Employee Scheduling Software: 10 Best in 2024, Reviewed!
Managing several teams or staffing a 24-hour business can make scheduling a logistical challenge. To help you avoid employee scheduling challenges, save employee work hours, and enhance employee satisfaction, I've sincerely compiled this list of the best employee scheduling software in 2024.
Introduction
With so many tools available, it can be daunting to choose the right employee work scheduling software. Effective employee shift scheduling goes beyond just adjusting and filling employee time slots; it requires a thoughtful approach to match availability, skills, and business demands. Reviewing numerous employee work scheduling software, I have curated this list of the most efficient tools to help you simplify the process, minimize conflicts and save valuable employee time. These platforms make managing shifts quicker, more dependable, and less stressful.
Let this guide help you find the best solutions to streamline your scheduling and keep your team fully supported.
What is Employee Scheduling Software?
Employee scheduling software is a digital tool that helps businesses organize and manage employee work schedules efficiently. By automating tasks like shift planning, time-off requests, and availability tracking, it eliminates scheduling conflicts and ensures optimal resource allocation.
The software often includes features such as drag-and-drop scheduling, mobile app accessibility, and real-time notifications, making it easier for managers and employees to stay updated. Additionally, many tools integrate seamlessly with payroll, attendance, and time-tracking systems to boost overall workforce productivity.
Widely used in appointment-driven industries like healthcare, retail, hospitality, fitness, and home services (e.g., plumbing or HVAC), this software saves time, ensures compliance with labor laws, and enhances operational efficiency.
Key Features of Employee Scheduling Software
Before diving into the top tools, consider these essential features:
Automated Scheduling: Eliminates manual errors and speeds up the process.
Payroll Integration: Syncs employee schedules with payroll systems for accurate payments.
Mobile Accessibility: Empowers employees to check schedules and request changes on the go.
Customizable Templates: Offers flexibility to create schedules tailored to your business needs.
Analytics Tools: Provides actionable insights into scheduling trends and workforce productivity.
Seamless Shift Swapping: Facilitates easy shift swapping and coverage for unavailable hours.
GPS Time Tracking with Geofencing: Advanced GPS and geofencing technology ensure staff are logging hours accurately from their designated job sites
How to Choose the Right HR Scheduling Software for Your Business
Choosing the right employee scheduling software is a critical decision for optimizing workforce management and enhancing organizational efficiency. Follow these steps to ensure you select a solution that aligns with your unique needs:
Define Your Business Challenges: Start by identifying the specific challenges you want the software to address. Are you dealing with frequent scheduling conflicts, excessive manual work, or poor visibility into employee availability? Clearly outlining your pain points will help you prioritize the features you need.
Identify Your Key Users: Determine who will use the software. Is it just HR professionals and managers, or will employees also require access? Knowing this helps in estimating costs, selecting user-friendly interfaces, and ranking feature priorities for different roles.
Consider Integration Needs: Evaluate your existing tools and processes. Decide which tools (e.g., HR management systems, payroll software, or time-tracking apps) the scheduling software should integrate with. Alternatively, explore if the software can consolidate multiple functions to reduce complexity and costs.
Establish Desired Outcomes: Think about the results you want to achieve. Are you aiming for reduced scheduling conflicts, better shift coverage, or a smoother employee experience? Define success metrics such as improved efficiency, fewer errors, or higher employee satisfaction to guide your selection.
Align with Your Workflows: Analyze your current scheduling workflows and delivery methodology. Identify what’s working well and what needs improvement. Choose software that fits seamlessly into your operations without requiring significant disruptions or retraining.
Evaluate Scalability and Flexibility: Ensure the software can grow with your business. Whether you’re expanding teams or adding new locations, choose a tool that offers flexibility in scaling up or adapting to changes in your organization.
Consider User Support and Training: Look for software with robust customer support, onboarding assistance, and training resources. This ensures your team can adopt the tool quickly and maximize its value.
Test Before Committing: Many providers offer free trials or demos. Take advantage of these to assess usability, features, and integration capabilities in a real-world setting.
Pro Tip :
Every business is different, so don’t base your decision solely on popularity. Focus on aligning the software with your specific challenges, goals, and workflows to maximize its effectiveness.
Employee Scheduling Software VS Employee Shift Scheduling Software
Employee scheduling software is a digital tool that helps businesses organize and manage employee work schedules efficiently. By automating tasks like shift planning, time-off requests, and availability tracking, it eliminates scheduling conflicts and ensures optimal resource allocation.
