10 Best Call Center Scheduling Software Solutions

10 Best Call Center Scheduling Software Solutions
Written by
Daria Olieshko
Published on
3 Oct 2024
Read time
16 - 18 min read
Efficient top call center software management necessitates careful planning and accurate scheduling. Ensuring that all shifts are covered, agents are engaged, and customer service runs well may be challenging without the right instruments. Scheduling software for call centers may be useful in this situation.These products aim to streamline the workforce management procedure while maximizing agent output and cutting expenses. In this post, we will cover the top 10 scheduling software for call centers solutions that may help your business prosper, giving you crucial insights, features, pros, and drawbacks, along with information on how to select the best tool for your requirements.

What Is Call Center Scheduling Software

A specific tool, scheduling software for call centers, is meant to assist contact centers in better managing their employees. It maximizes client support and operational efficiency by scheduling an automation process, which guarantees that the appropriate number of agents are accessible at suitable times.With the use of this scheduling software for call centers, managers may make, distribute, and modify schedules that take into consideration a range of variables, including client demands, personnel availability, and peak call periods. It serves as the framework that controls call center activities, raises overall levels of client satisfaction, and increases agent productivity.

How Scheduling Software Can Benefit Your Call Center

In regard to call center management, efficient scheduling software for call centers has several advantages that enhance customer and employee happiness. This is how your contact center tool may be transformed by it.The shift allocation process is first and mainly automated and made simpler by scheduling software for call centers, which saves time and effort compared to manual scheduling. By reducing the possibility of human mistakes, this technology makes sure that sufficient agents are on hand at busy periods to answer incoming calls. Consequently, agents are free to concentrate more on delivering great customer service rather than getting weighed down by administrative work.Additionally, efficient scheduling software for call centers improves staff efficiency. Managers may make plans that match real demand by using these tools, which analyze and estimate call volumes based on past call data. Better resource allocation and the avoidance of situations where contact centers are either overstaffed or understaffed are the ultimate results of this, which lowers operating costs and boosts productivity.Making use of effective scheduling software for call centers may result in more customer happiness, simpler operations, and higher employee morale. Contact centers may improve company outcomes by making use of technology to provide a more receptive and efficient workplace.

1. Higher agent productivity

Scheduling software for call centers ensures that agents perform effectively without being overworked or underused by automating shift assignments and job allocation. This lowers idle time and boosts output in general.

2. Improves transparency

Transparency among the workforce is promoted by the application of contact center solutions. Fairness and clarity are promoted by the fact that agents may seek time off, switch shifts, and view their schedules via a single, centralized website.

3. Higher agent engagement

When flexible scheduling is combined with equitable job allocation, agent morale and engagement are increased. Workers are more inclined to give their best work when they believe that their time is valued.

4. High-cost savings

Reduced scheduling mistakes, extra expenses, and no-show rates are all outcomes of effective scheduling. Businesses making use of the top scheduling software for call centers solutions benefit greatly from these cost savings.

5. Enhances customer experiences

Agents with a timetable are less anxious and more equipped to respond to questions from customers, which improves customer relations and satisfaction levels. Scheduling software for call centers helps to ensure the correct agents are accessible when they're needed to provide excellent customer service.

6. Quick internal communication

Teams keep in sync and the scheduled call app runs well thanks to the capabilities of these scheduling software for call centers solutions that enable supervisors and agents to communicate instantaneously about essential updates or schedule modifications.

TOP-10 Call Center Scheduling Software Reviews

Businesses seek the greatest call center scheduling software to effectively oversee their employees and increase production. To keep your staff as organized as possible, we will examine the Top 10 scheduling software for call centers solutions in this study, paying particular attention to their primary features, benefits, and costs.

Shifton

Important characteristics:
  • Automated Scheduling: By automating the whole scheduling process, Shifton's platform lowers mistakes and frees up manager's time.
  • Employee Self-Service: By using a self-service portal, workers may view and switch shifts, which expedites communication.
  • Forecasting: Shifton platform's forecasting tools allow you to predict call volumes and staffing requirements.
  • Mobile Access: Utilizing mobile devices to access the platform guarantees that staff members may manage their schedules while on the road.
  • Real-Time Updates: Shifton offers up-to-date information on personnel availability and schedule modifications in real-time.
Advantages:
  • An easy-to-use UI with rapid onboarding.
  • Flexible scheduling alternatives to accommodate different industry needs.
  • Employee independence via self-service tools.
  • Customer support.
Cons:
  • Open API for any integration.
  • Adding and inviting up to 100 employees.
  • Different roles (administrator, manager, employee).
  • Automated schedules (unlimited).
  • Open shifts.
  • Shift swapping/transfer.
  • Overtime control.
  • Night hours configuration.
  • One project.
  • Mobile app.
  • API access.
Pricing: Offer a free edition, and provide a tailored price to larger teams.

