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Quickstart Guide
Get started with Rostery in just a few steps!
Install the Rostery Add-in
Open Excel and go to Insert > Get Add-ins. Search for 'Rostery' and click 'Add' to install.
Screenshot of add-in installation placeholder
Generate a Schedule Template
In the Rostery taskpane, click 'Configure & Generate Template'. Set your schedule parameters (days, staff, shifts).
Optional: Personalize the Template
You can edit staff names, shift names, and day labels in the areas shown below. These changes won't affect the optimization and can be personalized for your needs.
WARNING
Do not add, remove, or move rows, columns, or formulas in the template. These modifications will break the functionality of the optimizer. Generate a new template with the appropriate parameters instead.
Mark Availability and Preferences
In the generated template, enter 'X' for unavailable shifts, 'P' for preferred shifts, and 'A' for user fixed assignments.
Set Staff Requirements
Enter the number of staff needed for each shift in the blue cells below the main schedule table.
Finally set constraints such as maximum number of shifts a staff member can be assigned in a day in the configuration area below the table:
Run the AI Scheduler
Click 'Create Schedule' to generate an intelligent schedule based on your inputs.
Iterate!
Rostery is designed for iteration. Along with the scheduling results you will get diagnostics about your schedule:
After reviewing them, you can:
- Keep parts you like by marking them with "A" (these user fixed assignments won't change in future schedules)
- Add new preferences with "P" where you want changes
- Review the diagnostic information to see how well your requirements were met
- Identify areas with staffing issues or overworked employees
- Run the AI scheduler again to refine your schedule
This iterative approach lets you gradually build your ideal schedule, combining the power of automation with your expertise. The diagnostics feature highlights areas that need improvement, making it easier to focus your refinements.