Efficient scheduling is key to managing your team’s time effectively. With the Shift Series feature (previously known as Permanent Shifts), you can streamline the process by adding recurring shift patterns to your grid. Whether you’re setting up regular work shifts, on-call blocks, or special assignments like overtime or time off, this tool helps you build schedules faster and with greater precision. In this guide, we’ll walk you through the step-by-step process of adding a Shift Series, explain your options, and provide tips to ensure your schedules align perfectly with your team’s needs.

Step-by-Step Instructions for Adding a Shift Series

1. Navigate to the Grid
   Go to the Grid page where you want to add the Shift Series. Locate and click the "+ Shift Series" button to begin.
   

2. Select the User
   From the dropdown menu, choose the user for whom you’re creating the shift.
   

3. Choose the Shift Type
   Select the appropriate shift type from the options:

   • Regular Shift: For standard work shifts the user will perform.

   • On Call: For scheduling recurring on-call time blocks.

   • Special Type Shift: For recurring blocks like Overtime, Time Off, Comp Time, or Special Assignments.
     
     

4. Set the Shift Time

   • Choose Standard Shift for predefined shift lengths.

   • Select Other Time to input a custom shift duration tailored to your needs.
     

5. Define the Start Date
   Specify when the Shift Series begins. You can manually type the date or click the field to pick from a calendar. For example, entering "04/01/2025" sets the start for April 1st, 2025.

6. Set the End Date (Optional)
   Choose an end date for the Shift Series by typing it in or selecting from the calendar. Leave this blank if you want the shifts to repeat indefinitely.

7. Set Conflict Preferences
   Choose how the Shift Series handles scheduling conflicts:

   • Keep Both Shifts: Overlays new shifts atop existing ones, potentially double-booking the user.

   • Overwrite Conflicting Shifts: Replaces only the conflicting shifts with the new ones.

   • Overwrite All Shifts: Clears the user’s schedule (except Overtime/Time Off) and applies the new series.

   • Only Create Shifts if No Conflict: Adds shifts only to days marked as Regular Days Off.
     

8. Add to Support Row (Optional)
   Toggle this option if you want the Shift Series to appear in the Support Row of another group. If enabled, a Group dropdown will appear for you to select the relevant group.
   

9. Add Recurring Notes (Optional)
   Check the Add Notes box to include a recurring note on all shifts in the series. A text field will open for your input. You can also opt to display the note only on the first shift, leaving subsequent shifts note-free.
   

10. Configure the Pattern or Rotation

    • Weekly Pattern: Select specific days of the week for the shift (e.g., Monday–Friday, 06:00–14:00, with weekends off).

    • Rotation Pattern: Use a predefined rotation for more complex schedules. (Learn more in our Rotation Patterns article).

      • After selecting a rotation, adjust the Pattern Offset (in days) by using the Fine-Tune tool to shift the start forward or backward. For example:

        • Offset "0": Starts on the chosen Start Date (e.g., 10/1).

        • Offset "-2": Starts 2 days later (e.g., 10/3).

        • Offset "3": Starts 3 days earlier, aligning shifts from 10/1 onward.

      • Use the Grid Preview to see working days (green) and regular days off (red). Adjust with arrows or reset to the current period using Back to Start.
        

11. Save and Review
    Once all settings are configured, save the Shift Series. Review the Grid to ensure it aligns with your scheduling goals.
     

Why Use Shift Series?

By mastering Shift Series, you can reduce manual scheduling time, maintain consistency with recurring patterns, and adapt quickly to your team’s unique needs. Whether it’s a simple weekly routine or a complex rotation, this feature empowers you to take control of your grid with confidence. Experiment with the options above to find the perfect fit for your workflow!