Top 7 Open Source HRIS Tools with Key Features in 2025

Open-source HRIS software provides a more affordable alternative to closed source code HR information system tools, although they have some limitations such as vulnerabilities from open source. These systems are widely used for their flexibility and cost-effectiveness. We’ve gathered a selection of commonly used open-source HRIS tools, each with its own set of features.

Explore the range of open-source HR software and their key features:

Top 7 Open Source HRIS Tools

Ranking: Vendors are sorted based on the number of Github stars.

Inclusion criteria: All vendors need to have at least one Github star.

Frappe HR

Frappe HR is an open-source human resource management system built on the Frappe Framework.

Key features:

• Payroll processing: Automate salary structure calculations, deductions, compensation, and payslip generation.
• Leave and attendance: Manage leave policies, track employee attendance, and approve requests.
• Custom reports: Create detailed customized reports without coding.
• Role-based access: Control who can access and edit HR operations.
• Time tracking: Record attendance automatically.
• Performance management: Plan goals, conduct evaluations and track employee performance.

Frappe HR is an open source HR software for businesses of all sizes.

OrangeHRM

OrangeHRM is an open-source human resource management software designed to simplify HR tasks. It helps HR professionals manage employee records, track time, handle leave requests, and streamline recruitment—all in one place.

Figure 1. OrangeHRM dashboard

Key features:

• Leave & PTO tracking: Submit, approve, and monitor leave requests without hassle.
• Time tracking: Record work hours and attendance accurately.
• Recruitment (ATS): Post job openings and track applicants efficiently.
• Performance management: Conduct structured evaluations and track employee performance.
• Reports & analytics: Generate insights to support HR decisions.

With cloud-based access and a mobile app, OrangeHRM keeps HR teams connected and organized anytime, anywhere.

IceHrm

IceHrm is a cloud-based HR management software that helps businesses organize employee information, track attendance, manage leave, and streamline hiring.

Figure 2. Dashboard of IceHrm

Key features:

• Employee recruitment: Post job openings and manage the interview process for employee recruitment in one place.
• Attendance tracking: Employees can update their timesheets, while the system tracks clock-in and clock-out times.
• Leave management: Automates leave requests and calculations to reduce errors.
• Performance reviews: Provides tools for structured employee evaluations.

With IceHrm, businesses can keep HR tasks organized and reduce manual work.

MintHCM

MintHCM is a free, open-source human capital management system that helps businesses organize HR processes. It runs on your server and includes tools for recruitment, employee records, and performance tracking.

Key Features:

• Recruitment: Manage job postings and track candidates.
• Onboarding & offboarding: Smooth transitions for new hires and departing employees.
• Skills & competencies: Track expertise across the organization.
• Time & attendance: Monitor working hours, schedules, and leave.
• Performance reviews: Evaluate employee progress with structured assessments.
• Travel & expenses: Enable travel management and expense tracking.
• Resource booking: Manage shared company assets efficiently.
• Analytics & reporting: Use HR data to gain insights.

MintHCM provides businesses with a structured way to handle HR tasks while keeping employee data organized and mobile app accessible.

Sentrifugo

Sentrifugo is an open-source business system with flexible tools for handling employee database, performance, and time tracking.

Key features:

• Performance appraisal: Allow managers and employees to assess performance and set future goals.
• Self-service portal: Employees can update their information, check leave balances, and schedule meetings.
• Leave management: View and manage employee leave requests and holiday calendars.
• Recruitment & interviews: Track job applications, schedule interviews, and manage candidate feedback.
• Time & attendance: Define work hours, track time-off, and monitor attendance.
• Expense & asset management: Submit expenses for approval and request asset repairs or replacements.
• Background checks: Assign agencies to verify candidate history and track progress.
• Analytics & reporting: Generate reports on employee activity, attrition rates, and departmental insights.

Sentrifugo provides organizations with structured HR software to streamline business processes and manage workforce data efficiently.

HRIS by ProgrammingLive Community

HRIS by ProgrammingLive Community is an open-source HRIS solution built and maintained by a developer community.

Key features:

• Multi-tenant support: Organizations can manage HR processes separately within the same system.
• Payroll processing: Automate salary calculations for accuracy and efficiency.
• Recruitment management: Manage job postings, applications, talent acquisition, and employee onboarding.
• Training & development: Keep records of employee training programs.
• Compliance monitoring: Ensure adherence to labor laws and company policies.

HRIS is designed to support different organizations, from franchises to large corporations with independent branches.

Simple HR System

SimpleHRM is an easy-to-use, open-source HR system designed for small and medium-sized businesses. It simplifies HR tasks, making them easier to manage for both CEOs and HR heads. The system includes features like leave requests, food ordering, announcements, and file sharing.

Key features:

• Employee self-service: Allow employees to manage their own information and requests.
• Leave management: Manage and approve leave requests.
• Travel & expense management: Manage travel bookings and expenses.
• Attendance tracking: Track daily work activities.
• Benefits management: Administer employee benefits.
• Reports & statistics: Generate reports for better decision-making.
• Performance management: Set goals and track progress, and provide feedback.

SimpleHRM is designed to make HR management straightforward and accessible for businesses of all sizes.

Key functions of open source HR software

HR information systems (HRIS) help manage various HR tasks efficiently. These systems automate workflows and improve business operations. Key functions include:

Employee management

HRIS tools provide a solution for managing employee records and information. All of the abovementioned HRIS tools have the capability to manage employee data.

Payroll management

HR information software needs to help create salary structures and run accurate payrolls with integrated accounting.

Time & attendance tracking

HRIS helps track employee absences, holidays, and work schedules. It calculates time and pay automatically based on employee profiles.

Performance management

HRIS software enables to track and evaluate the performance of employees based on goals set beforehand.

Limitations of open source HRIS tools

1. Vulnerability from open code
   Since open source code is available to anyone, hackers can potentially exploit weaknesses. While the developer community often fixes issues quickly, the open nature of the code leaves systems exposed to security risks.
2. Unstable platform due to frequent updates
   Open source tools are regularly updated, which can lead to unexpected changes in how the system performs. These updates can introduce bugs or errors, especially with sensitive employee data. Testing and skilled IT resources are needed to manage these risks.
3. Lack of vendor accountability
   Unlike proprietary systems, open source HRIS tools don’t have a vendor to hold accountable for issues. If something goes wrong, there may be no formal recourse. It’s important to thoroughly vet the software, just as you would with a traditional HRMS, and gather feedback from other users.

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