RingCentral Contact Center

Important characteristics:
  • RingCentral Contact Center provides omnichannel assistance, which includes chat, email, voice, and social media help;
  • AI-Powered Analytics: Acquire a profound understanding of call volumes and labor productivity;
  • Skill-Based Routing: Use skill sets to automatically route calls to the most qualified agent;
  • Tools to Optimize Workforce: These include personnel planning and forecasting, both essential for contact center administration.
Advantages:
  • Robust connection to more RingCentral tools.
  • Sophisticated analytics tools enabling more insightful analysis.
  • Dependable omnichannel assistance to improve client support.
Cons:
  • Greater price in comparison to certain rivals;
  • Perhaps because of its intricacy, it will take longer to set up.
Cost: Get an estimate from RingCentral by contacting them; prices vary depending on team size and specifications.

Deputy

Important characteristics:
  • Drag-and-Drop Scheduling: Use a visual drag-and-drop interface to easily create personnel schedules;
  • Compliance tracking lowers legal risks by ensuring that schedules adhere to labor laws;
  • Task management: Using the scheduling software for call centers, assign tasks to employees directly;
  • Real-Time Attendance: Monitor worker attendance in real-time to avoid having too many or too few employees.
Advantages:
  • A simple-to-use interface enables rapid generation of schedules.
  • Robust instruments ensure compliance with scheduling legislation.
  • Payroll system integration.
Cons:
  • Restricted advanced features in schemes with lesser tiers.
  • It may be expensive when used by larger groups.
Pricing: The Scheduling plan has a monthly starting price of $2.50 per user; higher-tier subscriptions include more capabilities.

Talkdesk

Important characteristics:
  • Omnichannel Engagement: Offers customer service across a variety of channels, including SMS, chat, and phone calls.
  • AI Workforce software in call center management: Utilize AI-driven technologies effectively in staff forecasting and scheduling.
  • Call Monitoring and Reporting: Enables managers to create thorough reports and keep an eye on calls in real-time.
  • Cloud-Based Solution: Remotely accessible and readily expandable.
Advantages:
  • Strong automation and AI characteristics.
  • Team performance is improved by real-time call monitoring.
  • The scalable option is appropriate regardless of team size.
Cons:
  • Greater pricing range in comparison to certain rivals.
  • New users may face a rather severe learning curve.
Cost: Based on the number of agents and features requested, a custom price will be provided.

Shiftboard

Important characteristics:
  • Scheduling Process Automation: By automating the scheduling process, Shiftboard lowers the possibility of human mistakes.
  • Advanced Reporting: Offers thorough statistics on attendance and performance of employees.
  • Mobile App: Worker's cell phones may access schedules and updates.
  • Employees may switch shifts if their boss gives the go-ahead.
Advantages:
  • Scheduling that is automated minimizes administrative effort.
  • Employee mobile access increases flexibility.
  • Robust features designed to enhance workforce analysis reporting.
Cons:
  • Beginners may find it challenging to use the UI.
  • Few integrations with external parties.
Pricing: Enterprise-level pricing is offered, with a monthly starting price of $3 per user.

Assembled

Important characteristics:
  • Real-time schedule management: Modify schedules in real-time in response to personnel availability and call volume;
  • Tools for Forecasting: Make use of past data to predict personnel requirements and adjust schedules accordingly;
  • Time-Off Management: By allowing employees to request time off directly through the app, leave may be managed more easily;
  • Integrations: Easily interfaces with scheduling software for call centers and widely used CRM solutions.
Advantages:
  • Strong forecasting capabilities for precise scheduling.
  • Fast modifications are possible with real-time updates.
  • User interface that is easy to use and understand.
Cons:
  • Limited options regarding customization.
  • Reporting features could be enhanced.
Cost: Based on the contact center's size and requirements, a customized price is provided.

NICE Workforce Management

Important characteristics:
  • AI-Driven Forecasting: You may anticipate call volumes and staffing levels by using NICE's AI-based forecasting solutions.
  • Intraday Management: Using real-time analytics, modify personnel requirements throughout the day.
  • Multi-skill scheduling involves assigning workers to appropriate calls according to their skill set.
  • Comprehensive Reporting: Provides in-depth analysis of worker performance and call center efficiency.
Advantages:
  • Sophisticated AI-powered technologies providing precise staffing.
  • Efficiency is increased by real-time intraday management.
  • Robust analytics and reporting capabilities.
Cons:
  • Increased price as a result of premium features.
  • Needs training to fully utilize its features.
Cost: Custom costs; get in touch with NICE for a thorough estimate.

