Quick Overview
- 1#1: UKG Dimensions - Delivers enterprise-grade workforce management with advanced forecasting, scheduling, timekeeping, and compliance tools.
- 2#2: Workday - Cloud-based HCM platform offering integrated workforce management, analytics, and absence tracking.
- 3#3: Dayforce - Unified HCM solution providing real-time workforce management, scheduling, and payroll integration.
- 4#4: ADP Workforce Now - Scalable workforce management with time and attendance, scheduling, and talent management features.
- 5#5: Oracle HCM Cloud - Comprehensive enterprise WFM including strategic workforce planning, scheduling, and analytics.
- 6#6: Workforce Software - Real-time workforce management platform for complex scheduling and optimization across industries.
- 7#7: Deputy - Mobile-first tool for employee scheduling, time tracking, and task management.
- 8#8: When I Work - Simple scheduling and time clock app designed for hourly teams and shift workers.
- 9#9: Homebase - Free workforce management for small businesses with scheduling, time tracking, and hiring.
- 10#10: 7shifts - Restaurant-specific WFM tool for labor forecasting, scheduling, and tip management.
We ranked these tools based on robust features (including forecasting, integration, and time tracking), user-friendly design, performance reliability, and overall value, ensuring they cater to varied organizational sizes and industry requirements.
Comparison Table
Explore the landscape of workforce management software with our detailed comparison table, featuring tools such as UKG Dimensions, Workday, Dayforce, ADP Workforce Now, Oracle HCM Cloud, and additional solutions. This resource outlines key capabilities, integration strengths, and user experiences to help you evaluate options and find the best fit for your organization’s requirements.
| # | Tool | Category | Overall | Features | Ease of Use | Value |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | UKG Dimensions Delivers enterprise-grade workforce management with advanced forecasting, scheduling, timekeeping, and compliance tools. | enterprise | 9.4/10 | 9.8/10 | 8.2/10 | 9.0/10 |
| 2 | Workday Cloud-based HCM platform offering integrated workforce management, analytics, and absence tracking. | enterprise | 9.1/10 | 9.6/10 | 8.2/10 | 8.7/10 |
| 3 | Dayforce Unified HCM solution providing real-time workforce management, scheduling, and payroll integration. | enterprise | 8.8/10 | 9.3/10 | 8.0/10 | 8.2/10 |
| 4 | ADP Workforce Now Scalable workforce management with time and attendance, scheduling, and talent management features. | enterprise | 8.3/10 | 9.1/10 | 7.4/10 | 7.9/10 |
| 5 | Oracle HCM Cloud Comprehensive enterprise WFM including strategic workforce planning, scheduling, and analytics. | enterprise | 8.2/10 | 9.1/10 | 7.0/10 | 7.5/10 |
| 6 | Workforce Software Real-time workforce management platform for complex scheduling and optimization across industries. | enterprise | 8.4/10 | 9.1/10 | 7.2/10 | 8.0/10 |
| 7 | Deputy Mobile-first tool for employee scheduling, time tracking, and task management. | specialized | 8.4/10 | 8.7/10 | 8.9/10 | 7.9/10 |
| 8 | When I Work Simple scheduling and time clock app designed for hourly teams and shift workers. | specialized | 8.2/10 | 8.0/10 | 9.2/10 | 8.5/10 |
| 9 | Homebase Free workforce management for small businesses with scheduling, time tracking, and hiring. | specialized | 8.1/10 | 8.3/10 | 9.2/10 | 9.0/10 |
| 10 | 7shifts Restaurant-specific WFM tool for labor forecasting, scheduling, and tip management. | specialized | 8.2/10 | 8.5/10 | 9.0/10 | 7.8/10 |
Delivers enterprise-grade workforce management with advanced forecasting, scheduling, timekeeping, and compliance tools.
Cloud-based HCM platform offering integrated workforce management, analytics, and absence tracking.
Unified HCM solution providing real-time workforce management, scheduling, and payroll integration.
Scalable workforce management with time and attendance, scheduling, and talent management features.
Comprehensive enterprise WFM including strategic workforce planning, scheduling, and analytics.
