Quick Overview
- 1#1: UKG Pro - AI-powered workforce management platform delivering precise labor forecasting and dynamic scheduling for enterprises.
- 2#2: WorkForce Software - Advanced workforce optimization suite with real-time labor forecasting and compliance-driven scheduling.
- 3#3: Dayforce - Unified HCM platform featuring predictive labor forecasting integrated with payroll and scheduling.
- 4#4: Legion - AI-driven demand forecasting and intelligent scheduling tool optimized for hourly workforces in retail and hospitality.
- 5#5: Workday - Cloud HCM solution with adaptive workforce planning and scenario-based labor forecasting capabilities.
- 6#6: Oracle HCM Cloud - Enterprise workforce management system providing analytics-driven labor forecasting and scheduling.
- 7#7: SAP SuccessFactors - Comprehensive workforce planning module enabling demand forecasting and skills-based labor allocation.
- 8#8: Anaplan - Connected planning platform supporting integrated workforce forecasting and scenario modeling.
- 9#9: 7shifts - Restaurant-specific scheduling software with sales-based labor forecasting and cost optimization.
- 10#10: When I Work - Employee scheduling app with demand forecasting to predict labor needs based on sales and trends.
We prioritized tools based on forecasting accuracy, integration capabilities, user experience, and value, ensuring the top 10 deliver reliable, versatile support for diverse labor management challenges.
Comparison Table
Labor forecasting software is vital for aligning workforce resources with demand, enhancing operational efficiency. This comparison table examines key tools like UKG Pro, WorkForce Software, Dayforce, Legion, Workday, and others, outlining features, strengths, and use cases to help identify the best fit for specific organizational needs.
| # | Tool | Category | Overall | Features | Ease of Use | Value |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | UKG Pro AI-powered workforce management platform delivering precise labor forecasting and dynamic scheduling for enterprises. | enterprise | 9.3/10 | 9.6/10 | 7.9/10 | 8.7/10 |
| 2 | WorkForce Software Advanced workforce optimization suite with real-time labor forecasting and compliance-driven scheduling. | enterprise | 9.2/10 | 9.5/10 | 8.4/10 | 8.7/10 |
| 3 | Dayforce Unified HCM platform featuring predictive labor forecasting integrated with payroll and scheduling. | enterprise | 8.7/10 | 9.2/10 | 7.8/10 | 8.0/10 |
| 4 | Legion AI-driven demand forecasting and intelligent scheduling tool optimized for hourly workforces in retail and hospitality. | specialized | 8.7/10 | 9.3/10 | 7.9/10 | 8.1/10 |
| 5 | Workday Cloud HCM solution with adaptive workforce planning and scenario-based labor forecasting capabilities. | enterprise | 8.1/10 | 8.7/10 | 7.2/10 | 7.5/10 |
| 6 | Oracle HCM Cloud Enterprise workforce management system providing analytics-driven labor forecasting and scheduling. | enterprise | 8.2/10 | 8.8/10 | 7.1/10 | 7.5/10 |
| 7 | SAP SuccessFactors Comprehensive workforce planning module enabling demand forecasting and skills-based labor allocation. | enterprise | 8.2/10 | 9.1/10 | 6.8/10 | 7.4/10 |
| 8 | Anaplan Connected planning platform supporting integrated workforce forecasting and scenario modeling. | enterprise | 8.1/10 | 9.2/10 | 6.4/10 | 7.5/10 |
| 9 | 7shifts Restaurant-specific scheduling software with sales-based labor forecasting and cost optimization. | specialized | 8.1/10 | 8.3/10 | 8.7/10 | 7.8/10 |
| 10 | When I Work Employee scheduling app with demand forecasting to predict labor needs based on sales and trends. | specialized | 7.5/10 | 7.2/10 | 8.6/10 | 8.0/10 |
AI-powered workforce management platform delivering precise labor forecasting and dynamic scheduling for enterprises.
Advanced workforce optimization suite with real-time labor forecasting and compliance-driven scheduling.
Unified HCM platform featuring predictive labor forecasting integrated with payroll and scheduling.
AI-driven demand forecasting and intelligent scheduling tool optimized for hourly workforces in retail and hospitality.
Cloud HCM solution with adaptive workforce planning and scenario-based labor forecasting capabilities.