TixTime

Important characteristics:
  • Easy Scheduling: Provides a user-friendly interface that allows users to arrange the schedule of call center representatives.
  • Time tracking: Use the program to keep track of staff members' hours and attendance.
  • Shift Alerts: Workers are informed of impending shifts or modifications to their schedules.
  • Payroll interaction: Accurate compensation is ensured by a smooth interaction with payroll systems.
Advantages:
  • Features that are easy to use and efficient in scheduling.
  • Reasonably priced options suitable for small companies.
  • Simple payroll system integration.
Cons:
  • Lacks sophisticated tools related to staff management.
  • Restricted reporting and analytics capabilities.
Pricing: It is among the more reasonably priced solutions, with a monthly starting point of $2 per user.

Humanity

Important characteristics:
  • Humanity uses automated scheduling to save time and guarantee the right amount of employees.
  • Mobile Access: Using the mobile app, staff members may see and modify their schedules.
  • Labor Law Compliance: Verify that the schedules you create comply with all applicable local labor laws.
  • Employees can switch shifts with ease as long as their manager approves.
Advantages:
  • Incredibly automated to allow simple scheduling.
  • Employees have more freedom with mobile access.
  • Legal hazards are decreased by compliance features.
Cons:
  • Increased price on sophisticated plans.
  • There are not many possibilities regarding integration.
Pricing: The starting price is $3 per user per month, with additional fees applying to advanced functionality.

Zoho Voice

Important characteristics:
  • Omnichannel communication facilitates effective client interactions by supporting email, SMS, and phone calls;
  • Call Recording: Record calls for quality control and training reasons;
  • Real-Time Analytics: Provides call analytics in real-time so that team performance can be tracked and adjusted as necessary;
  • Adaptable API Integration: Combine Zoho Voice with the helpdesk and CRM programs you now use.
Advantages:
  • Strong support across all channels ensures smooth communication.
  • Real-time analytics provide immediate information.
  • Affordably priced options are available to small and medium-sized enterprises.
Cons:
  • Excludes a few cutting-edge features available in premium systems;
  • Restricted resources for workforce management.
Pricing: One of the most economical solutions, starting at $1 per user each month.

Compare Table Call Center Software

Making the right choice to achieve the finest scheduling software for call centers may be made easier with a clear comparison of the leading options. The comparative table that follows lists the salient characteristics, costs, and ease of use of several call center scheduling solutions.
SoftwareKey FeaturesPricingUser-Friendliness
ShiftonReal-time reporting, shifting, employee self-service, and AI-driven schedulingFree version, contact for pricing for large firmsA user-friendly interface that integrates seamlessly and enables smooth navigation.
RingCentral Contact CenterWorkforce management, automated call routing, and omnichannel supportContact for pricingRich in features, but considerable training is needed to fully utilize it.
DeputyPayroll integration, shift switching, automatic scheduling, and time trackingStarts at $2.50 per user/monthAn easy-to-use platform with adaptable features suitable for various business needs.
TalkdeskAdvanced analytics, omnichannel capabilities, and labor management driven by AIContact about pricingA contemporary interface that prioritizes customizability and simplicity of use
ShiftboardEmployee scheduling software call center, compliance tools, real-time reporting, and demand forecastingStarts at $3 per user/monthAdaptable and all-inclusive platform, while initial setup may be difficult
AssembledDemand forecasting, shift management, and optimal schedulingContact about pricingSimple to use, with adjustable scheduling capabilities, ideal for medium-sized enterprises
NICE Workforce ManagementMulti-channel support, real-time performance metrics, extensive scheduling capabilitiesContact about pricingHighly adaptable; however, individuals without a technical background will require additional training.
TixTimeFlexible shift assignments, performance metrics, and employee schedulingStarts at $2 per user/monthUser-friendly tools featuring an effective UI, ideal for small to medium-sized teams.
HumanityTimekeeping, real-time reporting, dynamic scheduling, and mobile accessStarts at $3 per user/monthExtremely user-friendly and mobile-optimized design allows for effortless control while on the go.
Zoho VoiceReal-time monitoring, omnichannel communication, and automated schedulingStarts at $1 per user/monthEasy to navigate and straightforward, particularly suitable for small and medium-sized enterprises.
 

How to Choose Call Center Scheduling Software

Selecting the best scheduling software for call centers for your contact center requires weighing several considerations, including features, affordability, convenience of use, and integrations. Let's examine the factors to consider regarding each of these elements.

