Quick Overview
- 1#1: UKG Pro - Enterprise workforce management platform offering advanced scheduling, forecasting, time tracking, and compliance tools optimized for retail staffing.
- 2#2: Legion WFM - AI-powered workforce management software that automates retail staffing decisions, optimizes schedules, and reduces labor costs through predictive analytics.
- 3#3: Dayforce - Integrated HCM solution providing real-time workforce management, scheduling, and payroll for efficient retail staffing operations.
- 4#4: Deputy - Cloud-based scheduling and time tracking tool designed for retail businesses to manage shifts, labor costs, and employee communication.
- 5#5: When I Work - Mobile scheduling app that simplifies shift management, availability tracking, and team messaging for hourly retail workers.
- 6#6: Homebase - Free employee scheduling, time clock, and hiring platform tailored for small retail teams to streamline staffing.
- 7#7: Connecteam - All-in-one app for frontline retail workers handling scheduling, communication, training, and time tracking in one platform.
- 8#8: 7shifts - Scheduling and labor management software for retail and restaurant operations with forecasting, compliance, and tip tracking features.
- 9#9: Sling - Team management tool for creating schedules, assigning tasks, and tracking time to optimize retail staffing efficiency.
- 10#10: Workforce.com - Integrated scheduling, time tracking, and HR platform for managing retail rosters, leave, and performance.
Tools were evaluated based on feature depth (scheduling, forecasting, time tracking), user-friendliness, reliability, and value, ensuring they deliver measurable efficiency for diverse retail needs.
Comparison Table
Retail staffing software is essential for optimally scheduling staff, ensuring coverage, and enhancing operational efficiency in the retail sector. This comparison table features top tools like UKG Pro, Legion WFM, Dayforce, Deputy, When I Work, and more, comparing their key features, pricing models, and integration options. Readers will gain insights to identify the best platform for their retail business, whether for small stores or large multi-location chains.
| # | Tool | Category | Overall | Features | Ease of Use | Value |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | UKG Pro Enterprise workforce management platform offering advanced scheduling, forecasting, time tracking, and compliance tools optimized for retail staffing. | enterprise | 9.5/10 | 9.8/10 | 8.4/10 | 9.1/10 |
| 2 | Legion WFM AI-powered workforce management software that automates retail staffing decisions, optimizes schedules, and reduces labor costs through predictive analytics. | specialized | 9.2/10 | 9.6/10 | 8.4/10 | 8.9/10 |
| 3 | Dayforce Integrated HCM solution providing real-time workforce management, scheduling, and payroll for efficient retail staffing operations. | enterprise | 8.6/10 | 9.2/10 | 7.8/10 | 8.0/10 |
| 4 | Deputy Cloud-based scheduling and time tracking tool designed for retail businesses to manage shifts, labor costs, and employee communication. | specialized | 8.7/10 | 8.9/10 | 9.2/10 | 8.4/10 |
| 5 | When I Work Mobile scheduling app that simplifies shift management, availability tracking, and team messaging for hourly retail workers. | specialized | 8.6/10 | 8.4/10 | 9.2/10 | 8.7/10 |
| 6 | Homebase Free employee scheduling, time clock, and hiring platform tailored for small retail teams to streamline staffing. | other | 8.3/10 | 8.1/10 | 9.2/10 | 9.0/10 |
| 7 | Connecteam All-in-one app for frontline retail workers handling scheduling, communication, training, and time tracking in one platform. | specialized | 8.6/10 | 8.8/10 | 9.1/10 | 8.1/10 |
| 8 | 7shifts Scheduling and labor management software for retail and restaurant operations with forecasting, compliance, and tip tracking features. | specialized | 7.8/10 | 8.2/10 | 8.7/10 | 7.4/10 |
| 9 | Sling Team management tool for creating schedules, assigning tasks, and tracking time to optimize retail staffing efficiency. | other | 8.2/10 | 8.0/10 | 9.2/10 | 9.5/10 |
| 10 | Workforce.com Integrated scheduling, time tracking, and HR platform for managing retail rosters, leave, and performance. | specialized | 8.2/10 | 8.5/10 | 8.0/10 | 7.8/10 |
Enterprise workforce management platform offering advanced scheduling, forecasting, time tracking, and compliance tools optimized for retail staffing.
AI-powered workforce management software that automates retail staffing decisions, optimizes schedules, and reduces labor costs through predictive analytics.
