So, how do you choose what reward and recognition platform is right for you? We reckon there are some features which are non-negotiable – especially if you have a global or hybrid team. See how platforms match up against these key features.
Must-have features for global reward and recognition
We recommend creating a shopping list of features you want. For global teams, your list might look like this:
- Global rewards coverage
- Multi-currency functionality
- Tax handling support and reporting
- Flexible rewards, like points-based systems
- Peer-to-peer recognition
Consider what would help reduce admin and improve consistency. Look for features like:
- Automated milestone celebrations
- Templates or prompts for nominations
- Central budget management
- Reporting dashboards and data
- Self-serve tools
The focus should always be on usability, visibility and fairness, not just endless feature lists.
Supporting dispersed teams: mobile, multi-currency and localisation
Creating consistent experiences for dispersed teams requires any platform to be accessible remotely, usually via a user-friendly mobile app.
Look for:
- Mobile-first design
- An easy login and navigation experience
- Language options where relevant
- Local reward content
- Multi-currency functionality
- Variety of rewards in different regions
Integrations and automation
A modern reward and recognition programme shouldn’t add massive admin time to your workload, and many integrate with existing systems and have inbuilt automations.
Common integrations include:
- HRIS integrations for up-to-date data
- Single sign on (SSO) for easy access
- Communication integrations with systems like Slack or Microsoft Teams
Automations that reduce admin:
- Automatic anniversary recognitions
- Birthday triggers with digital greeting cards
- Employee engagement in a couple of clicks
Reporting, analytics and insights HR teams need
Look for platforms that offer in-depth reporting and data dashboards. The more data you have, the easier it becomes to spot trends and adapt your strategy.
You should be able to track:
- Participation rates by team and region
- Frequency of recognition
- Reward spend and budget usage
- Top recognised values or behaviours
- Trends and patterns
Some platforms, like Perkbox, also allow you to share reports directly with other members of your team – making it quick to update on performance.
Questions to ask vendors when evaluating platforms
When vetting platforms, there are important questions to ask:
Q: What does your product roadmap look like over the next 12 to 24 months?
This is also a chance to find out if and how client feedback is incorporated into product development and enhancement.
Q: How do you support implementation and encourage employee adoption?
Get an idea of how long and resource intensive the implementation will be, and what support you’ll have to launch with a bang.
Q: What integrations are available?
Uncovers opportunities for admin savings that you can include in your business case.
Q: How extensive is your reward catalogue?
Getting under the hood of a provider will help ensure there is plenty of choice and you won’t find yourself having to source your own rewards – especially in different locations.
Q: How do you ensure data security?
If employee data is going on an external platform, you want peace of mind that it’s safe. Look for certifications like ISO 27001 or Cyber Essentials. Your data security team will thank you.
How an all-in-one platform supports reward, recognition and wellbeing
Multiple platforms create a disjointed experience, and more admin to boot. All-in-one platforms like Perkbox bring wellbeing and benefits together in one place, making it easy for employees to feel rewarded, recognised and supported.
