Quick Overview
- 1#1: Connecteam - Connecteam is an all-in-one mobile-first employee management platform with advanced scheduling, rostering, and communication tools for teams.
- 2#2: Deputy - Deputy provides comprehensive workforce management including employee rostering, shift scheduling, forecasting, and time tracking.
- 3#3: When I Work - When I Work offers intuitive employee scheduling software with shift trades, availability management, and team messaging.
- 4#4: Homebase - Homebase delivers free online employee scheduling, time tracking, and communication for small to medium businesses.
- 5#5: Sling - Sling is a free employee scheduling app that enables roster creation, labor cost tracking, and staff communication.
- 6#6: 7shifts - 7shifts specializes in restaurant employee rostering, labor management, and tip tracking for hospitality teams.
- 7#7: ZoomShift - ZoomShift provides cloud-based employee scheduling, time attendance, and PTO management for distributed teams.
- 8#8: Workforce.com - Workforce.com offers integrated employee rostering, timesheets, and performance tools for operational efficiency.
- 9#9: Agendrix - Agendrix simplifies employee scheduling with drag-and-drop rosters, notifications, and time clock integration.
- 10#10: Findmyshift - Findmyshift delivers online staff rostering software for creating schedules, managing shifts, and tracking hours.
These tools were selected based on comprehensive evaluation of features, user-friendliness, reliability, and value, ensuring they meet the diverse needs of businesses across industries.
Comparison Table
This comparison table explores popular online employee rostering software tools, including Connecteam, Deputy, When I Work, Homebase, Sling, and more, to help businesses find the right solution for their staffing needs. Readers will discover key features, pricing structures, and standout benefits, enabling them to streamline scheduling and enhance team coordination.
| # | Tool | Category | Overall | Features | Ease of Use | Value |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Connecteam Connecteam is an all-in-one mobile-first employee management platform with advanced scheduling, rostering, and communication tools for teams. | enterprise | 9.5/10 | 9.7/10 | 9.4/10 | 9.2/10 |
| 2 | Deputy Deputy provides comprehensive workforce management including employee rostering, shift scheduling, forecasting, and time tracking. | enterprise | 9.1/10 | 9.4/10 | 8.9/10 | 8.7/10 |
| 3 | When I Work When I Work offers intuitive employee scheduling software with shift trades, availability management, and team messaging. | specialized | 8.7/10 | 9.0/10 | 8.8/10 | 8.2/10 |
| 4 | Homebase Homebase delivers free online employee scheduling, time tracking, and communication for small to medium businesses. | specialized | 8.5/10 | 8.2/10 | 9.2/10 | 9.5/10 |
| 5 | Sling Sling is a free employee scheduling app that enables roster creation, labor cost tracking, and staff communication. | specialized | 8.1/10 | 7.8/10 | 8.7/10 | 9.2/10 |
| 6 | 7shifts 7shifts specializes in restaurant employee rostering, labor management, and tip tracking for hospitality teams. | specialized | 8.6/10 | 9.1/10 | 8.7/10 | 8.2/10 |
| 7 | ZoomShift ZoomShift provides cloud-based employee scheduling, time attendance, and PTO management for distributed teams. | specialized | 8.1/10 | 7.9/10 | 8.5/10 | 8.4/10 |
| 8 | Workforce.com Workforce.com offers integrated employee rostering, timesheets, and performance tools for operational efficiency. | enterprise | 8.4/10 | 8.7/10 | 8.2/10 | 8.0/10 |
| 9 | Agendrix Agendrix simplifies employee scheduling with drag-and-drop rosters, notifications, and time clock integration. | specialized | 8.6/10 | 8.4/10 | 9.3/10 | 8.9/10 |
| 10 | Findmyshift Findmyshift delivers online staff rostering software for creating schedules, managing shifts, and tracking hours. | specialized | 8.2/10 | 8.0/10 | 8.5/10 | 9.0/10 |
Connecteam is an all-in-one mobile-first employee management platform with advanced scheduling, rostering, and communication tools for teams.
Deputy provides comprehensive workforce management including employee rostering, shift scheduling, forecasting, and time tracking.
When I Work offers intuitive employee scheduling software with shift trades, availability management, and team messaging.
Homebase delivers free online employee scheduling, time tracking, and communication for small to medium businesses.
Sling is a free employee scheduling app that enables roster creation, labor cost tracking, and staff communication.