Integrated HCM solution providing real-time workforce management, scheduling, and payroll for efficient retail staffing operations.
Cloud-based scheduling and time tracking tool designed for retail businesses to manage shifts, labor costs, and employee communication.
Mobile scheduling app that simplifies shift management, availability tracking, and team messaging for hourly retail workers.
Free employee scheduling, time clock, and hiring platform tailored for small retail teams to streamline staffing.
All-in-one app for frontline retail workers handling scheduling, communication, training, and time tracking in one platform.
Scheduling and labor management software for retail and restaurant operations with forecasting, compliance, and tip tracking features.
Team management tool for creating schedules, assigning tasks, and tracking time to optimize retail staffing efficiency.
Integrated scheduling, time tracking, and HR platform for managing retail rosters, leave, and performance.
UKG Pro
enterpriseEnterprise workforce management platform offering advanced scheduling, forecasting, time tracking, and compliance tools optimized for retail staffing.
AI-driven Retail Labor Optimization, which uses predictive analytics to balance staffing with real-time sales demand and minimize costs.
UKG Pro is a comprehensive cloud-based HCM platform designed for mid-market to enterprise organizations, with robust workforce management capabilities tailored for retail staffing. It excels in automated scheduling, demand forecasting, time and attendance tracking, and compliance management for hourly retail workers. The solution integrates AI-driven insights to optimize labor costs, reduce overtime, and improve employee engagement through mobile self-service tools.
Pros
- Advanced AI-powered scheduling and labor forecasting that predicts staffing needs based on sales data and historical trends
- Seamless mobile app for employee self-service, shift swapping, and time tracking, ideal for retail's dynamic workforce
- Strong compliance tools ensuring adherence to labor laws, union rules, and retail-specific regulations
Cons
- Complex initial setup and customization requiring significant implementation time and expertise
- Higher pricing suited more for larger enterprises than small retail operations
- Steep learning curve for non-technical users despite intuitive mobile interfaces
Best For
Large retail chains and multi-location businesses needing scalable, enterprise-grade staffing optimization and workforce management.
Pricing
Quote-based pricing, typically $25-$60 per employee per month depending on modules and scale; includes core HCM, WFM, and payroll.
Legion WFM
specializedAI-powered workforce management software that automates retail staffing decisions, optimizes schedules, and reduces labor costs through predictive analytics.
GenAI-powered demand forecasting that dynamically predicts staffing needs based on sales, weather, and events with 95%+ accuracy
Legion WFM is an AI-powered workforce management platform tailored for retail, using advanced machine learning for demand forecasting, automated scheduling, and real-time labor optimization. It helps retailers staff efficiently by predicting sales-driven needs, filling shifts via mobile apps, and ensuring compliance with labor laws. The solution integrates with POS systems, HRIS, and time clocks to streamline operations and boost sales per labor hour.
Pros
- Highly accurate AI-driven demand forecasting outperforms traditional methods
- Robust employee self-service mobile app reduces administrative burden
- Deep integrations with retail POS and HR systems for seamless data flow
Cons
- Steep learning curve for initial setup and customization
- Enterprise-level pricing may be prohibitive for small retailers
- Implementation can take several months for large chains
Best For
Mid-to-large retail chains with variable demand seeking AI-optimized staffing to cut costs and improve efficiency.
Pricing
Custom enterprise pricing; typically quoted per store/month starting around $50-100+ depending on scale and features.
Dayforce
enterpriseIntegrated HCM solution providing real-time workforce management, scheduling, and payroll for efficient retail staffing operations.
Intelligent Scheduling with predictive analytics that forecasts labor needs based on historical sales and real-time POS data
Dayforce is a comprehensive HCM platform with robust workforce management capabilities designed for retail staffing, including AI-driven scheduling, time and attendance tracking, and labor forecasting. It integrates payroll, benefits, and compliance tools to handle variable hourly workforces typical in retail environments. The mobile-first employee app enables shift swapping, availability updates, and real-time communication, while analytics optimize staffing against sales data.
Pros
- AI-powered demand forecasting integrates with POS for precise retail staffing
- Seamless payroll integration reduces errors for hourly workers
- Scalable for multi-location enterprises with strong compliance tools
Cons
- High implementation costs and complexity for smaller retailers
- Steep learning curve despite intuitive mobile app
- Custom pricing lacks transparency for mid-sized businesses
Best For
Large retail chains with complex, multi-location staffing needs requiring integrated HCM and advanced analytics.
