Quick Overview
- 1#1: Aladtec - Web-based staff scheduling software tailored for fire departments and EMS to manage shifts, trades, overtime, and compliance seamlessly.
- 2#2: CrewSense - Mobile-first scheduling platform designed specifically for firefighters to handle shift bidding, swaps, and station staffing efficiently.
- 3#3: First Due - Modern fire department staffing software that optimizes schedules, predicts staffing needs, and integrates with incident data.
- 4#4: Vector Scheduler - Comprehensive scheduling solution for fire and EMS agencies featuring auto-scheduling, certification tracking, and real-time updates.
- 5#5: Resource Scheduler - Robust scheduling tool for public safety including fire departments, with drag-and-drop shifts, reporting, and minimum staffing rules.
- 6#6: Firehouse Software - Integrated fire department management software with advanced personnel scheduling, payroll integration, and regulatory compliance features.
- 7#7: RescueNet Scheduling - Enterprise scheduling module for EMS and fire services that automates shift management and integrates with CAD and billing systems.
- 8#8: ImageTrend Schedule - Cloud-based scheduling within the ImageTrend suite for fire and EMS, supporting shift trades, qualifications, and analytics.
- 9#9: ESO Scheduling - Scheduling software for fire and EMS operations that handles complex rotations, availability, and workforce forecasting.
- 10#10: When I Work - Flexible employee scheduling app used by fire departments for shift creation, swap requests, and mobile notifications.
Tools were evaluated based on alignment with fire service needs, feature depth (including auto-scheduling, compliance, and mobile access), user-friendliness, and overall value, ensuring a balanced selection for diverse agency sizes and workflows.
Comparison Table
Efficient scheduling is vital for fire departments to ensure rapid response, proper staff allocation, and smooth operations. This comparison table examines leading tools like Aladtec, CrewSense, First Due, Vector Scheduler, Resource Scheduler, and more, outlining their key features, advantages, and compatibility with varying department needs. Readers will discover actionable insights to select the software that optimizes scheduling, enhances coordination, and supports effective decision-making.
| # | Tool | Category | Overall | Features | Ease of Use | Value |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Aladtec Web-based staff scheduling software tailored for fire departments and EMS to manage shifts, trades, overtime, and compliance seamlessly. | specialized | 9.6/10 | 9.8/10 | 9.2/10 | 9.4/10 |
| 2 | CrewSense Mobile-first scheduling platform designed specifically for firefighters to handle shift bidding, swaps, and station staffing efficiently. | specialized | 9.2/10 | 9.5/10 | 8.9/10 | 8.6/10 |
| 3 | First Due Modern fire department staffing software that optimizes schedules, predicts staffing needs, and integrates with incident data. | specialized | 8.7/10 | 9.2/10 | 8.4/10 | 8.1/10 |
| 4 | Vector Scheduler Comprehensive scheduling solution for fire and EMS agencies featuring auto-scheduling, certification tracking, and real-time updates. | specialized | 8.2/10 | 8.0/10 | 8.5/10 | 8.1/10 |
| 5 | Resource Scheduler Robust scheduling tool for public safety including fire departments, with drag-and-drop shifts, reporting, and minimum staffing rules. | specialized | 7.6/10 | 7.4/10 | 8.2/10 | 7.8/10 |
| 6 | Firehouse Software Integrated fire department management software with advanced personnel scheduling, payroll integration, and regulatory compliance features. | enterprise | 8.3/10 | 9.2/10 | 7.4/10 | 7.9/10 |
| 7 | RescueNet Scheduling Enterprise scheduling module for EMS and fire services that automates shift management and integrates with CAD and billing systems. | enterprise | 7.4/10 | 8.2/10 | 6.8/10 | 7.0/10 |
| 8 | ImageTrend Schedule Cloud-based scheduling within the ImageTrend suite for fire and EMS, supporting shift trades, qualifications, and analytics. | enterprise | 7.8/10 | 8.2/10 | 7.4/10 | 7.5/10 |
| 9 | ESO Scheduling Scheduling software for fire and EMS operations that handles complex rotations, availability, and workforce forecasting. | enterprise | 8.3/10 | 8.7/10 | 8.4/10 | 7.9/10 |
| 10 | When I Work Flexible employee scheduling app used by fire departments for shift creation, swap requests, and mobile notifications. | enterprise | 6.8/10 | 6.0/10 | 8.5/10 | 7.5/10 |
Web-based staff scheduling software tailored for fire departments and EMS to manage shifts, trades, overtime, and compliance seamlessly.
