Workload analysis is the first stage of the rostering process, whether you are evaluating current shift systems or devising alternatives. Sometimes very little analysis is needed - it may be possible to state the requirements in simple terms such as, for example, one team of workers needed at all times, 24 hours a day, 7 days a week. However, it can be  the most complicated stage of the whole process. For example, airlines and airport services have schedule-related workloads that vary by time of day, day of week and week in the year. In this situation, accurate workload models are important for the evaluation and day-to-day running of current shift systems and also as a basis for creating more efficient alternatives.

Examples of ways in which workloads can be presented:

• Variations by time of day
• Variations by day of week
• Variations by month in the year (seasonal)
• Variations by calendar month

We have developed workload models for a number of business sectors. See the Call Centre example. Let us know if you need any help with the analysis of workload or the development of workload models.