Enterprise workforce management system providing analytics-driven labor forecasting and scheduling.
Comprehensive workforce planning module enabling demand forecasting and skills-based labor allocation.
Connected planning platform supporting integrated workforce forecasting and scenario modeling.
Restaurant-specific scheduling software with sales-based labor forecasting and cost optimization.
Employee scheduling app with demand forecasting to predict labor needs based on sales and trends.
UKG Pro
enterpriseAI-powered workforce management platform delivering precise labor forecasting and dynamic scheduling for enterprises.
AI-powered Predictive Workforce Optimization that dynamically forecasts labor needs using sales forecasts, historical data, and external variables like weather or events for superior accuracy.
UKG Pro is a leading enterprise-grade workforce management platform that specializes in labor forecasting through AI-driven predictive analytics, enabling organizations to accurately predict staffing needs based on historical trends, sales data, and external factors. It optimizes workforce scheduling, budgeting, and compliance while integrating seamlessly with broader HCM functionalities for end-to-end workforce management. Designed for complex, multi-location operations, it delivers real-time insights to reduce labor costs and improve operational efficiency.
Pros
- Advanced AI and machine learning for highly accurate labor demand forecasting
- Deep integration with HCM, payroll, and timekeeping modules
- Comprehensive analytics, reporting, and scenario planning tools
Cons
- High implementation costs and lengthy setup process
- Steep learning curve for non-technical users
- Pricing is premium and customized, less ideal for small businesses
Best For
Large enterprises in retail, healthcare, hospitality, or manufacturing with complex, variable staffing needs across multiple locations.
Pricing
Custom enterprise pricing, typically $25-60 per employee per month depending on modules, scale, and deployment (cloud or on-premise).
WorkForce Software
enterpriseAdvanced workforce optimization suite with real-time labor forecasting and compliance-driven scheduling.
Predictive Intelligence engine that dynamically forecasts labor demand using AI-driven analysis of real-time and historical data from diverse sources
WorkForce Software provides an enterprise-grade workforce management platform with robust labor forecasting capabilities, using advanced predictive analytics to forecast staffing needs based on historical trends, sales data, and external variables. It optimizes schedules, manages demand fluctuations, and integrates deeply with HRIS, ERP, and POS systems for real-time accuracy. Ideal for large-scale operations, it helps reduce overstaffing, labor costs, and compliance risks while improving productivity.
Pros
- Highly accurate multi-dimensional forecasting integrating sales, volume, and seasonality
- Scalable for global enterprises with multi-site support
- Seamless integrations with major ERP/HR systems like SAP and Oracle
Cons
- Complex setup and long implementation timelines
- Steep learning curve for non-technical users
- Premium pricing not suited for small businesses
Best For
Large enterprises in retail, healthcare, or hospitality requiring sophisticated, data-driven labor forecasting across multiple locations.
Pricing
Custom enterprise pricing via quote; typically starts at $50,000+ annually based on users and modules.
Dayforce
enterpriseUnified HCM platform featuring predictive labor forecasting integrated with payroll and scheduling.
AI-powered Dayforce Forecasting that dynamically predicts labor needs using sales, historical, and external data for precise optimization
Dayforce is a comprehensive cloud-based HCM platform from Ceridian that includes advanced workforce management capabilities, with a strong focus on labor forecasting. It uses AI and machine learning to predict labor demand by analyzing historical trends, sales data, weather, and other variables, enabling optimized scheduling and cost control. The tool integrates seamlessly with payroll, time tracking, and HR modules for end-to-end workforce visibility.
Pros
- AI-driven predictive forecasting with multi-variable inputs
- Deep integration with full HCM suite including payroll
- Scalable for large enterprises with real-time analytics
Cons
- High implementation complexity and time
- Premium pricing not ideal for small businesses
- Steep learning curve for non-enterprise users
Best For
Large enterprises and multi-location businesses needing integrated HCM with robust labor forecasting.
Pricing
Custom enterprise pricing, typically $10-25 per employee per month depending on modules and scale.
Legion
specializedAI-driven demand forecasting and intelligent scheduling tool optimized for hourly workforces in retail and hospitality.