7shifts specializes in restaurant employee rostering, labor management, and tip tracking for hospitality teams.
ZoomShift provides cloud-based employee scheduling, time attendance, and PTO management for distributed teams.
Workforce.com offers integrated employee rostering, timesheets, and performance tools for operational efficiency.
Agendrix simplifies employee scheduling with drag-and-drop rosters, notifications, and time clock integration.
Findmyshift delivers online staff rostering software for creating schedules, managing shifts, and tracking hours.
Connecteam
enterpriseConnecteam is an all-in-one mobile-first employee management platform with advanced scheduling, rostering, and communication tools for teams.
Smart Scheduler uses AI to automatically create optimized schedules based on employee availability, skills, labor costs, and compliance rules.
Connecteam is a comprehensive mobile-first employee management platform with robust online rostering capabilities, allowing managers to create, assign, and manage shifts via an intuitive drag-and-drop scheduler. It supports features like availability-based auto-scheduling, overtime alerts, and real-time notifications to ensure smooth workforce coordination. Beyond rostering, it integrates time tracking, communication, and task management, making it ideal for frontline and deskless teams.
Pros
- Intuitive drag-and-drop scheduling with AI-powered Smart Scheduler for optimized shift assignments
- Real-time updates, notifications, and mobile accessibility for employees and managers
- Seamless integration with time tracking, GPS clock-in, and team communication tools
Cons
- Advanced AI scheduling and unlimited users locked behind higher pricing tiers
- Can feel overwhelming for users needing only basic rostering without the full suite
- Desktop interface is functional but less polished than the mobile app
Best For
Managers of frontline, deskless, or hourly workforces seeking an all-in-one mobile solution for rostering, communication, and operations.
Pricing
Free for up to 10 users; paid plans start at $29/month (Basic for 30 users), $49/month (Advanced), $99/month (Expert), with per-user scaling for larger teams and custom Enterprise options.
Deputy
enterpriseDeputy provides comprehensive workforce management including employee rostering, shift scheduling, forecasting, and time tracking.
Intelligent Auto-Scheduling that optimizes shifts based on forecasted demand, employee availability, skills, and labor costs to minimize overtime.
Deputy is a comprehensive cloud-based workforce management platform specializing in employee rostering, time tracking, and communication for shift-based businesses. It enables managers to create optimized schedules using drag-and-drop tools, automate shift assignments based on availability and labor costs, and handle shift swaps via employee self-service. The software also includes features like real-time notifications, compliance monitoring, and integrations with payroll and POS systems, making it ideal for industries such as retail, hospitality, and healthcare.
Pros
- Intuitive drag-and-drop scheduling with auto-optimization for labor costs and skills
- Robust mobile app for employee self-rostering, swaps, and timesheets
- Extensive integrations with 100+ apps including payroll and POS systems
Cons
- Pricing scales with active users, which can add up for large teams
- Advanced forecasting and compliance features locked behind higher plans
- Initial setup may require time for complex multi-location configurations
Best For
Medium to large shift-based businesses in retail, hospitality, or healthcare needing scalable rostering with compliance and forecasting tools.
Pricing
Starts at $3.50 per active user/month (Essential plan, billed annually); higher tiers like Plus ($4.50) and Enterprise (custom) unlock more features.
When I Work
specializedWhen I Work offers intuitive employee scheduling software with shift trades, availability management, and team messaging.
OpenShifts with employee self-scheduling and auto-notifications for shift coverage
When I Work is a cloud-based employee scheduling platform tailored for shift-based businesses, enabling managers to create, publish, and manage rosters efficiently. It includes features like shift swapping, time-off requests, time clock integration, and team messaging to streamline workforce coordination. The software supports mobile access for employees to view schedules, claim open shifts, and clock in/out in real-time, making it ideal for industries like retail, hospitality, and healthcare.
Pros
- Intuitive drag-and-drop scheduling interface
- Strong mobile app for employee self-service
- Real-time notifications and shift trading capabilities
Cons
- Customer support response times can be inconsistent
- Advanced reporting limited to higher-tier plans
- Integrations occasionally experience sync delays
Best For
Small to medium-sized businesses in shift-heavy industries like retail, restaurants, and healthcare needing flexible employee scheduling.
Pricing
Free for basic use (1 location); paid plans start at $2/active user/month for scheduling, up to $4/user/month for premium features including time tracking and forecasting.
