Dear Carla: I'll start by explainingapplicant tracking systems (ATS) in a bit more detail. An ATS is a type of software that processes job applications and provides an automated way for companies to manage the recruiting and hiring process. An ATS does this by sorting through thousands of resumes to search for keywords, thereby determining which resumes best fit the positions for which they were submitted. An ATS can be used for screening candidates, applicant testing, scheduling interviews, managing the hiring process, checking references, and completing new-hire paperwork. For employers, the integrated nature of the system streamlines the recruiting and application process, therefore saving them time and money.