The Comp Cycle Isn’t Over Just Because It’s Done: Prepare for Next Year Now

You’ve closed the books, distributed increases, and held your final compensation meetings. So it’s time to move on—right? Not quite. Even though this year’s merit cycle is technically complete, this is the moment to prepare for next year’s compensation cycle.

It’s tempting to shelve the spreadsheets and refocus on other HR priorities. But the smartest compensation leaders know that what happens after the cycle is just as important as what happens during it. Strategic improvement starts now.

Don’t Wait—Or You’ll Repeat the Same Pain

Most HR teams wait until planning season to review what didn’t go well. By then, it’s too late to make meaningful changes. The result? A frustrating repeat of last year’s pain:

• Version control issues in spreadsheets
• Manual errors during approvals
• Time-consuming consolidation of feedback
• Poor manager experience
• Last-minute adjustments before payroll deadlines

Waiting to prepare for next year’s compensation cycle puts you back in reactive mode. Your team deserves better—and so does your data.

What To Do Now While It’s Fresh

Instead of starting from scratch later, take advantage of this strategic window. The best insights are still top-of-mind—for you and your managers. Use this momentum to:

• Collect Feedback from Stakeholders: Managers can recall where the process stalled or worked smoothly. Ask now while details are still fresh.
• Review Your Pain Points: Where did your team spend the most time? What caused the most confusion? Did you scramble at the final step?
• Document Lessons Learned: Capture your team’s takeaways while they’re still relevant. Use these insights to guide improvements.
• Align Early with Finance: If budgets or merit guidance were unclear this time around, now’s the time to align for next year’s cycle.

This post-cycle moment isn’t just reflection—it’s opportunity.

If You’re Still Using Spreadsheets, It’s Time to Upgrade

Many teams still rely on spreadsheets to manage complex compensation cycles. But spreadsheets weren’t designed for workflows, collaboration, or data governance.

When you prepare for next year’s compensation cycle, consider whether your tools are helping or holding you back.

Here’s how compensation technology like SimplyMerit helps you get ahead:

• Centralized Platform: No more emailing spreadsheets or tracking versions.
• Automated Workflows: Managers know exactly what to do—and when.
• Data Security: Protect sensitive compensation decisions with user-level permissions and audit trails.
• Clear Approvals: Easily track where each decision sits and who needs to approve.
• Custom Configuration: Build your cycle with the flexibility your organization needs.

With tech like SimplyMerit, you’re not just streamlining logistics—you’re elevating your compensation strategy.

Prepare for Next Year’s Compensation Cycle—Starting Now

The truth is, the cycle isn’t over just because it’s done. If you wait to reflect, gather feedback, and explore better tools, you’re setting your team up for another year of frustration.

Instead, take the proactive route:
✅ Gather feedback now
✅ Identify your biggest friction points
✅ Start exploring compensation technology

Your next cycle can be smarter, smoother, and more aligned—if you start preparing now.

Let’s talk before next season sneaks up on you. Reach out to MorganHR and let’s explore how SimplyMerit can support your compensation goals.