Cognos HR vs Fourth

Cognos HR, founded in 2015, bills itself as a "human capital consulting organization" that offers PEO services. It is based in Chicago and Oakbrook Terrace, IL, and seems to focus its service providing to that area. It promotes its services to small to medium-sized businesses (SMBs), startups, nonprofits, remote companies, and other "businesses in need" interested in cost-effective, all-inclusive HR solutions. Cognos HR helps their clients manage everything from everyday HR chores to risk mitigation and policy formulation. CognosHR and their clients sign into a services agreement that enables CognosHR to legally take on some employer-related obligations and risks on their client's behalf. Their services include HR infrastructure and support, payroll administration, compliance, workers' compensation, group benefit plans, risk management, medical benefits, 401(k) retirement plans, and so on. They do not specify any plans or pricing on their website, so prospective clients have to submit a request for a free consultation.

Fourth PEO, a leading Human Capital Management (HCM) software company headquartered in Austin, Texas, specializes in Professional Employer Organization (PEO) services for small and medium-sized businesses (SMBs). With a foundation in HCM since 1999, they have expanded into the PEO sphere, incorporating AI-driven technology into their platform. Catering to industries like restaurant, hospitality, and retail, Fourth offers a range of services, including payroll, HR solutions, benefits administration, tax management, and compliance assistance. While praised for live chat support, a dedicated HR team, and AI-driven tech, drawbacks include the lack of ESAC accreditation and limited pricing transparency. Despite some mixed customer feedback, Fourth remains a reputable choice for SMBs seeking streamlined business operations.