Patented XO AI engine that delivers 95%+ forecast accuracy by continuously learning from proprietary datasets across millions of labor hours
Legion (legion.co) is an AI-powered workforce management platform specializing in labor forecasting, scheduling, and optimization for retail, hospitality, and service industries. It uses machine learning algorithms to analyze historical sales, weather, events, and other variables for highly accurate demand predictions. The software automates shift planning, reduces overstaffing, and integrates seamlessly with POS systems to drive operational efficiency.
Pros
- Exceptionally accurate AI-driven forecasting with multi-variable inputs like weather and promotions
- Comprehensive integration with POS, HRIS, and time-tracking systems
- Real-time optimization and scenario planning for dynamic labor adjustments
Cons
- High implementation costs and complexity for smaller businesses
- Steep learning curve due to advanced enterprise features
- Custom pricing lacks transparency for budgeting
Best For
Large-scale retail and hospitality chains with complex, variable demand needing enterprise-grade AI forecasting.
Pricing
Custom quote-based pricing; typically $5-15 per employee/month for enterprise plans, with minimums for multi-location deployments.
Workday
enterpriseCloud HCM solution with adaptive workforce planning and scenario-based labor forecasting capabilities.
Prism Analytics for unified, AI-enhanced workforce demand forecasting across siloed data sources
Workday is a comprehensive cloud-based HCM platform with robust labor forecasting capabilities through its Workforce Planning and Adaptive Planning modules. It leverages historical data, AI-driven insights, and scenario modeling to predict staffing needs, optimize schedules, and align labor supply with business demand. Ideal for enterprises, it integrates seamlessly with HR, finance, and operations data for accurate, real-time forecasts.
Pros
- Deep integration with HR, finance, and operational data for holistic forecasting
- AI-powered predictive analytics and scenario planning
- Scalable for large enterprises with real-time insights
Cons
- Steep learning curve and complex implementation
- High cost unsuitable for SMBs
- Less specialized for shift-based or hourly labor industries
Best For
Large enterprises seeking integrated HCM-driven labor forecasting within a broader ERP ecosystem.
Pricing
Custom enterprise subscription pricing, typically $100+ per employee/year with modular add-ons; quote-based.
Oracle HCM Cloud
enterpriseEnterprise workforce management system providing analytics-driven labor forecasting and scheduling.
AI-powered predictive workforce analytics that dynamically forecast labor demand across multiple variables like skills, absences, and business events
Oracle HCM Cloud is a comprehensive human capital management platform that includes robust labor forecasting capabilities through its Workforce Management and Analytics modules. It leverages AI and machine learning to predict staffing needs, optimize schedules, and forecast labor demand based on historical data, trends, and business variables. Designed for enterprise-scale operations, it integrates seamlessly with other HCM functions like payroll and talent management for holistic workforce planning.
Pros
- Advanced AI-driven forecasting with high accuracy for complex enterprise scenarios
- Seamless integration with full HCM suite and Oracle ecosystem
- Scalable for global, large-scale deployments with real-time analytics
Cons
- Steep learning curve and complex initial setup requiring expert configuration
- High cost unsuitable for small to mid-sized businesses
- Overkill for organizations needing only standalone labor forecasting tools
Best For
Large enterprises with complex, global workforce needs seeking integrated HCM and advanced predictive labor forecasting.
Pricing
Custom enterprise pricing, typically $100+ per employee per month for full HCM suite including forecasting features; volume discounts apply.
SAP SuccessFactors
enterpriseComprehensive workforce planning module enabling demand forecasting and skills-based labor allocation.
AI-powered Continuous Workforce Planning with real-time scenario simulations
SAP SuccessFactors is a comprehensive cloud-based HR suite with robust Workforce Analytics and Planning modules tailored for labor forecasting. It leverages AI and machine learning to predict staffing demands, identify skill gaps, and model future workforce scenarios based on historical data and business drivers. Ideal for enterprises, it integrates seamlessly with SAP's ERP systems for holistic planning across recruitment, retention, and deployment.
Pros
- Advanced AI-driven predictive analytics for accurate demand and supply forecasting
- Seamless integration with SAP ecosystem and third-party tools
- Comprehensive scenario planning and what-if modeling for strategic decisions
Cons
- Steep learning curve and complex implementation requiring expert consultants
- High cost prohibitive for SMBs
- Interface feels dated compared to nimbler SaaS competitors
Best For
Large enterprises with complex, global workforces already invested in the SAP ecosystem needing integrated HR and labor forecasting.
