Why Synerion Is the Smart Alternative to UKG for Workforce Management

When businesses search for workforce management software, UKG (Ultimate Kronos Group) is often a name that comes up. But it's not the only option — and for many organizations, it's not the right one. Whether you’re managing hourly workers, optimizing time and attendance, or integrating with payroll, companies across North America are turning to Synerion as a more flexible, transparent, and partner-focused alternative.

Who Is Synerion For?

Synerion is purpose-built for:

  • Mid-size to enterprise-level businesses seeking flexible deployment (cloud or on-prem)
  • Organizations with hourly and shift-based workforces across healthcare, manufacturing, logistics, retail, public sector, and professional services
  • Teams looking to integrate time and attendance with payroll platforms like ADP, SAP SuccessFactors, QuickBooks, BambooHR, Nethris, and more
  • Companies that want better support, faster implementation, and a more collaborative partner

Quick Comparison: Synerion vs. UKG

Feature / Focus Area Synerion UKG
Ease of Use Modern, intuitive UI built for frontline use Powerful, but often complex for end-users
Deployment Cloud, hybrid, or on-prem options Primarily cloud-based
Speed to Value Rapid onboarding and implementation Longer enterprise rollout cycles
Support & Service Local, personalized support in North America Large global support queues
Hardware Options Fusion, Horizon, and Swift time clocks Limited branded hardware
Integration Ecosystem ADP, SAP, QuickBooks, Nethris, BambooHR Primarily UKG-native integrations
Pricing Transparency Modular, with clear pricing Enterprise contracts often lack transparency
AI Capabilities SAI chatbot, predictive analytics Advanced, but requires additional modules

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1. Speed and Simplicity Over Complexity

Many companies switch from UKG to Synerion because they’re looking to reduce system complexity. UKG is powerful, but that power often comes at the cost of:

  • Steep learning curves
  • Longer onboarding timelines
  • Higher configuration overhead

Synerion offers plug-and-play configurations, fast implementation (often under 90 days & under 24 weeks for large complex customers), and an interface that both managers and frontline workers actually enjoy using.

2. Transparent Pricing, No Hidden Fees

One of the most common frustrations with UKG is unclear pricing. With Synerion, what you see is what you get:

  • Modular pricing lets you pay for what you use — whether that’s scheduling, time tracking, job costing, absence management, or analytics
  • No surprise add-on fees for integrations or hardware
  • Affordable time clocks (Fusion, Swift, Horizon) that are compatible with a wide range of workforce environments

3. Local, Personalized Support

While UKG relies heavily on ticketing systems and large global teams, Synerion offers:

  • Dedicated account managers
  • North American-based support
  • Hands-on training and consulting to help you maximize ROI
  • A proactive approach to success — not reactive customer care

4. Better Integration with ADP, SAP, QuickBooks, BambooHR & More

Synerion was designed to play well with your existing tools:

  • Seamless sync with ADP Workforce Now (Synerion is a Platinum Marketplace Partner)
  • Certified integration with SAP SuccessFactors and SAP Store
  • Direct APIs and connectors for QuickBooks, BambooHR, Nethris, and other payroll or ERP system

This means:

  • No double data entry
  • Real-time syncing between systems
  • Fewer IT headaches

5. Workforce Management + AI: A Smarter Future

While UKG has launched advanced analytics, many of these features are locked behind complex licensing.

With Synerion, our new SAI (Synerion AI) platform provides:

  • Conversational AI support tools for employees and supervisors
  • Predictive insights into overtime trends, attendance risks, and scheduling conflicts
  • Real-time alerts to optimize labor costs and reduce compliance issues

It’s AI, made practical — not theoretical.

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6. Hardware That Matches the Modern Workforce

UKG’s timeclock ecosystem is limited to a few branded devices. In contrast, Synerion offers:

  • Fusion Clock: Built for rugged, high-volume environments
  • Swift Clock: Fast, touchless biometric scanning
  • Horizon Clock: Sleek, customizable touchscreen interface

All devices are fully integrated with Synerion’s software platform, and come with customizable branding and configuration.

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7. Built for Canada and the U.S.

Synerion is proud to serve organizations across North America with:

  • Bilingual support (English and French)
  • Compliance with Canadian and U.S. labor regulations
  • Seamless integration with North American payroll providers

UKG’s global reach is impressive, but for North American mid-market companies, Synerion often delivers more relevant tools faster.

“We switched from UKG to Synerion because we wanted a system that worked for our managers — not just our IT team. The onboarding was seamless, the time clocks were impressive, and the integration with ADP saved us hours each week.”

— Director of HR, Manufacturing Firm, Ontario

Conclusion: When to Choose Synerion Over UKG

If you’re evaluating UKG, but want:

  • A more cost-effective, modular pricing model
  • Faster implementation and easier end-user adoption
  • Stronger North American support
  • Seamless integration with your existing payroll
  • Smart AI tools that don’t require a data science degree

Then Synerion may be the better fit.

We invite you to compare for yourself — book a personalized demo today and discover the power of a workforce management partner that puts your success first.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the best alternative to UKG?
Synerion is a top-rated UKG alternative offering faster onboarding, modular pricing, North American support, and integrations with ADP, SAP, and QuickBooks.

Does Synerion integrate with ADP Workforce Now?
Yes — Synerion is a certified ADP Platinum Partner and integrates natively with ADP Workforce Now, as well as SAP SuccessFactors, QuickBooks, BambooHR, and others.

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