Staffing companies are often confronted with tedious tasks and logistic issues which cost them time and money. More and more staffing companies are turning to a software solution that will reduce the excessive costs of these overheads and streamline their processes. There are many companies who claim to be the best solution. Deciding between those companies can be very confusing. Here are some tips to consider when choosing healthcare staffing software:
1. Customer Support
A company is only as good as the customer service it provides. Customer Service is important because it is often the only contact a customer has with a company. Healthcare staffing companies in some ways can be very similar. Customer Service, however, can be a huge part in differentiating themselves from their competitors. Be sure you know how a company handles customer support issues and their response time.
2. Enhancements
Technology is ever changing. Making sure your staffing software is staying up to date with new technology is very important. Staying ahead of the curve for software companies is a must. Knowing that a company is adapting to the changing market is very important for the success of the product.
3. Integration
Critical to managing today’s staffing needs, is the ability to understand the complexity of the staffing industry. Knowing that a company is partnering with other products to better their own is a test of their willingness to be a true “All-in One” solution.
4. Customization
Every company is unique, and meeting 100% of a company’s requirements is next to impossible. Knowing up front if a software company is willing to work with you on a customization is an important part in deciding on a staffing solution.
5. Credentialing/Quality Assurance
Credentialing helps ensure professionals have the education, licenses, knowledge, and competence needed to perform their work. When looking for staffing software, credentialing of candidates is one of the most valuable services provided. Be sure the company you are researching has the ability to track information so you can be Joint Commission compliant. Not only will this create quality placements for your clients, but maintaining compliancy can mean saving yourself from heavy financial penalties.
6. Training
You are only going to know as much about a software package as you are trained. Having an understanding of the training process as well as the costs associated with training is crucial for your success with any software. Be sure you know up front what the training includes and the costs associated with it.
7. Accessibility
The ability to access information in real time from anywhere in the world can be very important to some businesses. If being able to communicate “on the go” is a must for you and your business, then have that conversation up front and stress its importance to your success. Ask for a web-based healthcare staffing software or in the cloud!
8. Scheduling
As hospitals and health care professionals struggle with a chronic shortage of nurses, having a dedicated scheduling strategy is crucial to the success of your business. Operating a nurse scheduler, as a company strategy, will streamline your entire business process. Be sure to have a detailed conversation on how their scheduling process is set up.
Finally, choose wisely. There are several companies who claim to be the best staffing software in the marketplace. The simplest is not always the best. Do your research and plan carefully. Find a few options to meet your requirements, and then refine the list. Keep the list in front of you so you don’t lose sight of your goals. Choose wisely, based on what you currently have versus what you would like to have and remember even if it takes time now, ultimately you will save money and time in the future.
