They rely too much on computers to sort candidates. companies today are simply overwhelmed by the number of applicants for jobs and rely too heavily on applicant-tracking software. "Software is by definition a pretty clumsy way to sort out something as complex as people and particularly how they fit jobs," he says. One benefit of applicant tracking system, or ATS, software is that it reduces employers' cost of hiring, so employers will continue to use it. Still it's a prime example of companies "being penny wise and foolish.