What are the key features to look for in a WFM software vendor?

1 Scalability and flexibility

Your WFM software should be able to grow and adapt with your business needs and goals. Look for a vendor that offers cloud-based solutions that can scale up or down as your workforce size, location, and demand change. You also want a vendor that can customize and configure the software to suit your specific industry, workflows, and preferences. A flexible WFM software can help you avoid unnecessary costs, complexity, and inefficiency.

2 Integration and compatibility

Your WFM software should be able to integrate seamlessly with your existing systems and platforms, such as HR, payroll, CRM, and ERP. This can help you streamline your data management, reporting, and analysis, as well as improve your communication and collaboration across departments and teams. Look for a vendor that supports open APIs, web services, and data exchange formats that can enable smooth and secure data transfer and synchronization. You also want a vendor that can ensure compatibility with your devices, browsers, and operating systems.

3 Functionality and usability

When selecting a WFM software, it’s important to ensure that it is able to provide the necessary functionality and usability to manage your workforce effectively and efficiently. Look for a vendor that offers features such as automated scheduling and forecasting, real-time monitoring and analytics, employee engagement and empowerment, and compliance and security. Automated scheduling should match staff availability, skills, and preferences with customer demand and service level goals. Real-time monitoring should track staff performance, productivity, and compliance, as well as identify and resolve issues. Employee engagement should enable staff to access their schedules, request changes, swap shifts, provide feedback, and receive recognition and rewards through mobile apps or web portals. Compliance should ensure the WFM software meets legal, ethical, and regulatory standards, as well as protects data and privacy from unauthorized access or breach.