Sona

“Flexible rota import and integration

Pros

I love that it can take our different rota formats and pull them right into the system. They keep working as usual, but are now much easier for the management team to access. It works consistently for the whole organization, even with different teams doing things their own way. I also like that we can easily ask for screens to show more or less detail. Best of all, the support team is always quick to help and never makes you feel like you're asking a silly question.

Cons

Initially pulling together our data was challenging, because you are starting from a blank slate. I would like to see a user management module added soon since, like any organisation, it would make everyday team administration much simpler and reduce the time spent on routine roster tasks across departments.

“Centralised, efficient roster management

Pros

Within our organisation, this solution has given us significantly better control and oversight of our rosters, removing the reliance on messy paper schedules covered in handwritten swap notes that used to dominate the noticeboards and cause confusion, now everything is centralised and much cleaner. Monthly rotas are generated from templates in just a few minutes which genuinely reduces administrative burden and frees up time for other priorities. Managers can publish available shifts via the platform so that staff receive immediate notifications on the app, eliminating the need for numerous phone calls to find cover and saving an enormous amount of manager time. Colleagues can check their shifts from anywhere at any time and because they are increasingly opting into advertised availabilities themselves we have already cut down on using costly agency workers and the elevated fees that come with them. I also value the 'Wellbeing' feature, where team members check in to tell us how they are feeling, because ensuring our people are happy in their roles is a priority for us, this functionality helps us monitor morale and we are hopeful it will lead to improved retention.

Cons

We currently don't have the ability to directly access or manage our staff details ourselves, as this tool handles staff management on our behalf, although they tend to process requests quickly, surrendering that direct control is not ideal. I am, however, aware that a 'Users Management' feature is expected to be released soon and I anticipate that once it is available it should largely resolve this limitation.

“Easy to navigate, minimal complexity

Pros

From our perspective, the software feels easy to navigate and avoids unnecessary complexity. We are able to manage and report on the items we require without the system becoming overwhelming for team members who use it daily. I appreciate that teams can provide feedback about how their shifts went and their wellbeing at work which prompts useful responses.

Cons

No issues! We are presently in the implementation phase. Thus far, I am impressed with this product.