Mobile-first scheduling platform designed specifically for firefighters to handle shift bidding, swaps, and station staffing efficiently.
Modern fire department staffing software that optimizes schedules, predicts staffing needs, and integrates with incident data.
Comprehensive scheduling solution for fire and EMS agencies featuring auto-scheduling, certification tracking, and real-time updates.
Robust scheduling tool for public safety including fire departments, with drag-and-drop shifts, reporting, and minimum staffing rules.
Integrated fire department management software with advanced personnel scheduling, payroll integration, and regulatory compliance features.
Enterprise scheduling module for EMS and fire services that automates shift management and integrates with CAD and billing systems.
Cloud-based scheduling within the ImageTrend suite for fire and EMS, supporting shift trades, qualifications, and analytics.
Scheduling software for fire and EMS operations that handles complex rotations, availability, and workforce forecasting.
Flexible employee scheduling app used by fire departments for shift creation, swap requests, and mobile notifications.
Aladtec
specializedWeb-based staff scheduling software tailored for fire departments and EMS to manage shifts, trades, overtime, and compliance seamlessly.
Advanced shift trade board with real-time approvals and notifications, reducing administrative burden in dynamic fire service environments
Aladtec is a robust web-based workforce management software tailored for public safety agencies, including fire departments, enabling efficient scheduling, shift trades, and overtime management. It features real-time updates, mobile accessibility, and automated notifications to ensure 24/7 coverage without manual spreadsheets. The platform also tracks certifications, handles FLSA compliance, and provides detailed reporting for operational insights.
Pros
- Highly customizable scheduling rules with auto-fill and rotation support ideal for 24/7 fire operations
- Seamless mobile app for shift trades, availability checks, and real-time alerts
- Comprehensive compliance tools for FLSA, certifications, and auditing
Cons
- Initial setup requires configuration time for complex shift patterns
- Pricing scales with users, potentially higher for small volunteer departments
- Limited native integrations with some niche payroll or HR systems
Best For
Mid-to-large fire departments and EMS agencies needing scalable, mobile-first scheduling for rotating shifts and high-stakes coverage.
Pricing
Custom quotes based on users and features; typically $25-50 per employee/month with no long-term contracts.
CrewSense
specializedMobile-first scheduling platform designed specifically for firefighters to handle shift bidding, swaps, and station staffing efficiently.
Intelligent shift exchange board enabling peer-to-peer trading while maintaining coverage and overtime rules
CrewSense is a cloud-based scheduling platform specifically designed for fire departments, EMS, and public safety agencies to manage shifts, staffing, and compliance. It features drag-and-drop scheduling, intelligent auto-fill algorithms that respect fire-specific rules like 24/48 rotations, and real-time availability tracking. The software also integrates time clocks, payroll, and mobile apps for seamless on-the-go management and employee self-service.
Pros
- Highly specialized for fire/EMS with support for Kelly schedules and union rules
- Robust mobile app for shift swaps, time punches, and notifications
- Strong automation and integrations with payroll and time systems
Cons
- Pricing can be steep for very small volunteer departments
- Initial setup and customization may require admin training
- Limited free trial or demo depth without sales contact
Best For
Medium to large fire departments needing tailored scheduling with mobile accessibility and compliance tools.
Pricing
Custom quotes based on department size; typically $5-10 per user/month or $400+ starting for small teams, with enterprise scaling.
First Due
specializedModern fire department staffing software that optimizes schedules, predicts staffing needs, and integrates with incident data.
Intelligent auto-scheduling engine that factors in certifications, preferences, and fatigue rules for optimal rosters
First Due is a comprehensive fire department management platform with robust scheduling capabilities, enabling automated shift creation, drag-and-drop roster adjustments, and real-time availability tracking for firefighters. It integrates scheduling with personnel records, certifications, and time-off management to ensure compliance and operational efficiency. The software also offers mobile apps for on-the-go updates and notifications, making it suitable for modern fire departments handling complex shift patterns.
Pros
- Advanced automation for shift bidding, auto-fill, and overtime distribution reduces manual work
- Seamless mobile access and real-time notifications keep crews informed
- Strong integration with NFIRS reporting and certification tracking
Cons
- Pricing can be high for smaller volunteer departments
- Steeper learning curve for advanced customization
- Limited third-party integrations compared to some competitors
Best For
Mid-to-large career fire departments needing an all-in-one platform with powerful scheduling tied to broader operations.
