Glossary

CandorIQ glossary

A comprehensive list of terms and definitions to help you better understand key concepts and terminology.

Compensation & Pay Structures

Base Salary

Learn how strategic headcount planning helps HR and Finance align on workforce needs, control budgets, and support business growth with the right talent at the right time.

Total Compensation

Understand what base salary means, how it differs from total compensation, and why it's a foundational element in building fair, competitive pay structures.

Variable Pay

Learn what variable pay is, how it complements base salary, and how companies use it to drive performance, align incentives, and retain top talent.

Workforce Planning & Headcount

Headcount Planning

Learn how strategic headcount planning helps HR and Finance align on workforce needs, control budgets, and support business growth with the right talent at the right time.

Scenario Planning

Learn how headcount scenario planning helps companies model workforce changes, anticipate budget impact, and make smarter, faster decisions in an uncertain environment.

Workforce Budgeting

Learn how workforce budgeting helps HR and Finance teams align headcount plans, compensation strategy, and business goals—while staying on budget.

Compensation Cycles & HR Processes

Compensation Review

Learn what a compensation review is, how it supports equitable and competitive pay practices, and how to run a review process that aligns employee performance with business goals.

Merit Cycle

Learn what a merit cycle is (also called a compensation or comp cycle), why it’s essential to performance-based pay, and how to run a fair, efficient, and strategic review process.

HR & Finance Collaboration

Cap Table

Understand what a cap table is, how it impacts equity and ownership, and why it's essential for compensation planning, fundraising, and strategic decision-making.

HRIS (Human Resource Information System)

Discover what an HRIS is, what it manages, and how it supports more efficient, accurate, and strategic HR and compensation operations.

Compliance & Policy

Fair Pay Act

Learn what the Fair Pay Act is, how it impacts compensation practices, and what companies must do to promote pay equity and avoid legal risks.

Pay Transparency Laws

Learn what pay transparency laws require, how they vary by state and country, and what companies must do to stay compliant while building a culture of fairness and trust.