Transforming HR with Data

Zest’s Success Stories

What they said.

Getting your HR and Payroll data and processes rock solid allows you to trust the system and focus on the strategic HR activity that drives business performance.
Kat Thompson
Zest CEO & Co-Founder

Mission Goals

Our mission is not just to implement HR systems, we transform them. Zest has worked with a diverse range of clients facing complex challenges in their HR systems, payroll processes, and workforce management. Each organisation’s needs vary, but we see common themes such as the need for streamlined HR processes, better system integration, data accuracy, and the ability to leverage HR analytics. From small organisations to large institutions, we’ve driven transformation, supported growth, and ensured smooth operations through tailored HR solutions that enable data-driven decision-making.

For example, we’ve worked with:

  • Ports North to replace outdated systems with a modern HRIS and Payroll solution, enabling data integration and AI-powered automation.
  • Ngala to improve their payroll systems and ensure compliance with regulations, alongside enhancing HR analytics for better decision-making.
  • Joondalup Family Centre to address payroll discrepancies and underpayments, while integrating HR analytics for a more streamlined payroll process.
  • Perron Institute to implement a new HRIS that enhanced automation, optimised HR tasks, and fostered a data-driven culture across their operations.

The Solution

Zest provided bespoke solutions designed to solve each client’s unique HR challenges while embedding HR data strategy, AI, and analytics into their operations:

  • HRIS implementation: For Perron Institute, we helped select and implement Rippling, ensuring a seamless transition that integrated HR, payroll, and performance management systems. The system provided a foundation for future AI-powered automation and data analysis.
  • Payroll remediation and support: Our work with Joondalup Family Centre included conducting a comprehensive payroll review, addressing discrepancies, and integrating payroll data analytics to improve compliance and accuracy with the SCHADS Award.
  • System audits and configurations: We partnered with Ngala to conduct an in-depth system audit, rebuilding rulesets and configuring payroll systems to optimise compliance and enhance data insights for decision-making.
  • Strategic workforce solutions: For Ports North, we implemented a unified HRIS that integrated key workforce data points, enabling better data handling, analytics, and improved HR decision-making across multiple departments.

Highlights

  • Efficiency gains: By transitioning clients to automated HRIS systems like Rippling, we’ve reduced manual processes and paved the way for AI-driven payroll, recruitment, and compliance automation, saving time and resources.
  • Enhanced compliance with data strategy: We empowered clients like Ngala and Joondalup Family Centre to stay on top of industry regulations, with a focus on data-driven compliance and reporting, improving their HR analytics capabilities.
  • Scalable solutions with data analytics: Our HRIS solutions are designed to scale with businesses. For Perron Institute and Ports North, the systems enable businesses to adapt and leverage HR data analytics for growth, without overhauling their systems as they expand.
  • Improved data accuracy and insights: Our integration of HR analytics enabled clients to harness workforce data in meaningful ways, providing clear, actionable insights that helped leaders make better decisions across HR functions.

Challenges

  • Complex legacy systems: Some clients, like Ngala, had outdated payroll systems that were not compatible with modern data-driven strategies. Rebuilding these systems was a challenge, but we successfully integrated HRIS solutions that provided both operational improvements and enhanced HR analytics.
  • Data discrepancies and integration: At Joondalup Family Centre, the payroll discrepancies required careful auditing and reconciliation. We worked through these challenges while integrating their payroll system into a broader data-driven HR strategy.
  • Client resistance to AI and automation: Transitioning to AI-powered automation and integrating HR analytics was a shift for some clients. We focused on training, change management, and providing clear benefits to encourage adoption of these modern systems.

Wins

  • Seamless HRIS launches: The HRIS implementations for Perron Institute and Ports North were smooth, ensuring quick adoption and minimal disruption, while integrating AI-powered tools for smarter HR management.
  • Payroll accuracy and insights: Through a deep dive into Joondalup Family Centre’s payroll, we identified discrepancies and then implemented payroll analytics to ensure future compliance and accuracy.
  • Scalable systems for growth: For both Perron Institute and Ports North, we provided scalable HRIS solutions that allowed them to grow, integrating data-driven insights and AI automation that continuously evolve with their needs.

More Work.

Explore how Zest partners with organisations to co-create thriving workplaces. Our case studies showcase real-world transformations where strategy, empathy, and innovation converge to drive meaningful change.

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