Pricing
Custom pricing starting at around $250/month for small departments, scaling up based on users and features (typically $5-10 per firefighter/month).
Vector Scheduler
specializedComprehensive scheduling solution for fire and EMS agencies featuring auto-scheduling, certification tracking, and real-time updates.
Vector-based optimization engine that balances shift equity and minimizes overtime costs automatically
Vector Scheduler is a cloud-based workforce management tool designed for shift-based operations, including fire departments, offering drag-and-drop scheduling, automated shift filling, and real-time updates. It supports rotating schedules, certification tracking, and minimum staffing requirements to ensure operational readiness. The platform integrates mobile access for firefighters to view shifts, swap requests, and availability, streamlining department coordination.
Pros
- Intuitive drag-and-drop interface for quick schedule adjustments
- Strong mobile app for staff self-service and swap approvals
- Automated compliance checks for overtime and certifications
Cons
- Limited native integrations with fire-specific RMS or payroll systems
- Advanced customization requires training
- Pricing scales less favorably for very small volunteer departments
Best For
Mid-sized career fire departments needing flexible, mobile-friendly scheduling without heavy customization.
Pricing
Custom quotes starting at around $6-12 per user/month, with tiers based on department size and features.
Resource Scheduler
specializedRobust scheduling tool for public safety including fire departments, with drag-and-drop shifts, reporting, and minimum staffing rules.
Automated certification and qualification tracking with expiration alerts, purpose-built for firefighter compliance
Resource Scheduler from officerreports.com is a web-based scheduling platform tailored for fire departments and EMS agencies, enabling efficient shift planning, overtime management, and staff tracking. It supports drag-and-drop scheduling, qualification/certification monitoring, and mobile access for real-time updates and shift trades. Ideal for public safety teams, it ensures compliance with rotating schedules like 24/48 or Kelly shifts while minimizing administrative overhead.
Pros
- Intuitive drag-and-drop interface simplifies schedule creation
- Mobile app supports shift swaps and notifications on the go
- Strong support for fire-specific schedules and certification tracking
Cons
- Limited third-party integrations compared to enterprise tools
- Advanced reporting and analytics lack depth
- No AI-driven auto-scheduling or predictive staffing features
Best For
Small to mid-sized fire departments seeking a straightforward, affordable tool for basic shift management and compliance tracking.
Pricing
Subscription starts at ~$99/month for departments up to 50 members, scales with user count and features.
Firehouse Software
enterpriseIntegrated fire department management software with advanced personnel scheduling, payroll integration, and regulatory compliance features.
Advanced auto-scheduling engine with built-in support for fire shift bidding, swaps, and Kelly-style rotations
Firehouse Software is a comprehensive management platform tailored for fire departments, with its scheduling module enabling efficient handling of complex shift patterns like 24/48 rotations, trade requests, and overtime tracking. It integrates scheduling with personnel records, training management, and inventory control for a holistic operational view. The software supports both desktop and web access, making it suitable for multi-station departments.
Pros
- Highly customizable scheduling for fire-specific shift patterns and rotations
- Seamless integration with other fire department modules like training and payroll
- Proven reliability with long-term users in mid-to-large departments
Cons
- Steep learning curve due to extensive features
- Pricing can be high for smaller departments
- Interface feels dated compared to modern SaaS competitors
Best For
Mid-sized to large fire departments requiring robust, integrated scheduling within a full departmental management system.
Pricing
Custom quotes based on department size and modules; typically $400-$1,500/month for scheduling-focused plans with annual contracts.
RescueNet Scheduling
enterpriseEnterprise scheduling module for EMS and fire services that automates shift management and integrates with CAD and billing systems.
Seamless integration with ZOLL RescueNet CAD and billing for real-time data synchronization
RescueNet Scheduling from ZOLL Data Systems is a specialized crew scheduling platform tailored for fire departments and EMS agencies, automating shift planning, personnel assignments, and timekeeping. It ensures compliance with FLSA regulations, manages overtime, and supports complex rotating schedules common in emergency services. The software integrates with ZOLL's broader RescueNet suite, including CAD and billing systems, for streamlined operations.
Pros
- Strong integration with ZOLL's public safety ecosystem
- Advanced FLSA compliance and overtime management
- Robust handling of complex shift patterns and auto-staffing
Cons
- Steep learning curve for new users
- Interface feels dated compared to modern SaaS alternatives
- Pricing can be prohibitive for smaller departments
Best For
Mid-to-large fire departments already invested in ZOLL products that need enterprise-grade scheduling with deep system integrations.
