How to Perform a Parallel Test
Purpose:
Parallel testing confirms that gross payroll data in HCM TradeSeal matches your current payroll system — for the same pay period. It focuses on accuracy, not just data flow. You'll compare hours and gross pay across both systems to ensure alignment before going live.
✅ Step 1: Choose a Completed Pay Period for Comparison
Select a recent pay period that:
- Has already been processed in your current payroll system
- Includes a mix of employees, roles, fringes, and overtime
- Can be recreated in HCM TradeSeal using the original time data
💡 This gives you a clean, side-by-side comparison between the two systems.
✅ Step 2: Import or Enter Time Data
Use one of the following methods:
- Upload hours via the Source Upload screen
- Manually enter hours into the Cost Entry screen
Use the exact same time data from the original pay period you selected.
✅ Step 3: Review in the Rate Validation Screen
- Go to the Rate Validation screen
- Review each employee’s hours, wage rates, fringe benefits, and job costing
- Look closely at OT calculations, union rules, and benefit logic
- Compare HCM TradeSeal's gross pay results to your original payroll records for that pay period
This step helps catch any configuration issues before files are exported.
✅ Step 4: Compare Gross Totals Side by Side
- Review the payroll preview alongside your original payroll reports
- Compare:
- Gross pay
- Pre-tax deductions
- Fringe offsets (if applicable)
Look for mismatches or unexpected behavior due to setup differences or rounding.
What to Do If You Find Issues
- Document the differences clearly
- Check whether the issue is in the time data, rate configuration, or payroll system
- Contact our support team with:
- Screenshots of discrepancies
- The test file you used
- Any reports from your payroll system
When Is Parallel Testing Complete?
- Results from HCM TradeSeal match your current payroll for the same pay period
- Any differences are understood, explained, or resolved
- Your team feels confident in the accuracy of gross pay calculations
Let us know if you'd like support reviewing your parallel test results — we're happy to help.