BookStack vs Happy HR

BookStack is a free, open-source platform for organizing and storing information on a self-hosted instance. It organizes content into Books, Chapters and Pages, with a WYSIWYG editor and an optional Markdown editor with live preview. Search works within a book or across books, chapters and pages, and users can link directly to paragraphs. The editor includes diagrams.net drawing capability. Authentication supports OIDC, SAML2 and LDAP, as well as social-based secondary authentication options. Built-in multi-factor authentication can be enforced by role and uses TOTP and static backup codes. Content exports include contained HTML, PDF, plain text, Markdown and Portable ZIP. The project describes a growing REST API for automation and importing content. The MIT-licensed software has no cost to download and install. Setup requires PHP 8.2 or newer, MySQL 8.0 or MariaDB 10.6 or newer, Git, Composer 2.2 or newer and a PHP-compatible web server. BookStack does not currently support shared PHP hosting. Community support is free but does not assure a response, support or resolution; paid support plans are also listed.

Happy HR is a cloud-based HR platform for employee records and processes across the employee lifecycle. Its listed functions include recruitment, onboarding, performance management, time-off management, time tracking, safety, training, surveys, and asset management. Free recruitment software includes job advertising, candidate matching, and talent pool management. The site also describes a 30-day trial that requires at least one employee and does not require a credit card. Free rostering and timesheet management are included. Paid plans show a minimum of 10 employees and subscription terms of 12, 24, or 36 months. Self-guided and Pro are listed at $12 a month for a 12-month term, plus GST; Pro also has a one-time setup fee, with its amount not listed. Plans include 15 minutes of dedicated HR support per month, and Pro customers receive a qualified HR consultant. Payroll and learning are available as add-ons, and the platform integrates with accounting, rostering, ERP, and other app partners. Happy HR is available on web, Android, and iOS.