The software often includes features such as drag-and-drop scheduling, mobile app accessibility, and real-time notifications, making it easier for managers and employees to stay updated. Additionally, many tools integrate seamlessly with payroll, attendance, and time-tracking systems to boost overall workforce productivity.
Widely used in appointment-driven industries like healthcare, retail, hospitality, fitness, and home services (e.g., plumbing or HVAC), this software saves time, ensures compliance with labor laws, and enhances operational efficiency.
List of the Best Scheduling Software in 2024
When I Work : Perfect for SMBs, featuring an easy-to-use mobile app and employee self-service options.
Connecteam : An all-in-one platform for deskless teams, combining scheduling, communication, and task management in one app.
Homebase : An ideal software for SMBs to streamline shift management and enhance team coordination.
Intuit QuickBooks Time : A go-to for businesses needing time tracking and payroll synchronization.
ShiftBoard : Designed for enterprise-level scheduling, focusing on compliance, cost management, and predictive tools.
ClockShark : Specializes in scheduling and time tracking for construction and field service industries, with GPS-enabled tools.
Buddy Punch : A simple and user-friendly platform for small businesses, combining scheduling and time tracking.
TCP Humanity Scheduling : Enterprise-grade scheduling software with powerful forecasting, real-time communication, and integration capabilities.
Rippling : Streamlines shift management, boosts team productivity, and ensures compliance with ease.
Deputy : Known for its intuitive interface, AI-powered scheduling, and robust compliance tools.
Detailed Description - Best Employee Scheduling Software in 2024
When I Work
When I Work, starting at $1.50 per user per month, is a top choice for small to midsize businesses (SMBs) seeking intuitive and affordable employee scheduling solutions. With a user-friendly interface accessible via desktop and mobile apps, it simplifies scheduling, shift trading, time-off requests, and attendance tracking. Notably, it’s free for teams of up to 75 employees, making it one of the most cost-effective options in the market. The software also supports seamless management of employee availability and includes dedicated Android and iOS apps, ensuring on-the-go access for teams.
Recommended For: For SMBs looking for a reliable, no-frills scheduling solution, it delivers exceptional value and convenience.
Standout Features
One-click scheduling tool
Mobile-friendly interface
Time tracking and attendance monitoring
Employee availability and shift swap tools
SMS and email notifications
Overtime management tools
- It offers straightforward usability.
- It stands out with a strong core feature set and sleek design.
Customer Review
“Easy to use and detailed information are displayed from the moment you logged in to the page.” (Source: G2)
- Its reporting and integrations with third-party apps like HR or payroll systems are less robust compared to competitors.
- Advanced features like forecasting are limited.
Customer Review
“#1 frustration is pulling reports.” (Source: G2)
Notable Clients
- Dunkin Donuts
- Medtronic
- Tesla Motors
- Sound Cloud
- Harvard University
Pricing
Connecteam
Connecteam takes the hassle out of employee scheduling with powerful tools designed to save managers time and streamline operations. Its intuitive platform enables effortless shift planning, allocation, and monitoring, supported by features like reusable schedule templates and automatic alerts to notify employees of upcoming shifts or changes. The standout auto-scheduling feature aligns shifts with employee availability, distributes work equitably, and ensures proper staffing by assigning jobs based on qualifications. With just a few clicks, managers can create ongoing or recurring shifts, assign open slots, and handle conflicts efficiently.
Recommended For: For businesses seeking a fast, flexible, and reliable scheduling solution, Connecteam delivers unmatched convenience and functionality for deskless and mobile-first teams.
Standout Features
All-in-one scheduling and time tracking
Team chat and task management
GPS-enabled time clock
Customizable templates for scheduling
HR and training tools
Mobile-first design
- It saves time and increases productivity with mobile-first custom checklists, forms, and reports.
- Easy to set up and operate along with being affordable, making it ideal for SMBs.
Customer Review
“Made organizing staff and events so much easier! Great customer support when needed!” (Source: G2)
- Analytics features are not as robust for large enterprises.
- Fewer app integrations compared to competitors.
Customer Review
“Some oversights/missing features.” (Source: G2)
Notable Clients
- Volvo
- Mango
- Subway
- DHL
Pricing
Homebase
Homebase stands out because of its user-friendly scheduling tools that make the process so much easier and more flexible. The drag-and-drop feature, combined with automatic scheduling, allows users to quickly create schedules while considering employee availability and time-off requests. Real-time notifications keep teams updated on any schedule changes, and the customizable templates help users set up recurring shifts in no time, saving hours of work. Additional features like color-coded roles, shift notes, and daily earnings visibility for employees make Homebase a go-to solution for managing schedules smoothly and keeping everyone on track.