Real-time workforce management platform for complex scheduling and optimization across industries.
Mobile-first tool for employee scheduling, time tracking, and task management.
Simple scheduling and time clock app designed for hourly teams and shift workers.
Free workforce management for small businesses with scheduling, time tracking, and hiring.
Restaurant-specific WFM tool for labor forecasting, scheduling, and tip management.
UKG Dimensions
enterpriseDelivers enterprise-grade workforce management with advanced forecasting, scheduling, timekeeping, and compliance tools.
AI-powered Intelligent Viability, which dynamically assesses schedule feasibility against demand, compliance, and employee rules in real-time.
UKG Dimensions is a comprehensive cloud-based workforce management (WFM) platform that streamlines time and attendance, scheduling, forecasting, and labor analytics for enterprises. It integrates AI-driven tools for predictive workforce planning, compliance management, and real-time visibility into operations. Designed for scalability, it supports complex, global workforces across industries like retail, healthcare, and manufacturing.
Pros
- Extensive feature set including AI forecasting, automated scheduling, and hyperlocal compliance
- Highly scalable for global enterprises with robust mobile and integrations
- Advanced analytics and real-time dashboards for data-driven decisions
Cons
- Steep learning curve due to feature depth and customization options
- Expensive pricing model best suited for mid-to-large organizations
- Implementation can take several months with required consulting
Best For
Large enterprises with complex, multi-location workforces needing end-to-end WFM automation.
Pricing
Custom quote-based pricing; typically $10-50 per user/month for core modules, scaling with add-ons and enterprise volume.
Workday
enterpriseCloud-based HCM platform offering integrated workforce management, analytics, and absence tracking.
AI-driven predictive workforce planning with Skills Cloud for intelligent matching of employee skills to demand
Workday is a leading cloud-based enterprise HCM platform with comprehensive Workforce Management (WFM) capabilities, including employee scheduling, time and attendance tracking, absence management, and shift optimization. It leverages AI-driven analytics for demand forecasting, workforce planning, and compliance. Ideal for large organizations, it provides a unified data model that integrates WFM seamlessly with HR, payroll, and financials for real-time insights.
Pros
- Advanced AI-powered forecasting and scheduling for optimized workforce deployment
- Deep integration with HCM, payroll, and financial modules for unified operations
- Highly scalable with mobile-first access and robust compliance tools
Cons
- High implementation costs and lengthy setup timelines
- Steep learning curve for non-enterprise users
- Pricing prohibitive for small to mid-sized businesses
Best For
Large enterprises needing integrated, AI-enhanced WFM within a full HCM suite.
Pricing
Custom quote-based pricing, typically $150+ per employee per year with minimums for enterprises.
Dayforce
enterpriseUnified HCM solution providing real-time workforce management, scheduling, and payroll integration.
Single-database real-time processing for continuous payroll and WFM calculations
Dayforce, from Ceridian, is a comprehensive HCM platform with robust workforce management (WFM) capabilities, including scheduling, time and attendance tracking, demand forecasting, and labor optimization. It uses AI and machine learning for predictive insights, automated scheduling, and compliance management, all integrated seamlessly with payroll and HR functions. This single-database architecture provides real-time data processing and visibility, making it ideal for complex, global workforces.
Pros
- Advanced AI-driven forecasting and intelligent scheduling
- Seamless integration across HCM modules for real-time data
- Strong compliance tools and mobile accessibility
Cons
- High implementation costs and lengthy setup time
- Steep learning curve for non-enterprise users
- Pricing lacks transparency and can be expensive for smaller teams
Best For
Large enterprises with complex, global workforces needing integrated HCM and advanced WFM.
Pricing
Custom enterprise pricing, typically $10-25 per employee/month; quote-based with minimums.
ADP Workforce Now
enterpriseScalable workforce management with time and attendance, scheduling, and talent management features.
