Glossary
3 min read
Shift patterns: everything you need to know
Alex Francis
Nov 29, 2024
Everything you need to know
Curious about 12-hour shifts and how they work? Don’t worry, we’ve got you covered. This guide explains what a 12-hour shift is, how it’s used in different industries and gives a few tips on how to make 12-hour shifts work for you and your team.
What is a shift pattern?
A shift pattern is a schedule that outlines when team members are expected to work during a specific period, like a week or a month. It shows shift times, days off and rotations and makes sure a business is properly staffed during operating hours.
Shift patterns are crucial for businesses that operate outside the typical 9-to-5, as they help managers balance employee availability, optimise workflows and meet customer demands without overworking team members.
Why do shift patterns matter?
Effective shift patterns help:
- Ensure full coverage during peak hours and off-peak times.
- Balance employee workloads to prevent burnout.
- Accommodate employee availability and preferences for better job satisfaction.
- Improve operational efficiency by aligning workforce capacity with demand.
Read more: How far in advance should you give employees notice of their work schedule?
Types of shift patterns
There are several shift patterns, each tailored to different business needs:
Fixed shifts
Employees work the same hours each day, offering predictability for both staff and managers.
Rotating shifts
Employees cycle through different shift times, such as mornings, afternoons and nights, to provide 24-hour coverage.
Split shifts
A workday is divided into two or more shifts. This pattern is often used in hospitality to cover busy periods – like lunch and dinner service.
Continental shifts
A 24/7 pattern that rotates between morning, evening and night shifts. This one is most commonly used in manufacturing.
Panama shift pattern
Employees work a 2-2-3 schedule, providing a balance between work and rest over a two-week cycle.
Challenges of shift patterns
Creating effective shift patterns isn’t always easy. Some common challenges can include:
- Staff shortages leading to gaps in coverage.
- Employee preferences for specific shifts or days off.
- Seasonal fluctuations in demand, requiring flexible scheduling.
How to better manage shift patterns
A dedicated workforce management software solution (like Planday) can simplify shift pattern management. With Planday, you can schedule shifts, track staff availability and even adjust for last-minute changes – all from one easy-to-use system.
Read more: Employee scheduling guide
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