What is an Applicant Tracking System (ATS)?

Applicant tracking systems (ATS) are software applications designed to organize and sort job applicants. Applicant tracking systems simplify the recruitment process by providing a centralized platform to view applicants, track their progress through the hiring process, and filter based on qualifications. Many applicant tracking systems can be accessed online through open source or software as a service (SaaS) products.

These types of software products are especially useful for HR departments or recruiters who have to sift through large applicant pools or who need to regularly hire employees for a lot of different positions. The increase in online job postings has made it easier for job seekers to apply for jobs with ease, simultaneously inflating applicant pools. An ATS helps to minimize the extra labor associated with larger applicant pools by managing the entire recruitment process under one system.