Revolutionizing Global Payroll Management Through Technology

The payroll industry is evolving, influenced by technological advancement, changing workforce dynamics, and shifting regulatory demands, industry experts said May 14. Effective payroll management, powered by modern technology, is crucial to managing the complexities of a diverse workforce and evolving payroll regulations, said Jenny Baskerville and Jay Conforti, managing directors at KPMG.

Baskerville and Conforti spoke at the 2025 Payroll Congress in Kissimmee, Florida.

Harnessing Technology for Enhanced Efficiency
In today’s rapidly evolving business landscape, effective payroll management stands at the forefront of organizational success, said Conforti.

Payroll challenges vary across different industries, each presenting unique needs and complexities, including varied payment methods, contingent labor, mobile workforce, complex scheduling, overtime issues, and regulatory compliance, Baskerville said.

To navigate these challenges effectively, payroll professionals must adopt innovative automated payroll solutions tailored to their specific sector, she added.

Many payroll professionals spend a lot of time on administrative tasks that can be accelerated through the integration of automation and technology-driven payroll systems, Conforti said.

Modern payroll management is no longer merely an administrative function, it is a strategic component that can provide valuable insights for informed business decisions, Conforti continued.

Payroll professionals can streamline payroll processes, improve operational efficiency, enhance employee experience, and ensure compliance with regulatory requirements by leveraging cutting-edge technologies and automation, Conforti added.

Enabling a centralized global payroll function allows for precise payroll calculations and compliance, ultimately leading to increased payroll efficiency and reduced manual errors, Baskerville said.

By automating mundane tasks and conducting complex calculations, technology like artificial intelligence significantly boosts payroll operational efficiency and accuracy, allowing payroll professionals to focus on strategic initiatives rather than repetitive tasks, Baskerville continued.

Payroll professionals can also foster seamless data synchronization and facilitate information sharing across various departments through technology integration, Conforti said. This not only enhances data accuracy but also improves overall visibility within the organization, he continued.

“Keep compliance at the center of your payroll strategy,” Baskerville said. Employers should maintain consistent documentation practices and establish clear procedures for payroll processing, Baskerville continued.

To safeguard against potential financial losses, penalties, and damage to reputation, employers should establish robust internal control systems that ensure accuracy, timeliness, and completeness in payroll processing, Baskerville said.

Regular audits and reviews of payroll processes can help maintain compliance while ensuring that employees receive timely and accurate compensation, she added.

Investing in the education and training of payroll professionals is vital for driving productivity and adapting to the continually evolving payroll landscape, Conforti said.

Employers should implement comprehensive training programs aimed at equipping payroll professionals with the latest technology tools and knowledge to navigate changing payroll demands, he continued.

Embracing Innovation for Future Success
The future of payroll management lies in the willingness of payroll professionals to embrace innovation, Baskerville said.

The impact of AI on payroll is significant, including improved efficiency, greater accuracy, cost effectiveness, compliance monitoring, enhanced data analysis, better data security, and improved employee experience, Baskerville continued.

As workforce dynamics continue to evolve, payroll professionals must remain proactive, Conforti said.

“Payroll professionals should embrace technological disruptions to unlock value, drive profitability, and accelerate growth through workforce shaping,” Conforti said.

By adopting technology, fostering innovation, and investing in payroll professionals, employers can navigate the complexities of a diverse workforce while ensuring compliance, enhancing efficiency, and ultimately creating better employee experience, Baskerville and Conforti concluded.