A successful retail organization is often about striking a balance between the right product offering, customer satisfaction and flawless operational execution, among other things. In doing so, the proper use of a workforce management system is crucial. In this blog article, we share some insights on how to get the most out of your WFM software.
Proper implementation, good configuration and good user support has a big impact on the support for the WFM package within your organization.
Therefore, check carefully how the vendor handles implementation, training and support. Proper implementation of workforce management software requires a deep understanding of existing business processes and (partially) changes the way the organization works. Training and involvement of employees, especially key users, are essential. Ask about the vendor's implementation strategy and recent similar project experiences.
Is it really just a supplier? Or more of a partner to help you achieve your goals? Think carefully about this when selecting a WFM system. This can change the way you look at and evaluate a vendor.
How do you choose the right WFM software for your organization? Learn more here.
Good user support is also crucial. Quick resolution of problems and questions is imperative. Check whether the vendor has its own service desk and ask about availability and contact options. An accessible point of contact for employees contributes to support and focus on core organizational activities.
Workforce management software gives you broad and deep insight into the right data for making better choices. By using data-driven decisions, you can demonstrably make better choices for such things as better processes, better shopping experience, higher productivity and lower costs.
Read more about why data is so important within workforce management here.
In general, it is noticeable that employees are increasingly striving for independence and involvement. In doing so, they often have a desire to actively participate in important decision-making.
This is why it is important to involve your employees in choices related to WFM as early as possible. Engage with them to gain insight into the issues they encounter during their daily work. Then use this information to compile a list of all their wants and needs. This list forms the basis on which you can select the most appropriate WFM system.
Continuous improvement and optimization is an iterative process. You start based on company policies, needs and best practices, and from there you continually make improvements to achieve the desired results. In a dynamic retail environment, you're also never done. There are constant changes that you have to respond to in order to find the best balance between the store experience, operational execution and efficiency. So you can always keep making improvements for better results.
A good WFM system provides the insights and suggestions to facilitate the making of better choices and thereby also create an awareness among the people who have to work with the system. This makes it easier and more manageable to achieve objectives.
