Glossary

Applicant Tracking System

An applicant tracking system is a program (usually with a web-based section) used to monitor and coordinate an organization’s job applications and help manage its recruitment needs. In general, an applicant tracking system stores candidate resumes inside a database to permit effective searching, filtering, and routing of applicants. Such systems usually include a job board, allowing companies to post jobs onto a secure website as a means of attracting candidates.

Corporations and agencies use an applicant tracking system to improve productivity in their recruiting process. Electronic handling of candidate data from their resumes plays a major role in reducing inefficiencies through automated processes. Further, the improved organization of candidate information through the use of an applicant tracking system allows quicker recruitment decisions. All of which leads to reduced cost and time per hire.

You can look at the ERE Research applicant tracking systems survey at this page. See a recent thread on applicant tracking systems named :“Do you use an ATS, a HMS or a TMS?” on the Taleo blog.