Recommended For: Small to midsize businesses looking for easy-to-use employee scheduling software.
Standout Features
Employee Availability Management
Time-Off Management
Real-Time Notifications
Customizable Templates
Drag-and-Drop Scheduling
Auto-Scheduling
- It is easy to monitor time sheets.
- The mobile app is smooth for managing schedules, approving shifts, and making updates from anywhere.
Customer Review
“We like the mobile app; the employees use it every day and it works pretty well for timesheets.” (Source: G2)
- It has limited features and customizations.
- It is quite expensive.
Customer Review
“Cost is higher than others.” (Source: G2)
Notable Clients
- Yogasix
- Alchemy Works
- Heritage Chicago
- Orange Theory
Pricing
Intuit QuickBooks Time
QuickBooks Time is an excellent scheduling solution for businesses already leveraging QuickBooks for accounting or payroll, offering seamless integration to streamline workforce management. With its Workforce app, employees can clock in and out from their mobile devices or a kiosk, while employers benefit from task scheduling, real-time updates, and payroll synchronization—all within the QuickBooks interface. The Elite plan adds advanced features like geofencing, mileage tracking, and timesheet signatures, making it ideal for field-based teams. While it doesn’t support importing data from external calendars, it can sync schedules with Google Calendar and Outlook for better accessibility. Flexible pricing options and a 30-day free trial make QuickBooks Time a strong contender for businesses seeking efficient scheduling and payroll integration in one platform.
Recommended For: Businesses needing time tracking and payroll synchronization.
Standout Features
Seamless integration with QuickBooks
Real-time employee time tracking
GPS location tracking for field teams
Customizable scheduling templates
Mobile app for on-the-go management
Overtime and compliance tracking
- Great integrations and accurate time-tracking.
- Offers great customer support.
Customer Review
“And because QBO time is part of QBO we can expect very good and frequent customer support.” (Source: G2)
- Lacks detailed analytics and has room for upgrade.
- The software is relatively a bit too expensive.
Customer Review
“QBO time is a little bit expensive as compared to the other time tracking softwares.” (Source: G2)
Pricing
ShiftBoard
ShiftBoard is a robust employee scheduling and shift planning solution, starting at $3 per user per month—an affordable choice for small business budgets. While its calendar view may lack the sleek intuitiveness of competitors like Deputy, ShiftBoard compensates with a feature-rich platform that addresses the core scheduling needs of growing teams. Though it could benefit from enhancements like a user help forum, ShiftBoard’s strengths lie in its reliability and affordability. It remains a competitive option for businesses seeking a cost-effective, comprehensive scheduling tool. Despite a few areas for improvement, ShiftBoard holds its place as one of the strongest contenders in the scheduling software market.
Recommended For: Businesses with complex workforce scheduling needs, making it ideal for enterprises with rotating shifts.
Standout Features
Predictive scheduling tools
Labor cost optimization features
Real-time compliance alerts
Employee self-service for shifts
Advanced workforce analytics
Integration with payroll and HR systems
- It offers excellent analytics and reporting capabilities.
- Highly scalable for enterprise-level organizations.
Customer Review
“Shiftboard allows us to house over 500 of our workers in one place and gives them accounts so that they can log in to update their information themselves.” (Source: G2)
- It incorporates a high initial cost.
- There are limitations in its customization capabilities.
Customer Review
“Though we have paid for a custom solution, we found that some aspects of Shiftboard are not customizable.” (Source: G2)
Notable Clients
- Shell Oils, North America
- Shamrock Foods
- BASF, Vidalia
- Bridgestone
- Kimberly-Clark
Pricing
ClockShark
ClockShark is the ultimate scheduling and time-tracking solution for businesses in construction and field services, offering tools tailored to the complexities of managing field teams. Its all-in-one employee scheduling app functions as a work calendar, time clock, and job manager, enabling managers to create and adjust work schedules, assign jobs, and notify employees of changes in real time. Field workers can clock in and out, view detailed task assignments, and track job site locations directly from their schedule, ensuring seamless communication and accountability. Optimized for both desktop and mobile devices, ClockShark simplifies workforce management, making it an indispensable tool for field-based industries.
Recommended For: Construction and field service industries
Standout Features
GPS time tracking for mobile teams
Drag-and-drop shift scheduling
Job costing and labor budgeting tools
Offline functionality for remote areas
Mobile-friendly design for on-the-go use
Integration with payroll systems like QuickBooks
- Works well with project management and payroll tools like QuickBooks.