Homebase
specializedHomebase delivers free online employee scheduling, time tracking, and communication for small to medium businesses.
Free forever plan with core scheduling and time tracking for single-location teams
Homebase is an all-in-one workforce management platform tailored for small to medium-sized businesses with hourly employees, focusing on scheduling, time tracking, and team communication. It enables drag-and-drop shift creation, auto-scheduling, shift trading, and geofenced time clocks via a user-friendly mobile app. Additional tools include hiring, onboarding, and payroll integrations, making it a comprehensive solution for frontline teams in retail, hospitality, and services.
Pros
- Generous free plan for single-location businesses with unlimited employees
- Intuitive drag-and-drop scheduling and mobile-first design
- Strong integrations with payroll providers like Gusto and QuickBooks
Cons
- Advanced reporting and multi-location features require paid upgrades
- Customer support can be slow for free plan users
- Limited customization options for complex enterprise needs
Best For
Small businesses and single-location managers in hourly-wage industries like restaurants and retail seeking affordable, easy-to-use rostering without upfront costs.
Pricing
Free for one location (unlimited employees); Essentials starts at $29.99/location/month (billed annually); Premium at $59.99/location/month.
Sling
specializedSling is a free employee scheduling app that enables roster creation, labor cost tracking, and staff communication.
Completely free core scheduling for unlimited users and locations
Sling is a user-friendly online employee rostering software tailored for shift-based businesses like restaurants and retail, enabling managers to create schedules, manage shift trades, and track employee availability. It includes built-in team messaging, notifications, and basic time tracking in premium plans. The platform supports multiple locations and offers mobile apps for on-the-go access.
Pros
- Generous free plan with unlimited schedules and employees
- Intuitive drag-and-drop scheduling interface
- Integrated team chat and shift reminders
Cons
- Advanced features like time clock and labor costing require premium upgrade
- Limited reporting and analytics in the free version
- Customer support primarily email-based with slower response times
Best For
Small to medium shift-based businesses seeking a cost-effective, mobile-friendly rostering tool without complex setup.
Pricing
Free plan for core scheduling; Standard at $1.70/user/month (annual); Premium at $2.50/user/month (annual) for time tracking and more.
7shifts
specialized7shifts specializes in restaurant employee rostering, labor management, and tip tracking for hospitality teams.
Predictive scheduling powered by POS sales data integration for optimal labor forecasting
7shifts is a cloud-based workforce management platform tailored for the restaurant industry, enabling managers to create optimized employee schedules, handle shift trades, and track time and attendance. It offers labor forecasting tools that integrate with POS systems to predict staffing needs based on sales data, along with communication features like announcements and messaging. The software also supports tip pooling, payroll integration, and compliance with labor laws, making it a comprehensive solution for restaurant operations.
Pros
- Powerful scheduling with auto-fill and drag-and-drop interfaces
- Seamless POS integrations for sales-driven labor forecasting
- Comprehensive mobile app for employees to view schedules and request shifts
Cons
- Primarily optimized for restaurants, limiting versatility for other sectors
- Pricing scales quickly for multi-location operations
- Advanced analytics locked behind higher-tier plans
Best For
Restaurant managers and multi-location chains focused on labor cost control and efficient shift rostering.
Pricing
Starts at $29.99 per location/month (billed annually) for Essential; Pro at $59.99, Elite at $99.99, with custom Enterprise pricing.
ZoomShift
specializedZoomShift provides cloud-based employee scheduling, time attendance, and PTO management for distributed teams.
Open shift claiming and employee-driven shift trading, allowing staff to bid on and swap shifts autonomously to fill gaps efficiently.
ZoomShift is a cloud-based employee rostering software tailored for hourly workforces, enabling managers to create, assign, and manage shifts via an intuitive drag-and-drop interface. It includes features like employee self-scheduling, shift trading, mobile time tracking with GPS, and team messaging to streamline operations. The platform helps businesses in retail, hospitality, and services reduce scheduling conflicts, control labor costs, and boost employee engagement through mobile accessibility.
Pros
- Intuitive drag-and-drop scheduling and visual roster views
- Employee self-service for shift swaps, claims, and availability updates
- Strong mobile app for time clocking, notifications, and communication
Cons
- Limited advanced reporting and analytics compared to top competitors
- Basic integrations with payroll and POS systems
- May lack scalability for very large enterprises
Best For
Small to medium-sized businesses in hourly industries like restaurants, retail, and healthcare seeking affordable, mobile-first scheduling without complex enterprise needs.
