The "6Cs of Onboarding" framework by Talya Bauer Ph.D. is a science-driven framework that helps organizations build mature onboarding processes. The benefits include reduced turnover, faster productivity ramp, and better employee engagement.
In this article, we compare Workday Onboarding and Preppio using the 6C framework and maturity scale.
Workday: Compliance and Triggers
Workday functions as an all-in-one HRM with a compliance-driven onboarding approach. The platform is system-first oriented and focuses on:
- Automated task notifications via email based on pending Workday tasks
- Streamlined compliance management (equipment provisioning, system access, data gathering)
- Serves as central repository and system of record for employee data
Key Benefits
- Reminds managers to complete tasks in Workday
- Maintains updated employee data
- Ensures new hire readiness on day one
Challenges
- Difficult UI for HR and employee use; requires consultant support
- Poor user experience doesn't drive action; low task completion and email engagement
- Limited insights into onboarding experience and task execution
Preppio: Engagement and Employee Experience
Preppio is a best-of-breed platform emphasizing manager engagement, aligned with the 6Cs framework. Key features include:
- Pre-boarding via SMS (videos, surveys, pictures, no login required)
- Cultural training acceleration for new hire integration
- HR insights into process success and failure
- Continuous feedback via surveys (recruitment experience, first week, success, eNPS through 12 months)
- Manager/buddy nudging with templates and reminders
- MSTeams chatbot with AI for answering questions
- Modern, user-friendly interface with multi-channel connectivity
Key Benefits
- Reduces early attrition, boosts eNPS
- Accelerates productivity, reduces manager burden
- Easy HR setup; frictionless for managers/employees (no additional login)
Where the Solutions Converge
Both platforms offer data collection from employees and automated communication and task management. What distinguishes them is Preppio's emphasis on a frictionless, mobile-friendly SMS approach without login requirements.
Comparative Metrics
- Workday email open rates: often less than 50%
- Workday click-through rates: 25%
- Preppio completion rates: over 80% versus 25% with email-driven solutions
Why Choose One Over the Other?
Challenges with Workday Alone
- Email notifications lack visual engagement (images, videos)
- Younger and non-desk employees ignore or miss emails
- Manager email overload reduces onboarding prioritization
In Favor of Workday
- Necessary for maintaining accurate HCM data
- Practical for system automation and compliance
In Favor of Preppio
- SMS-based, modern interface more engaging
- Captures attention of younger employees
- Superior data collection efficiency
- Better HR usability for journey building
- Aligns with Bauer's 6Cs framework
Many organizations, like Scoot Airlines, use both platforms to get the best of both worlds. We recommend assessing your organization's needs and choosing the solution that fits best — or combining them for complete onboarding coverage.
See How Workday + Preppio Work Together
Book a 15-minute demo call to see how Preppio complements Workday and provides complete onboarding coverage.





