Online benefits administration and Health Savings Account provider, Clarity Benefit Solutions, discusses five ways employee benefit administration is evolving.
Modern technology is streamlining the process. Online benefit programs have a myriad of advantages that help simplify the entire process. Employees do not want to be handed packets and booklets to read through in order to determine what benefit programs they should enroll in. Paperless online enrollment, a mobile app, real-time broker dashboard, and full payroll and carrier connectivity are just some of the features that help streamline employee benefit administration.
Plan customization is becoming more prevalent. Clearly, not all employees desire the same mix of benefits. Today’s employers are offering a wide variety of options so that employees can pick and choose benefits that best fit their specific situation and lifestyle. Thanks to online benefit administrations platforms are helping to make this a positive experience by making the process similar to online shopping.
Employee engagement strategies are on the rise. Employers are aware that employees need a number of methods to remain engaged in choosing benefit programs. Portals, mobile platforms, social media, and app-like strategies are fast becoming necessary tools to keep employees—especially millennials—involved with their benefits. Employers should maintain a user-friendly website so employees have immediate access to benefits information at their convenience.
Ancillary benefits are gaining in popularity. Today, employees expect basic health insurance, dental coverage, and vision plans. Many of them also desire benefits such as life insurance, accident coverage, critical illness coverage, and even group legal plans to help with life-changing events such as having a baby, purchasing a home, or caring for an aging or ill parent.
Wellness programs are gaining momentum. Employers want their employees mentally and physical healthy and are offering more opportunities for employees to take advantage of. Employers should offer benefit choices that allow employees to join a gym, track fitness activity, or seek professional help for mental illness. Happy employees are productive employees.