Pricing
Enterprise quote-based pricing, typically $15-25 per employee/month plus implementation fees.
Deputy
specializedCloud-based scheduling and time tracking tool designed for retail businesses to manage shifts, labor costs, and employee communication.
Labor forecasting and predictive scheduling that uses historical sales data to optimize staffing and minimize over/under-scheduling.
Deputy is a mobile-first workforce management platform tailored for retail staffing, offering drag-and-drop scheduling, time tracking, and shift management to handle variable hourly workforces. It includes features like real-time notifications, labor forecasting, and compliance tools to prevent overtime violations and ensure fair labor practices. Retail managers can optimize staffing levels across multiple locations while employees access schedules and clock in/out via an intuitive app.
Pros
- Intuitive drag-and-drop scheduling with auto-fill and forecasting
- Strong mobile app for employee self-service and geofenced clock-ins
- Robust integrations with POS, payroll, and retail systems like Lightspeed
Cons
- Reporting and analytics lack depth for advanced retail metrics
- Customization options limited for highly complex multi-site operations
- Customer support can be slower for non-enterprise users
Best For
Mid-sized retail chains with hourly, shift-based staff needing flexible scheduling and compliance across locations.
Pricing
Starts at $3.50/active user/month (Essentials, annual billing); Plus at $4.50, Enterprise custom; free trial available.
When I Work
specializedMobile scheduling app that simplifies shift management, availability tracking, and team messaging for hourly retail workers.
OpenShift feature allowing employees to claim available shifts in real-time via app
When I Work is a cloud-based workforce management platform specializing in employee scheduling, time tracking, and team communication for hourly workforces like retail. It enables managers to build drag-and-drop schedules, handle shift trades and availability requests, and track attendance via a mobile app. The tool excels in real-time notifications and self-service features for employees, making shift management efficient for retail environments.
Pros
- Intuitive drag-and-drop scheduling interface
- Robust mobile app for employee self-service
- Real-time shift notifications and trades
Cons
- Limited advanced forecasting and analytics
- Reporting capabilities are basic
- Integrations are not as extensive as competitors
Best For
Small to mid-sized retail businesses needing simple, mobile-friendly scheduling for hourly shift workers.
Pricing
Free basic plan; Premium at $2/user/month; Elite at $3.50/user/month; Enterprise custom pricing.
Homebase
otherFree employee scheduling, time clock, and hiring platform tailored for small retail teams to streamline staffing.
OpenShifts, which allows employees to claim available shifts via a self-service marketplace, reducing manager workload.
Homebase is an all-in-one workforce management platform designed for hourly retail workers, offering drag-and-drop scheduling, geofenced time tracking, team messaging, and hiring tools. It streamlines retail staffing by automating shift assignments, preventing labor law violations like overtime, and facilitating quick onboarding for seasonal or part-time staff. The software integrates with popular payroll providers to simplify operations for small to medium-sized retail businesses.
Pros
- Intuitive drag-and-drop scheduling
- Free plan for basic features up to one location
- Strong mobile app for employees and managers
Cons
- Advanced reporting and analytics locked behind paid tiers
- Limited customization for complex multi-location setups
- Payroll processing requires third-party integrations
Best For
Small to medium retail businesses with hourly shift workers seeking affordable, easy-to-use scheduling and time tracking.
Pricing
Essentials (free for 1 location); Premium ($29.95/location/month billed annually); Elite ($59.95/location/month billed annually).
Connecteam
specializedAll-in-one app for frontline retail workers handling scheduling, communication, training, and time tracking in one platform.
Facial recognition time clock with geofencing for accurate, fraud-proof attendance in retail settings
Connecteam is an all-in-one mobile-first workforce management platform tailored for frontline and deskless workers, providing tools for scheduling, time tracking, communication, task assignment, training, and performance management. For retail staffing, it streamlines shift planning, GPS-verified clock-ins, team chats, and compliance checklists to keep store teams coordinated and productive. Its comprehensive feature set reduces reliance on multiple apps, making it suitable for dynamic retail environments with high turnover.
