Multiple Staffing Systems: Tailor-made Solutions for Complex Shift Requirements

Why do simple shift systems reach their limits? 

Fundamentally, simple shift systems should be preferred, as they are freely scalable and offer stable staffing for employee motivation. But what happens when the staffing levels per shift deviate significantly from each other or the scheduled working time deviates massively from the standard working time? In such cases, the flexible handling of simple systems is often exhausted. This is where multiple staffing systems come in: Unlike standard models, several small teams are deployed simultaneously here, at least during parts of the operating time. Since there are no standard solutions for this, these systems must always be developed individually.

How can the workload in night and weekend work be systematically reduced? 

A major advantage of multiple staffing systems lies in the possibility of creating targeted relief.

• Weekend relief: By dividing shift teams into sub-groups, for example, half-staffing can be implemented on weekends, which significantly reduces the high workload in fully continuous systems.
• Night work reduction: Likewise, night shift staffing can be halved by using multiple staffing. A particular advantage of these models is the "hidden charm" that employees can more easily swap their night shift weeks within the team with colleagues who, for example, prefer to work at night.

How can operating time and working time be effectively decoupled? 

If a company faces the challenge of reconciling a 6-day operating week with an average 5-day workweek for employees, multiple staffing offers an ideal solution. Through targeted overstaffing in certain shifts and the division of teams into sub-groups, the operating time can be evenly staffed according to plan, while a rhythmic alternation between working and free phases is created for the employees. This makes needs-based workforce scheduling possible, which dissolves rigid couplings.

Can "silo thinking" be broken down through networked structures? 

Often, the mentality prevails in simple shift systems that only one's own team counts. But how can a systematic mixing be achieved? Through multiple staffing systems with, for example, nine teams, a networked structure can be created in which each team works together with different partner teams on a daily rotating basis. This not only improves the flow of information between shifts but also systematically promotes cross-shift cooperation and breaks down isolated structures.