Pricing
Free for small teams (1 location, <10 employees); paid plans start at $29/month for Basic (up to 75 users) + $1.25/active user/month, with higher tiers at $59+ and $99+; 14-day free trial.
Workforce.com
enterpriseWorkforce.com offers integrated employee rostering, timesheets, and performance tools for operational efficiency.
Automated award interpretation for instant compliance with local labor laws and agreements
Workforce.com is a robust online employee rostering software that enables businesses to create, manage, and automate shift schedules with drag-and-drop functionality and real-time updates. It excels in handling complex rostering needs, including employee availability, skills matching, and compliance with labor awards, particularly in Australia and New Zealand. The platform integrates time tracking, leave management, and payroll, making it a full workforce management solution for industries like hospitality, healthcare, and retail.
Pros
- Powerful automated scheduling with availability and skills-based matching
- Strong compliance tools for labor awards and regulations
- Comprehensive mobile app for employees and managers
Cons
- Higher pricing tiers for advanced features
- Steeper learning curve for complex configurations
- Limited free plan scalability for growing teams
Best For
Medium to large businesses in regulated industries like hospitality and healthcare that require compliant, automated rostering.
Pricing
Free for up to 25 active staff; paid plans start at AU$3.50 per active user/month, scaling to enterprise custom pricing.
Agendrix
specializedAgendrix simplifies employee scheduling with drag-and-drop rosters, notifications, and time clock integration.
Employee shift trading marketplace for self-managed swaps with manager approval
Agendrix is a cloud-based employee scheduling software designed for shift-based businesses, enabling managers to create optimized rosters, track availability, and handle time-off requests efficiently. It features a mobile app for employees to view schedules, clock in/out, trade shifts, and communicate via in-app messaging. The platform emphasizes simplicity and automation, with tools for overtime alerts and skill-based scheduling to streamline workforce management.
Pros
- Highly intuitive interface with drag-and-drop scheduling
- Robust mobile app for employees and managers
- Excellent customer support and quick onboarding
Cons
- Limited advanced reporting and analytics compared to enterprise tools
- Fewer third-party integrations than top competitors
- No native payroll processing
Best For
Small to medium-sized businesses in hospitality, retail, and healthcare seeking affordable, user-friendly shift scheduling.
Pricing
Free for up to 10 users; Pro at $2.95/user/month (annual billing); Advanced at $5.95/user/month; Enterprise custom pricing.
Findmyshift
specializedFindmyshift delivers online staff rostering software for creating schedules, managing shifts, and tracking hours.
Employee-driven shift swapping and bidding system with manager approval
Findmyshift is a cloud-based employee rostering software that enables businesses to create, manage, and share shift schedules efficiently using a drag-and-drop interface. It supports features like employee availability tracking, shift swaps, time clocking, and real-time notifications via mobile apps for both managers and staff. The platform integrates with payroll systems and offers tools for overtime monitoring and labor cost forecasting, making it suitable for industries like hospitality and retail.
Pros
- Highly affordable with a generous free plan for up to 10 staff
- Intuitive drag-and-drop scheduling and mobile accessibility
- Strong employee self-service features like shift swaps and availability submission
Cons
- Limited advanced analytics and reporting in lower-tier plans
- Fewer integrations compared to enterprise competitors
- Customer support response times can vary
Best For
Small to medium-sized businesses in shift-based industries seeking a cost-effective, user-friendly rostering solution without complex setup.
Pricing
Free for up to 10 staff; paid plans start at $18/month for up to 20 staff, scaling to $90+/month for larger teams with more features.
Conclusion
The top 10 rostering tools showcase a range of strengths, but Connecteam emerges as the clear leader, combining a mobile-first design with a robust suite of scheduling and communication features. Deputy and When I Work follow closely, offering comprehensive workforce management and intuitive shift tools respectively, catering to distinct team needs. Whether for small businesses or distributed teams, these platforms demonstrate the evolution of employee scheduling, with Connecteam setting the benchmark.
Don’t miss out on optimizing your team’s productivity—start with Connecteam today, and discover an all-in-one solution that simplifies schedules, enhances communication, and streamlines operations.
Tools Reviewed
All tools were independently evaluated for this comparison