Arbitrary scheduling refers to the practice of assigning work shifts or hours to temporary staff without a consistent or predetermined pattern. In other words, it’s scheduling that isn’t based on a structured plan or regular timeframe, which can create challenges for both staff and employers.
Arbitrary Scheduling can occur when employers need to fill shifts at the last minute or need flexibility due to changes in workload. While it can be useful in certain scenarios, it often creates uncertainty and disruption for employees who might rely on a more predictable schedule.
For temporary staffing, arbitrary scheduling can affect employee morale, retention, and work-life balance. While flexibility can be beneficial, unpredictable schedules can create stress for workers who may struggle to plan their personal lives around constantly changing shifts.
Employers should understand the risks of arbitrary scheduling and find a balance between flexibility and consistency to foster a positive work environment.
A retail store experiencing an unexpected surge in customer demand might need to call in additional temporary staff at short notice. These last-minute scheduling changes can disrupt the workers' lives, creating dissatisfaction or even absenteeism if the practice is too frequent.