easy is it to integrate third-party apps with Workday? Thanks to tools like Workday Studio and Workday Extend, integrating third-party applications is relatively straightforward, especially for developers familiar with the platform.
  3. Do I need a Workday expert to manage 3rd party integrations? Yes, hiring a Workday expert ensures that integrations are done correctly and efficiently, which is why OnlyWorkdayJobs.com is a great resource for finding qualified talent.
  4. Can 3rd party apps work seamlessly with Workday’s existing modules? Absolutely. Most 3rd party apps are designed to integrate smoothly with Workday, ensuring that workflows aren’t disrupted.
  5. What types of businesses benefit the most from 3rd party integrations with Workday? Any business looking to scale, improve efficiency, or add specialized features will benefit from 3rd party integrations with Workday.