- Provides easy time-tracking capabilities.
Customer Review
“There is GPS tracking to ensure that employees are clocking in at the correct time and at the correct job.” (Source: G2)
- The mobile app at times glitches.
- It lacks advanced reporting tools.
Customer Review
“The reports cannot be customized.” (Source: G2)
Notable Clients
- Santa Barbara Forge
- Xtreme Janitors
- Urban Design Solar
Pricing
Buddy Punch
Buddy Punch streamlines time tracking and employee scheduling for businesses managing distributed teams across multiple locations and time zones. Its innovative Time Clock Locations feature allows managers to create and assign specific locations to employees, who can then log onto their work site directly on timecards. This enables real-time visibility into hours spent at each site, simplifying productivity tracking and improving accountability. Additionally, Buddy Punch generates detailed reports for single or multiple locations, empowering managers to assess workloads and optimize resource allocation effectively. For businesses seeking a flexible and intuitive scheduling solution, Buddy Punch delivers efficiency and control across diverse work environments.
Recommended For: Small businesses that need a simple and user-friendly platform for scheduling and time tracking.
Standout Features
Intuitive time clock and scheduling
Biometric and webcam punching
PTO and overtime tracking
Payroll system integrations
Customizable employee reports
Mobile-friendly interface
- It offers a user-friendly design.
- The customer support team is knowledgeable and responsive.
Customer Review
“Customer support is very helpful.” (Source: G2)
- The features might be limited for larger organizations.
- At times, there are minor lags.
Customer Review
“Sometimes, it takes a while to load when I'm trying to log in, and it freezes when I'm about to clock in for a break or lunch.” (Source: G2)
Notable Clients
- Starbucks
- State Farm
- The YMCA
- H&R Block
Pricing
TCP Humanity Scheduling
TCP Humanity stands out in the crowded employee scheduling and shift planning software market by offering unparalleled flexibility and ease of use. Unlike niche solutions tailored to specific industries or rigid frameworks that complicate customization, Humanity adapts seamlessly to the needs of small to midsize businesses (SMBs) across various sectors. Starting at just $2 per user per month, it combines affordability with a robust feature set, making it a top choice in the shift scheduling category. Moreover, recent user interface (UI) updates have further enhanced Humanity's functionality, delivering an integrated yet intuitive platform for attendance and shift planning.
Recommended For: For medium-sized businesses seeking a versatile, user-friendly scheduling solution, Humanity delivers on all fronts.
Standout Features
AI-driven scheduling optimization
Multi-location workforce management
Compliance and labor law tracking
Real-time schedule updates
Integration with payroll systems
Employee self-scheduling capabilities
- Humanity mobile apps boast near feature parity with the web interface, ensuring seamless scheduling on the go.
- It also prioritizes user support, offering in-app guidance, live chat assistance, and even personal onboarding with an account executive to ensure businesses maximize their experience.
Customer Review
“The customer support of Humanity is always helpful, very kind, and to the point.” (Source: G2)
- Falls on the expensive side for smaller businesses.
- A feature as vast could be overwhelming and require training for new users.
Customer Review
“Takes some time figuring out how to use the system.” (Source: G2)
Notable Clients
- University of Georgia
- UIC
- Amazon
- Camden
- Hampton by Milton
Pricing
Rippling
Rippling stands out in workforce management by seamlessly integrating HR, IT, and finance functions into one platform, streamlining business operations. Its scheduling feature is highly intuitive, offering a drag-and-drop interface to quickly assign shifts, copy patterns, and include breaks with ease. What sets Rippling apart is its real-time integration of employee data—like availability and pay rates—ensuring conflict-free scheduling and adherence to labor laws for enhanced compliance. The Rippling mobile app empowers employees to manage their schedules on the go, allowing them to request time off, swap shifts, or update availability effortlessly, while managers receive instant notifications about attendance issues. With automated processes to prevent over-scheduling and ensure fairness, Rippling delivers a robust, user-friendly solution that excels in efficiency and adaptability, making it a leading choice for modern businesses.
Recommended For: Companies of all sizes seeking employee scheduling solutions integrated with broader HR and workforce management capabilities.
Standout Features
Drag-and-Drop Scheduling
Real-Time Data Integration
Mobile App for Scheduling
Compliance Checks
Attendance Monitoring
Custom Workflow Automation
- Mobile app allows employees to manage their schedules seamlessly.
- The platform is easy to use.
Customer Review
“The interface is good to the eye and very easy to use.” (Source: G2)
- Requires investment in setup and training to leverage all capabilities effectively.
