Speaking at the recent Papaya Global 2030 Workforce Virtual Summit, Richard Wanless from AKT-Aventi shares how integrated technology, viewed through the user’s perspective, creates a seamless and intuitive experience across workforce and payroll operations.
The Power of Integration
The VMS (Vendor Management System) has evolved from a standalone tool to a central hub connecting multiple systems. The key challenge is creating seamless user experiences despite increasing complexity. Wanless notes that advances in the past 3-4 years have surpassed progress made over the previous 21 years, suggesting exponential change ahead.
Streamlining the Worker Journey
Effective integration eliminates data repetition across systems, dramatically improving efficiency and accuracy. When engaging independent contractors or freelancers through a VMS, information flows automatically to downstream systems like Papaya Global for onboarding and payroll, while simultaneously triggering processes for security badges, account creation, and asset provisioning. This automation creates a single channel for users rather than lengthy checklists.
The Candidate Experience Advantage
Creating excellent experiences for prospective workers makes organizations more attractive employers. Talent pools maintain connections with past workers, retirees, and previous applicants, allowing rapid re-engagement. Leveraging historical data—previous training, documentation, and security clearances—eliminates redundant processes. This approach has reduced average onboarding time from 90 days to just 9 days in some industries, delivering transformational productivity and cost benefits.
Today’s Standard vs. 2030’s Vision
Currently, best practice involves structured digital processes with integrated VMS, financial systems, and payroll platforms. By 2030, AI will fundamentally change how we source talent. Instead of searching for specific job titles, organizations will articulate desired outcomes, and AI will recommend the most effective solutions—whether freelancers, contractors, or statement-of-work arrangements. AI will guide decisions considering efficiency, compliance, worker classification, and global talent availability.
The Future Landscape
Geographic borders will diminish as technology enables easier international payments and onboarding. The focus shifts from filling positions to achieving business outcomes through optimized, compliant workforce solutions. Curating talent pools and reusing proven skills will become standard practice, creating an intuitive, efficient system vastly different from today’s processes.