Snapshot – How to Track Compensation Over Time
A snapshot is a recorded state of compensation metrics as of a specific date. It captures what a group or company looked like at that particular moment. A series of snapshots allows you to track trends even after salaries, work schedules, or staffing have changed.
What Is Included in the Data
In addition to the date of the snapshot, distinguish between the periods from which the compensation items originate. An October snapshot of annual bonuses may cover a different period than an October snapshot of base pay.
When Can You Identify a Trend
Check to see if the methodology, the components included, and the group definitions have remained the same. Also note any major hires, departures, and reorganizations.
The gap narrowed from 8% to 5%
In two sample snapshots, the gap narrowed by three percentage points. Meanwhile, several senior employees have left the company. HR will therefore conduct a separate review of the compensation trends for those who have remained with the group. Only then can it assess how the salary review has impacted this change.
What can you see in the SmartFP demo?
A list of saved snapshots, a detailed snapshot as of October 31, 2026, and a trend view are available. These materials can be used to demonstrate how to interpret historical results.
When analyzing the trend, verify how the tracked compensation difference is calculated and whether the composition of the comparable group has changed between snapshots.
No obligation and free of charge
What has changed between the two snapshots?
Use SmartFP to review the saved image and trend. We’ll show you when it makes sense to drill down from the summary figure to the group composition.