Pricing
Custom enterprise pricing, typically $10-25 per employee/month for core HR plus add-ons for analytics; annual contracts with implementation fees often exceeding $100K.
Anaplan
enterpriseConnected planning platform supporting integrated workforce forecasting and scenario modeling.
Hyperblock technology for unlimited hierarchies and instant recalculation of massive labor models in real-time
Anaplan is a cloud-based connected planning platform that excels in multi-dimensional modeling for enterprise-wide forecasting, including labor demand prediction by integrating sales, operations, and historical data. It enables detailed workforce planning, scenario analysis for staffing optimization, shift scheduling, and cost forecasting. While versatile across business functions, it supports labor forecasting through customizable models that handle complex variables like skills, locations, and seasonality.
Pros
- Powerful multi-dimensional modeling for complex labor scenarios and what-if analysis
- Seamless integration with ERP, HRIS, and other enterprise systems
- Scalable for global enterprises with real-time collaboration
Cons
- Steep learning curve requiring skilled planners or consultants
- High implementation and customization costs
- Interface can feel overwhelming for non-technical users
Best For
Large enterprises with complex, cross-functional planning needs that require integrated labor forecasting alongside finance and supply chain.
Pricing
Custom quote-based pricing, typically starting at $50,000+ annually for mid-sized deployments, scaling with users, data volume, and modules.
7shifts
specializedRestaurant-specific scheduling software with sales-based labor forecasting and cost optimization.
Deep integration with 100+ POS systems for precise, real-time sales-based labor forecasting
7shifts is a restaurant-focused workforce management platform that includes labor forecasting capabilities to predict sales trends and optimal staffing levels. It integrates with numerous POS systems to pull historical sales data, enabling managers to forecast labor needs accurately and build cost-effective schedules. The tool emphasizes real-time adjustments and labor cost projections to help control expenses in the hospitality industry.
Pros
- Strong POS integrations for data-driven sales forecasting
- Intuitive interface for quick forecast creation and schedule optimization
- Effective at reducing labor costs and overtime through predictive insights
Cons
- Forecasting features are somewhat basic compared to dedicated analytics tools
- Pricing scales quickly for multi-location operations
- Limited customization options outside restaurant-specific use cases
Best For
Multi-location restaurant chains needing integrated labor forecasting with scheduling to optimize costs.
Pricing
Starts at $29.99 per location/month (Essential), $49.99 (Pro), with custom Enterprise pricing.
When I Work
specializedEmployee scheduling app with demand forecasting to predict labor needs based on sales and trends.
Sales forecast integration that automatically predicts labor demand from POS data
When I Work is an employee scheduling and workforce management platform that includes labor forecasting tools to predict staffing needs based on historical data, sales forecasts, and trends. It enables managers to build demand forecasts, optimize shift schedules, and control labor costs through intuitive dashboards. The software integrates with POS systems and offers mobile accessibility for real-time adjustments.
Pros
- User-friendly interface with drag-and-drop scheduling
- Strong mobile app for employees and managers
- Integrations with popular POS and payroll systems
Cons
- Labor forecasting lacks advanced AI-driven predictions
- Limited customization for complex forecasting models
- Reporting analytics could be more robust for large enterprises
Best For
Small to medium-sized businesses needing straightforward scheduling with basic labor forecasting capabilities.
Pricing
Free for up to 75 schedules/month; Standard plan at $2/active user/month; Advanced at $3.50/active user/month (billed annually).
Conclusion
The top labor forecasting tools deliver tailored solutions, with UKG Pro leading as the top choice, boasting AI-driven precision and enterprise-grade capabilities. WorkForce Software stands out for real-time optimization and compliance, while Dayforce impresses through its integrated HCM and predictive forecasting—each offering distinct strengths to suit varied operational needs. Together, they underscore the evolving tools available to enhance labor efficiency.
Explore the leading option, UKG Pro, to start leveraging its advanced workforce forecasting and scheduling capabilities for your unique needs.
Tools Reviewed
All tools were independently evaluated for this comparison