AI-powered forecasting and scheduling that predicts labor needs based on historical data and trends
ADP Workforce Now is a comprehensive cloud-based HCM platform with robust WFM capabilities, including employee scheduling, time and attendance tracking, labor forecasting, and shift management. It integrates seamlessly with payroll, benefits, and HR modules for end-to-end workforce oversight. Designed for mid-market to enterprise organizations, it emphasizes compliance, scalability, and data-driven decision-making.
Pros
- Extensive integration with HCM tools like payroll and HR
- Strong compliance and regulatory features across industries
- Advanced analytics and forecasting for optimized scheduling
Cons
- Steep learning curve and complex interface
- High implementation costs and time
- Pricing can be expensive for smaller teams
Best For
Mid-sized to large enterprises seeking an integrated WFM solution with payroll and compliance focus.
Pricing
Quote-based pricing, typically $100-$200+ per employee/month depending on modules and company size.
Oracle HCM Cloud
enterpriseComprehensive enterprise WFM including strategic workforce planning, scheduling, and analytics.
AI-Driven Dynamic Scheduling that automatically optimizes shifts based on demand forecasts, skills, and compliance rules
Oracle HCM Cloud is a comprehensive enterprise Human Capital Management platform with robust Workforce Management (WFM) capabilities, including advanced scheduling, time and labor tracking, absence management, and shift optimization. It leverages AI and machine learning for workforce forecasting, real-time compliance monitoring across global regulations, and seamless integration with payroll and talent management modules. Ideal for large-scale operations, it provides actionable insights to reduce labor costs and improve employee productivity.
Pros
- Highly scalable for global enterprises with multi-location support
- AI-powered forecasting and dynamic scheduling for optimized workforce planning
- Deep integration with Oracle's HCM suite for end-to-end HR processes
Cons
- Steep learning curve and complex implementation requiring expert configuration
- High cost structure not suitable for small or mid-sized businesses
- Customization can lead to dependency on Oracle consultants
Best For
Large multinational enterprises needing integrated HCM and advanced WFM for complex, regulated workforces.
Pricing
Custom enterprise pricing; typically $15-30 per employee per month for core HCM with WFM modules, billed annually.
Workforce Software
enterpriseReal-time workforce management platform for complex scheduling and optimization across industries.
Configurable rules engine for hyper-customized scheduling and compliance across 100+ countries
Workforce Software provides a comprehensive workforce management (WFM) platform designed for large enterprises, offering tools for employee scheduling, time and attendance tracking, absence management, and compliance with global labor regulations. It includes advanced forecasting, analytics, and optimization features to handle complex, multi-site operations across industries like retail, healthcare, and manufacturing. The platform emphasizes scalability, mobile accessibility, and employee self-service to improve operational efficiency and reduce labor costs.
Pros
- Highly scalable for global enterprises with thousands of employees
- Robust compliance and forecasting tools with AI-driven insights
- Strong integrations with HRIS, ERP, and payroll systems
Cons
- Steep learning curve and complex initial setup
- High implementation costs and long deployment timelines
- Pricing lacks transparency and is enterprise-only
Best For
Large organizations with complex, unionized, or global workforces needing advanced scheduling and compliance management.
Pricing
Custom enterprise pricing via quote; typically $100K+ annually for mid-sized deployments, scaling with employee count.
Deputy
specializedMobile-first tool for employee scheduling, time tracking, and task management.
OpenShifts, allowing employees to claim available shifts in real-time via mobile app
Deputy is a cloud-based workforce management (WFM) software tailored for shift-based industries like retail, hospitality, and healthcare, providing robust employee scheduling, time tracking, and communication tools. It enables managers to build schedules, handle shift swaps via mobile apps, and monitor attendance with geofencing and facial recognition. The platform integrates with payroll systems and POS for seamless labor costing and compliance with labor regulations.
Pros
- Intuitive mobile app for employees and managers
- Real-time notifications and shift trading
- Strong integrations with payroll and POS systems
Cons
- Pricing can escalate for larger teams or advanced features
- Reporting depth limited in lower-tier plans
- Occasional glitches in mobile clock-in during peak times
Best For
Mid-sized shift-based businesses in retail or hospitality needing mobile-first scheduling and attendance tracking.
