Several principles can be identified that, when put into practice, will result in more productive employee scheduling.
Schedule split shifts
A split shift means scheduling employees for two time periods during the day with time off in between periods. For example, employees may work lunch service, be off for a few hours, then return to provide service at dinner. This concept is feasible where employees live close to the operation. It does, however, make for a very long day for the employee. It would also encounter strong opposition if the employees were unionized.
Schedule irregularly
The idea of irregular scheduling is that an employee should be called in to work at the time that business warrants, rather than starting at the same time each day. For example, if guests check out later on weekends than during the week, it makes sense to bring in housekeepers later on these days.
Use part-time personnel
It is unproductive to staff for peak periods using full-time employees. Full-time personnel can provide a steady, well-trained core of employees to meet average business conditions, while part-time workers can be used to supplement that core during peak periods.
Use a staffing guide
As noted above, a staffing guide links forecasted business and productivity standards to determine the number of employees needed at each hour of the day. Its use is critical to establishing control of labor cost.
- 2334 reads
