Navigating the digital tools that support public operations is crucial for municipal employees. For staff across Norfolk, PeopleSoft Norfolk serves as the integrated platform for HR, payroll, finance, and administrative services. From onboarding to retirement, it’s the digital core that powers essential functions. This guide offers a comprehensive overview of PeopleSoft Norfolk, helping you make the most of its features and streamline your workflow.
What Is PeopleSoft Norfolk?
PeopleSoft Norfolk is a customized enterprise resource planning (ERP) system based on Oracle’s PeopleSoft platform, configured to meet the operational and regulatory needs of Norfolk’s public sector. Instead of juggling spreadsheets and isolated tools, this unified platform connects departments through shared data and workflows—creating consistency and improving accuracy.
Key Modules
- HR: Manages hiring, job data, performance tracking, and separations.
- Payroll: Calculates wages, taxes, handles direct deposit, and manages timesheets.
- Benefits: Administers health, retirement, and voluntary benefits.
- Finance: Tracks budgets, handles procurement, and manages financial reporting.
- Self-Service: Employees access pay stubs, benefits, tax forms, and personal data; managers oversee approvals and team metrics.
Core Features Breakdown
HR Management
- Digital onboarding and centralized personnel records.
- Position tracking, reporting hierarchies, and performance evaluations.
Payroll & Compensation
- Automated payroll based on schedules and leave balances.
- Online access to paychecks and tax documents.
- Manage direct deposit easily through Employee Self-Service (ESS).
Benefits Administration
- Online open enrollment and life event updates.
- Compare and enroll in plans; update dependent info with ease.
Financial Management
- Real-time budget tracking and procurement workflows.
- Submit and monitor expense reports.
- Use General Ledger and AP modules for comprehensive financial control.
Employee Self-Service (ESS)
- Update personal details (address, phone, emergency contacts).
- Request time off and view leave balances.
- View and download pay stubs, tax forms, and benefit summaries.
- Use the company directory to connect with coworkers.
How to Access and Navigate PeopleSoft Norfolk
Access
- Log in via a secure portal provided by HR or IT (e.g., https://peoplesoft.norfolk.gov).
- Use your assigned User ID and password.
Navigation
- Homepage: Tailored dashboard with alerts, approvals, and shortcuts.
- Menu: Access modules like Payroll, Benefits, and Financials.
- Search bar: Type phrases like “update address” or “request time off” to find features fast.
- Bookmarks: Save frequently visited pages for quick access.
Mobile Access
While the system is browser-friendly, the mobile experience may vary. Some functions work well on tablets and smartphones, though larger tasks are best handled on a desktop.
Common Use Cases
For Employees
- Address Change: ESS > Update Personal Info
- Time Off Request: ESS > Time Reporting > Request Time Off
- Check Paycheck: ESS > View Paycheck
- Enroll in Benefits: ESS > Benefits > Enroll in Benefits
For HR
- New Hire: Add job record and initiate onboarding via Workforce Admin
- Promotion: Update job data and salary; system notifies Payroll
- Reports: Use built-in tools to generate retirement eligibility or job vacancy reports
For Finance
- Procurement: Create requisitions, generate POs, track vendor payments
- Budget Monitoring: Analyze expenses using real-time reports
- Year-End Close: Validate transactions and run final ledger reports
For IT
- User Issues: Resolve login errors, unlock accounts, reset passwords
- Reporting Needs: Create custom reports using PeopleSoft Query
- System Updates: Coordinate upgrades and test in staging before live deployment
Why Use PeopleSoft Norfolk?
Using PeopleSoft Norfolk provides substantial benefits, including:
- Data Centralization: Unified records across departments
- Efficiency: Automation reduces manual tasks and paperwork
- Transparency: Employees and managers have on-demand access to key data
- Accuracy: Reduces payroll errors and improves reporting quality
- Compliance: Built-in logic helps meet legal and regulatory requirements
- Empowerment: ESS allows employees to control their own records
- Decision Support: Real-time reports aid strategic planning
- Cost Savings: Cuts paper use, errors, and redundant administrative tasks
Troubleshooting Common Issues
- Login Issues: Use “Forgot Password?” or contact IT
- Missing Pages/Errors: Clear your browser cache or switch browsers
- Slow System: Avoid peak times, close extra tabs, and report issues to IT
- Form Submission Fails: Ensure all required fields are complete; contact support if needed
Support Contacts:
- HR Department: For payroll, benefits, or personal data issues
- IT Help Desk: For login access, technical errors, or performance issues
Tips for Power Users
- Keep your contact and tax info updated in ESS
- Bookmark frequently used pages
- Use the search bar to locate features quickly
- Review pay statements after each cycle
- Submit time-off and benefit requests early
- Explore standard reports related to your role
- Attend training sessions offered by HR or IT
- Familiarize yourself with ESS tools you don’t often use
- Always log out when using shared devices
- Provide feedback to improve the system
Training & Support Resources
- Internal Intranet: Offers PeopleSoft Norfolk guides, FAQs, and quick reference cards
- HR & IT Departments: Your primary points of contact for functional or technical help
- Oracle Documentation: Use for advanced learning (search for your specific module version)
- Colleagues & Supervisors: Often the best resource for practical, department-specific tips
Final Thoughts
PeopleSoft Norfolk is the digital engine behind Norfolk’s administrative efficiency. It enhances accuracy, transparency, and access for city employees across all roles. By leveraging the platform’s full capabilities—from payroll to purchasing—you not only simplify your daily tasks but contribute to the smooth operation of Norfolk’s public services. Invest a little time in learning the platform and you’ll save hours in the long run.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Q: What is PeopleSoft Norfolk used for?
A: It’s the central system for managing HR, payroll, benefits, finance, and employee self-service functions within the City of Norfolk.
Q: How do I log in to PeopleSoft Norfolk?
A: Use the login portal URL provided by your HR or IT department. You’ll need your employee ID or user credentials.
Q: I forgot my password. What should I do?
A: Click “Forgot Password?” on the login page or contact your IT Help Desk for reset assistance.
Q: How do I request vacation or sick leave?
A: Log into ESS, go to Time Reporting or Absence Management, select “Request Time Off,” choose your dates and leave type, then submit for manager approval.
Q: Can I access my past pay stubs online?
A: Yes. Navigate to Payroll in ESS and click “View Paycheck” to see or download your current and previous pay statements.
Q: Who should I contact if something looks wrong in my data?
A: For incorrect personal or pay-related info, contact HR. For system errors or login issues, contact IT.