- The platform could be overwhelming for users who aren’t as tech-savvy.
Customer Review
“I sometimes find it frustrating to make schedule change requests or ask for time off.” (Source: G2)
Notable Clients
- AngelList
- FiveStars
- Highspot
- Envoy
Pricing
Deputy
Deputy is a top-tier employee scheduling and shift planning tool, earning an Editors' Choice award for its exceptional features and usability. What sets Deputy apart is its additional human resource (HR) functionalities, offering SMBs an all-in-one solution for scheduling and basic HR needs. While its HR capabilities may not rival specialized platforms like BambooHR or Zenefits, it provides excellent value for businesses seeking a dual-purpose tool. Its standout strengths include an intuitive user interface (UI), robust mobile support, extensive integrations, and a wide range of customization options. Backed by 24/7 customer support, Deputy ensures smooth operations for businesses of all sizes, placing it among the best scheduling solutions alongside competitors like Humanity.
Recommended For: SMBs looking to streamline scheduling and HR processes with a single, affordable solution, Deputy delivers an unmatched combination of flexibility, usability, and support.
Standout Features
AI-driven shift scheduling.
Mobile app with self-service options.
Real-time compliance alerts.
Drag-and-drop scheduling interface.
Seamless payroll integration.
Employee performance tracking.
- It’s an excellent option for shift-based industries.
- It offers a highly intuitive interface.
Customer Review
“It is very thorough and organized and has been life changing!” (Source: G2)
- Timesheets are easier to modify on the mobile phone app than on Windows.
- At times, there are glitches in the mobile app.
Customer Review
“One downside of Deputy is that the mobile app can occasionally be glitchy.” (Source: G2)
Notable Clients
- Harper Logistics
- Ace Hardware
- Trek
- F45
- Reliant Healthcare
Pricing
Benefits of Using HR Scheduling Software
The main benefits of incorporating HR scheduling software in your organization are:
Simplified Workforce Management: Automates shift scheduling, reducing errors and saving time.
Improved Communication: Centralized platforms allow employees and managers to communicate seamlessly.
Enhanced Compliance: Helps adhere to labor laws and avoids scheduling conflicts.
Real-Time Tracking: Offers live insights into attendance, availability, and scheduling updates.
Cost Savings: Optimizes workforce allocation to minimize overtime costs.
Potential Challenges of Using HR Scheduling Software
While HR scheduling software provides numerous benefits, there are also potential challenges to consider:
Privacy Concerns: Employees may feel their privacy is being invaded, leading to mistrust or dissatisfaction. This challenge can be mitigated with clear communication about monitoring policies.
High Costs: Advanced monitoring systems with comprehensive features can be expensive to implement, particularly for small businesses.
Over-Monitoring Risks: Excessive monitoring may create a stressful work environment, potentially lowering morale and productivity.
Technical Limitations: Some software may not integrate seamlessly with existing tools or may experience downtime, which could hinder its effectiveness.
Compliance Risks: In some regions, strict labor laws may restrict certain types of employee monitoring, exposing companies to legal issues if not implemented properly.
Misinterpretation of Data: Monitoring data might be misunderstood, leading to unfair assessments of employee performance. Training managers to interpret data accurately is essential to avoid these pitfalls.
FAQs
Q.1. How does HR Scheduling software work?
Ans: These tools work by installing software on employees' devices or running via cloud-based platforms. They monitor activities like application usage, website visits, and idle time while generating reports to help managers assess productivity.
Q.2. Why do companies use HR Scheduling software?
Ans: Companies use these tools to enhance productivity, ensure compliance, prevent data breaches, and manage remote teams effectively. By offering transparency, they help organizations identify areas for improvement and foster accountability.
Q.3. How does HR Scheduling software maintain employee privacy?
Ans: Many tools include features like customizable monitoring settings, restricted data access, and anonymized reporting. Transparent communication about monitoring practices can further ease privacy concerns.
Q.4. Can HR Scheduling software improve productivity?
Ans: Yes, by identifying unproductive behaviors and streamlining workflows, these tools help managers and employees focus on high-priority tasks, boosting overall productivity.
Q.5. Which industries benefit most from HR Scheduling software?
Ans: Industries like IT, finance, customer service, and healthcare often benefit the most, particularly those with remote, hybrid, or highly regulated environments.
This article is written by Shabana Shahnaz, a Product Research Analyst passionate about uncovering the nuances of software solutions. With a sharp analytical mind and a keen eye for detail, Shabana excels at comparing and contrasting software products at Vantage Circle. To get in touch, reach out to editor@vantagecircle.com
