7 Features to look for in employee engagement software

Finding the right employee engagement software can feel like a trial. With so many platforms offering staff surveys, analytics and feedback tools, it’s hard to know which one will actually help you improve levels of engagement, rather than just collect survey data. The best employee engagement software doesn’t just measure how employees feel. It helps you take action, track progress and create a workplace where people want to stay and do their best work.

So, what should you look for? Here are the key features that make the difference between a platform that drives real change and one that gathers dust.

Related: AI-powered solutions for HR analytics

What to look for in employee engagement software

 Here’s a comprehensive guide to the key features you should consider:

1. Comprehensive survey models

At the heart of effective employee engagement software lies the ability to gather insightful feedback. Look for platforms that offer a variety of survey types — such as pulse surveys, annual employee surveys and employee lifecycle cycles, to name a few —to capture a holistic view of employee sentiment. The flexibility to customise these surveys ensures they resonate with your organisational culture and address specific concerns. For instance, we at People Insight provide science-backed employee survey models tailored to measure various facets of the employee experience.

2. Advanced analytics and reporting

Collecting data is great, but it’s only the first step; interpreting it effectively is where the real value lies. Opt for software equipped with advanced analytics that can identify trends, pinpoint areas of concern and highlight strengths. Visual dashboards and comprehensive reports make it easier for leadership to understand the data and make informed decisions. 

With People Insight, you have all you need in one place with our reporting dashboard. It’s intuitive and easy-to-use while providing clear, actionable snapshots of how your employees are feeling and perceiving your company.We also have Prism, our generative AI, which breaks down and analyses qualitative, quantitative and historical survey data.

3. Integration with existing systems

Seamless integration with your current HR and communication systems really enhances the utility of employee engagement software. This connectivity ensures that data flows smoothly between platforms, reducing manual data entry and the potential for errors. Learn more about our integration and security features for added peace of mind.

4. Diversity and inclusion insights

A truly engaged workforce is one where diversity and inclusion are prioritised. Choose software that helps diagnose conscious and unconscious biases, providing insights into how different groups experience the workplace. This feature supports the creation of strategies that promote a more inclusive environment, benefiting overall engagement. Learn more about our diversity and inclusion surveys.

5. Employee wellbeing support

Happy, healthy employees (in body and mind) perform better. They’re more engaged, they’re more driven and they’re more productive. Software that includes features to monitor and support mental and physical health demonstrates a commitment to employees’ holistic health. Learn more about our staff wellbeing surveys.

6. Data security and compliance

Handling sensitive employee data requires stringent security measures. Ensure that the software complies with relevant data protection regulations and employs robust security protocols to protect against breaches. This aspect is important for maintaining trust and safeguarding your organisation’s reputation.

7. Actionable insights and follow-up

Beyond data collection, the software should facilitate action planning based on the insights gathered. Features that assist in developing, assigning and tracking action items ensure that feedback leads to tangible improvements, closing the employee feedback loop and demonstrating to employees that their input is valued. For example, our platform features an action centre, designed to help organisations act on survey results effectively — and, of course, our HR consultants are always on hand to help out with post-survey action plans.

Not all employee engagement software is created equal – find the one that works for you

Selecting the best employee engagement software isn’t just about gathering feedback — that’s just the very beginning. It’s also about using that feedback to actively create a workplace where employees feel heard, valued and motivated to contribute. The right software helps organisations translate insights into meaningful action, improving overall engagement, retention and performance.

Businesses that prioritise listening to their employees and acting on feedback see measurable improvements in productivity, morale and even financial performance. The best engagement tools support this process, making it easier to track sentiment, identify trends and implement effective solutions.

If you’re looking to improve engagement in your organisation, People Insight’s employee surveys provide the insights you need to drive real change. Get in touch today to learn how our platform can help you create a workplace where employees can do their best work.