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VCS Blog

19 August 2015

How Do I Choose An Appropriate Scheduling System?

Posted by VCS Software
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Appropriate-Scheduling-SystemScheduling software is the solution for businesses seeking to completely automate, streamline, simplify and improve the manner in which they assign/track jobs, manage overtime/part-time jobs, and oversee productivity. Regardless of the scope of services a business engages in, chances are that scheduling software can benefit their business processes.

While scheduling software may be universal in nature, the same cannot be said about the features, functionality and services found in the hundreds of scheduling applications that have popped up over the years. These features can vary from one provider to the next, making the selection process an essential component of implementing scheduling software for your business. You shouldn't venture into the scheduling software selection process blindly, given the integral role the application will ultimately play in operations. The following tips should be considered when you research a scheduling software provider.

Is The Software Cloud-Based?

Does the software you are interested in require installations, downloads or additional hardware? True online, cloud-based scheduling software is designed to be accessible from any Internet connection in the same manner as any web page, social media site or e-mail application. It should not require any installations, downloads or additional hardware. If it does, it's probably not cloud-based and may lack the necessary functionality.

Does The Software Provide The Necessary Functionality?

Conduct a thorough analysis of tasks you may need scheduling software for (besides self-scheduling). Consider these questions. Do you plan on sending automated reminders, or do you want an automatic calling feature? Does the software need to be integrated with other software? It is helpful to create a "wish list" of features so you can check to see which features are available.

Is The Software Provider Dependable?

How long has the service provider been in business? The years of service can be a good sign of a businesses’ dependability. The Internet has introduced a culture of "fly-by-night" businesses that are here one day and gone the next, so it is important to select a service provider who won't suddenly disappear. Consider the software provider’s location. Do they actively list their contact information on their web site? You should be cautious of services that do not provide an address or are based in a foreign country, since they may not have the same security standards as domestic providers. Also, should anything go wrong, you would have little or no recourse.

Can Other System Users In Your Industry Provide Positive Testimonials?

Can the software service provide references, testimonials or case studies to strengthen their case? Businesses in a specific industry may use the scheduling software in a similar manner, so it's beneficial to seek examples from these clients. A "real-life" example can paint a more detailed picture of how well scheduling software meets typical needs. Most software providers should be more than willing to share references or testimonials. If possible, contact these businesses and inquire about how they use the application. Alternatively, feel free to check out our Industries page to learn how our software applications can best fit your business.

Does The Software Provide Additional Features To Help Your Business Operate More Efficiently?

Effective scheduling software offers more than just scheduling. Ideally, it should come equipped with other features to help an organization operate more efficiently. Some of these features include reporting and record-keeping capabilities, and the ability to calculate and track employee compensation for the services they were scheduled for. Each business has different needs; so make sure you thoroughly review all the offerings!

VCS Software | Scheduling Software Systems

Traditional time & attendance systems - which are still widely used today – clock the hours employees are on the job after they have worked because the hours are counted after the shift has taken place. This reactive approach breeds overspending and inefficiencies for companies. VCS’ software systems compute data prior to shift work, so that the planned hours and positions are properly staffed. Proactive scheduling promotes a productive, compliant, and fiscally responsible workforce. If you have any concerns with finding the appropriate scheduling system, feel free to contact us.

Scheduling System Comparison Chart