Pricing
Custom enterprise pricing; typically starts at $5,000+ annually based on agency size, with quotes required.
ImageTrend Schedule
enterpriseCloud-based scheduling within the ImageTrend suite for fire and EMS, supporting shift trades, qualifications, and analytics.
Seamless bidirectional integration with ImageTrend Elite for automatic schedule adjustments based on incident response data
ImageTrend Schedule is a robust scheduling platform tailored for fire departments and EMS agencies, enabling efficient shift planning, time-off management, and overtime tracking. It integrates seamlessly with ImageTrend's broader suite of public safety software, including incident reporting and patient care records, for unified data management. The tool supports drag-and-drop scheduling, shift bidding, and compliance with FLSA regulations, making it suitable for complex departmental operations.
Pros
- Strong integration with ImageTrend's ecosystem for incident data and reporting
- Advanced compliance tools for overtime and labor laws
- Mobile accessibility for real-time shift updates
Cons
- Steep learning curve for non-technical users
- Pricing can be high for smaller departments
- Limited third-party integrations outside ImageTrend products
Best For
Mid-to-large fire departments already using ImageTrend's platform who need integrated scheduling with incident management.
Pricing
Custom quote-based pricing, typically subscription model starting at $5-10 per user/month for basic plans, with enterprise tiers higher based on department size.
ESO Scheduling
enterpriseScheduling software for fire and EMS operations that handles complex rotations, availability, and workforce forecasting.
AI-powered scheduling optimizer that predicts staffing gaps and minimizes overtime while adhering to fatigue regulations
ESO Scheduling is a cloud-based solution designed specifically for fire departments and EMS agencies to streamline shift planning and workforce management. It automates schedule creation based on department rules, tracks employee certifications and availability, and handles overtime distribution equitably. The software integrates tightly with ESO's ecosystem, including ePCR and RMS, providing real-time visibility into staffing needs aligned with incident response.
Pros
- Deep integration with ESO's public safety tools for unified operations
- Automated compliance with fire service labor rules and certification tracking
- Mobile app enabling self-service shift swaps and real-time notifications
Cons
- Pricing can be steep for small volunteer or rural departments
- Full potential requires adoption of other ESO modules
- Advanced customization options are somewhat limited
Best For
Mid-sized to large fire departments already invested in the ESO platform seeking scalable, integrated scheduling.
Pricing
Custom quote-based pricing per agency size and users; typically subscription model starting around $50-100/user/month.
When I Work
enterpriseFlexible employee scheduling app used by fire departments for shift creation, swap requests, and mobile notifications.
Otto AI assistant for automated schedule predictions and conflict resolution
When I Work is a cloud-based employee scheduling platform tailored for shift-based workforces, enabling managers to create schedules, track availability, facilitate shift trades, and communicate via mobile app. For fire departments, it supports basic 24/7 shift planning and overtime alerts but falls short on specialized needs like certification tracking or emergency response integrations. Overall, it's a general-purpose tool that can handle routine scheduling for smaller teams but requires workarounds for public safety complexities.
Pros
- User-friendly mobile app for shift swaps and notifications on the go
- Automated scheduling and availability-based filling reduces manual work
- Affordable pricing with strong communication tools like chat and announcements
Cons
- No built-in support for fire-specific needs like certification management or apparatus assignments
- Limited integrations with CAD, RMS, or public safety payroll systems
- Scalability challenges for large departments with complex rotations
Best For
Small to mid-sized fire departments needing simple, mobile-friendly shift scheduling without advanced emergency service features.
Pricing
Free for basic use (up to 75 schedules/month); paid plans start at $2/user/month (Essential, billed annually) up to $4+/user/month (Pro/Enterprise with advanced features).
Conclusion
Effective scheduling is critical for fire departments, and the reviewed tools streamline operations. Aladtec leads as the top choice, offering seamless management of shifts, trades, overtime, and compliance, while CrewSense and First Due stand out as strong alternatives—CrewSense for mobile efficiency and First Due for predictive optimization. With solutions tailored to various needs, these tools enhance operational effectiveness.
Take the first step toward smoother scheduling—explore Aladtec, the top-ranked tool, and experience its transformative benefits.
Tools Reviewed
All tools were independently evaluated for this comparison