Pros
- Highly intuitive mobile app ideal for on-the-go retail staff
- Advanced scheduling with auto-fill and shift swapping
- GPS time tracking and facial recognition prevent time theft
Cons
- Feature overload can overwhelm small teams
- Advanced reporting and custom training locked behind higher plans
- Pricing increases significantly with user count
Best For
Retail managers of small to mid-sized stores with hourly shift workers needing mobile scheduling, communication, and compliance tools.
Pricing
Free for up to 10 users; paid plans start at $29/month (Basic for 30 users), up to $99/month (Expert), plus per-user fees for larger teams.
7shifts
specializedScheduling and labor management software for retail and restaurant operations with forecasting, compliance, and tip tracking features.
AI-driven Auto Forecast that predicts labor needs from POS sales data for precise staffing.
7shifts is a workforce management platform primarily designed for restaurants but adaptable for retail staffing, offering drag-and-drop scheduling, time tracking, and labor forecasting tools. It enables managers to build schedules based on sales forecasts, track employee hours via mobile clock-in with geofencing, and communicate shifts through an in-app hub. The software emphasizes labor cost control and compliance, making it suitable for hourly retail operations with variable demand.
Pros
- Intuitive drag-and-drop scheduling with mobile accessibility
- Strong labor forecasting using sales data integrations
- Comprehensive communication tools for shift trades and announcements
Cons
- Features heavily tailored to restaurants (e.g., tip pooling), less optimized for pure retail
- Advanced features locked behind higher-tier plans
- Limited native retail-specific inventory or sales analytics
Best For
Small to mid-sized retail businesses with hourly, shift-based staff needing efficient scheduling and cost management similar to hospitality environments.
Pricing
Starts at $29.99/location/month (Essentials, billed annually); scales to $130+/location/month for Pro plan with full features.
Sling
otherTeam management tool for creating schedules, assigning tasks, and tracking time to optimize retail staffing efficiency.
Real-time labor cost tracking that updates dynamically as schedules change
Sling is a user-friendly workforce scheduling platform tailored for shift-based industries like retail, enabling managers to create schedules, track employee availability, and facilitate shift trades. It includes time clock functionality, labor cost tracking, and team communication tools to streamline daily operations. Ideal for retail environments with hourly staff, it helps optimize staffing while minimizing overstaffing and overtime.
Pros
- Intuitive drag-and-drop scheduling with templates
- Real-time time tracking and attendance alerts
- Generous free plan for single locations
Cons
- Limited advanced reporting and analytics
- Fewer integrations with payroll/HR systems
- Less suited for enterprise-scale operations
Best For
Small to medium retail businesses with hourly shift workers needing simple, affordable scheduling and time management.
Pricing
Free for single locations; paid plans (Standard and Premium) start at $2 per active user per month, billed annually.
Workforce.com
specializedIntegrated scheduling, time tracking, and HR platform for managing retail rosters, leave, and performance.
AI-driven labor forecasting and auto-scheduling that optimizes shifts based on sales data and historical trends
Workforce.com is a robust workforce management platform tailored for retail and hourly staffing, providing drag-and-drop scheduling, real-time time tracking, and labor compliance tools. It helps retail managers forecast demand, fill shifts quickly, and manage employee communication via a mobile-first app. The software integrates with payroll systems and offers GPS geofencing to ensure accurate attendance in dynamic retail environments.
Pros
- Intuitive drag-and-drop scheduling with auto-fill capabilities
- Strong mobile app for employee self-service and clock-ins
- Advanced compliance tools including labor law automation
Cons
- Pricing can be steep for small retail operations
- Limited advanced reporting customization
- Occasional integration delays with third-party payroll
Best For
Mid-sized retail chains with hourly staff needing scalable scheduling and compliance management.
Pricing
Custom pricing starting at around $3-5 per active user/month, with tiers for enterprise features.
Conclusion
The reviewed retail staffing software provides strong options to enhance operational efficiency, with UKG Pro leading as the top choice, thanks to its advanced enterprise tools for scheduling, forecasting, and compliance. Legion WFM and Dayforce follow closely, offering AI-driven automation and integrated HCM solutions respectively, catering to diverse staffing needs and ensuring businesses have reliable alternatives to suit their unique requirements.
Elevate your retail staffing by starting with the top-ranked UKG Pro, or explore Legion WFM and Dayforce to find the ideal fit for your business needs.
Tools Reviewed
All tools were independently evaluated for this comparison