Pricing
Starts at $3.50 per user per week for Schedule plan; higher tiers like Plus ($5.25) and Enterprise with custom pricing; free trial available.
When I Work
specializedSimple scheduling and time clock app designed for hourly teams and shift workers.
Open Shift Pool, allowing employees to claim available shifts in real-time via a self-service marketplace
When I Work is a mobile-first workforce management software tailored for shift-based businesses like retail, restaurants, and healthcare. It streamlines employee scheduling, shift trading, time tracking, and attendance management through an intuitive app. The platform also includes communication tools and basic reporting to help teams coordinate efficiently.
Pros
- Highly intuitive mobile app for employees and managers
- Seamless shift swapping and open shift marketplace
- Strong time clock and attendance tracking with geofencing
Cons
- Limited advanced labor forecasting and analytics
- Reporting capabilities lack depth for enterprise needs
- Customer support can be slow for non-premium users
Best For
Small to mid-sized businesses with hourly, shift-based workforces seeking simple scheduling and communication tools.
Pricing
Free plan for basic scheduling (up to 75 users); paid plans start at $2 per active user/month (Essential), $4 (Pro), and $6 (Elite), billed annually.
Homebase
specializedFree workforce management for small businesses with scheduling, time tracking, and hiring.
Completely free core scheduling and time tracking with no employee limits for single-location teams
Homebase is an all-in-one workforce management platform tailored for small businesses with hourly workers, offering employee scheduling, time tracking, team communication, and hiring tools. It simplifies shift planning with drag-and-drop calendars, auto-scheduling based on availability, and mobile clock-in with geofencing. The software integrates with payroll providers and includes performance insights, making it ideal for industries like retail, restaurants, and services.
Pros
- Intuitive mobile-first interface that's easy for non-tech-savvy teams
- Generous free plan with unlimited scheduling and time tracking for one location
- Strong integrations with popular payroll systems like Gusto and QuickBooks
Cons
- Limited advanced analytics and forecasting compared to enterprise tools
- Scalability issues for multi-location businesses beyond basic needs
- Customer support can be slow on the free plan
Best For
Small retail, restaurant, or service businesses with 10-50 hourly employees seeking simple, affordable scheduling and time tracking.
Pricing
Free plan for one location; paid plans start at $20/location/month (Starter), $40/location/month (Essentials), up to custom Premium pricing.
7shifts
specializedRestaurant-specific WFM tool for labor forecasting, scheduling, and tip management.
OpenShifts marketplace for easy employee shift claiming and auto-filling schedules
7shifts is a workforce management platform tailored for the restaurant industry, focusing on employee scheduling, time tracking, and labor cost control. It enables managers to create optimized schedules, forecast labor needs based on sales data, and facilitate shift trading among staff via a mobile app. Additional features include team messaging, tip tracking, and integrations with popular POS systems to streamline restaurant operations.
Pros
- Intuitive scheduling and shift trading tools ideal for hourly restaurant workers
- Strong mobile app for employee self-service and communication
- Robust POS integrations for accurate sales-driven forecasting
Cons
- Primarily focused on restaurants, less versatile for other industries
- Pricing scales per location and can add up for multi-site operations
- Advanced analytics and reporting limited to higher-tier plans
Best For
Restaurant owners and managers of single or multi-location operations seeking efficient scheduling and labor cost management.
Pricing
Starts at $29.99/location/month (Essentials), $43.99 (Pro), $59.99 (Elite), billed annually with add-ons for extra users or features.
Conclusion
Evaluating the top 10 workforce management tools reveals UKG Dimensions as the clear leader, combining enterprise-grade features like advanced forecasting and compliance. Workday and Dayforce excel as strong alternatives, with Workday offering cloud-based HCM and analytics, and Dayforce providing real-time management and payroll integration. Each tool suits diverse needs, from industry-specific scheduling to small business simplicity, ensuring a standout option for every organization.
Take the next step in optimizing your workforce—explore UKG Dimensions, the top-ranked solution, and discover how its robust capabilities can enhance efficiency and productivity.
Tools Reviewed
All tools were independently evaluated for this comparison