1. Integrations

To guarantee that your scheduling software for call centers functions flawlessly with the other instruments in your contact center, integrations are essential. The entire effectiveness of the contact center is increased by its capacity to interface with analytics platforms, phone systems, chat software, and Customer Relationship Management (CRM) systems.Important scheduling software for call centers to look for include:
  • CRM programs such as Zoho CRM or Salesforce, facilitate smooth data transfer between staff schedules and customer contacts.
  • Tools that manage the workforce by linking timekeeping, performance evaluation, and scheduling.
  • Communication platforms, including chat programs and VoIP services, that integrate with scheduling to ensure staff members are accessible when needed.
  • HR and payroll systems that simplify the management of employee hours, requests for time off, and payments.
Data silos can cause operational disruptions and lower team effectiveness in your contact center if they are not properly integrated.

2. Features and functionalities

A call center schedule software solution needs to be jam-packed with features that aid in workflow optimization as well as schedule management. Typical elements that improve scheduling effectiveness are as follows:
  • Automated Scheduling: Assign shifts automatically per worker availability, skill levels, and call volume requirements.
  • Real-time Monitoring: Monitor and modify schedules in response to sudden increases in call traffic or personnel shortages.
  • Self-Service Options: Give staff members the ability to use the platform to manage their schedules, switch shifts, or seek time off.
  • Forecasting Tools: Make more accurate scheduling decisions and reduce instances of overstaffing or understaffing by using past data to forecast future call traffic;
  • Analytics and Reporting: Detailed reports that facilitate data-driven decision-making for supervisors by assisting them in understanding trends, performance measures, and staffing requirements.
Because of these qualities, workforce management can be approached more proactively, guaranteeing that agents are where they should be when they should be and that the scheduling system is adaptable enough to handle unforeseen spikes in demand.

3. Pricing

When selecting scheduling software for call centers, cost is an important consideration. To ensure you receive value from your purchase, it is essential to compare the price and the features offered.Typical call center scheduling tools provide:
  • Per user/month pricing: Many scheduling software for call centers solutions charge based on the number of users, which can be beneficial to small to mid-sized teams. TixTime software, ideal for small call centers, starts at $2 per user per month.
  • Unique pricing: Based on the scale of the contact center and the particular features needed, enterprise-level systems such as NICE Workforce Management and Talkdesk frequently provide unique pricing.
Take into account the following while assessing pricing:
  • Scalability: Can the scheduling software for call centers handle additional agents and sophisticated features as your company expands?
  • Costs associated with support and training: Certain platforms may charge extra for comprehensive onboarding or premium assistance;
  • Features: Does the program have several price tiers that, as you go up, unlock more features?
Making an educated choice requires weighing the potential of the scheduling software for call centers to increase operational efficiency against its cost.

4. User-friendliness

How simple it is for your staff to use and adjust to the scheduling software for call centers is determined by its user-friendliness. A simple design can increase adoption rates and general happiness, whereas a complicated interface may result in inefficiencies and even opposition from staff members.The following criteria should be used to assess user-friendliness:
  • Software should have an intuitive interface with easily navigable menus, straightforward dashboard designs, and readily available tools for scheduling, switching shifts, and producing reports;
  • Mobile Accessibility: Since many best contact center software representatives work from home, having a smartphone is essential for receiving real-time schedule changes. Mobile-friendly platforms are provided by tools such as Deputy and Humanity, which enable managers and staff to oversee schedules while on the go;
  • Minimal Learning Curve: Introducing new staff to a scheduling software for call centers solution should not take a long period, especially in big contact centers. The best platforms are ones that have helpful staff, help centers, and guided lessons.
Selecting an easy-to-use platform guarantees that managers and staff can rapidly adjust, cutting down on downtime and increasing output.

The Bottom Line On Call Center Scheduling Software

Scheduling software for call centers is necessary to maximize staff management in contact centers. Through the optimization of shift assignment, performance monitoring, and data analysis, these solutions support the maintenance of appropriately staffed and effectively operating software contact centers. They enable managers to deploy resources wisely, distributing workloads and lowering the possibility of either an overstaffing or understaffing situation, which might result in lower service quality or higher operating expenses.Advanced scheduling software for call centers also offers real-time reporting and analytics capabilities, which empower managers to make data-driven choices on resource allocation and staffing. These insights are useful for predicting future staffing needs, detecting peak hours, and analyzing call traffic patterns - all of which lead to increased customer satisfaction and productivity.It is important to take several important things into account when choosing the best scheduling software for call centers, such as integrations, price, usability, and necessary features. Integrations with other corporate systems, such as CRM and HR software, may considerably expand the usefulness of the scheduling tool, allowing for easy data exchange and enhancing overall productivity.In conclusion, carefully evaluating the unique requirements and goals of your company is essential to choosing the best scheduling software for call centers. Contact centers may optimize their workforce management procedures and increase customer happiness, performance, and operational efficiency by utilizing the appropriate technologies.
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Daria Olieshko

A personal blog created for those who are looking for proven practices.