Business software firm Sage South Africa has acquired SkillsMap, a cloud-based service that connects employers with talent.

Sage South Africa says it has acquired SkillsMap to "broaden its payroll and HR (human resources) offering with a comprehensive recruitment solution".

SkillsMap will also be renamed 'Sage SkillsMap', while plans are in place for the service to be integrated into both Sage VIP and Sage Pastel's Payroll & HR systems.

"The Sage SkillsMap software allows employers to manage their own recruitment process – filtering candidates, consolidating data and tracking placements. For a monthly subscription fee, it gives companies access to an applicant tracking system, public talent community and customised client career portal," explains Sage in a statement.

"The applicant tracking system allows recruiters to target as many candidates as they desire, while the system filters and screens applicants on their behalf. The Sage SkillsMap Talent Community provides a professional networking platform for candidates to map their current skill level and create a roadmap for their own career planning," notes the company.