Workforce Management Trends | WFM | 2025

Workforce management (WFM) software is evolving rapidly in 2025 to meet the increasing demands of the modern working world. In terms of the shortage of skilled workers, the increasing importance of hybrid working models and the growing demand for flexible working conditions, companies are looking for innovative solutions to manage their employees effectively. What current trends can we expect to see in the field WFM software in 2025 and what opportunities are there for companies?

With its WFM Market Guide, Gartner^® has published a detailed trend analysis for future HR strategies and WFM applications. We have taken a closer look at some of these trends and summarized them here.

Contents

↓ What are the benefits of using AI?
↓ How does WFM support companies in implementing hybrid and flexible working time models?
↓ Why is WFM mobility becoming increasingly important for employees?
↓ How does modern WFM contribute to increasing employee engagement and satisfaction?

 

 

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What are the benefits of using AI?

1. The rise of AI in Workforce Management

One particularly notable trend is the increasing integration of Artificial Intelligence (AI) into WFM systems. AI has the potential to fundamentally change the way companies manage their workforce. From demand forecasting to scheduling, AI enables automation and optimization of processes that used to be time-consuming and sensitive to errors.

Demand forecasting and staff planning

AI-powered WFM software can analyze historical data, such as sales, weather and past staff availability, to provide accurate forecasts of future staffing needs. These forecasts help companies to avoid overstaffing or understaffing in the future and to deploy the right number of qualified staff in the right place at all times.

Optimization of shift schedules

Particularly in large companies with many employees, the creation of shift schedules used to be enormously complex and time-consuming. However, AI-supported WFM systems can now automatically create the optimal shift schedules that consider both the needs of the employees and the operational requirements. This not only leads to a better work-life balance for employees, but also optimizes customer service and increases operational efficiency.

Find out more at: https://plano-wfm.com/en/staffing-level-analysis/

 

 

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How does WFM support companies in implementing hybrid and flexible working time models?

2. Hybrid and flexible working models

Another important trend in WFM in 2025 is the increasing acceptance of hybrid and flexible working models. The past corona virus pandemic has shown that work in many industries can not only be done rigidly in the office but can also be done well remotely. Many companies – and the trend is rising – are already relying on hybrid working time models in which employees can work both in the office and from home.

WFM software plays a crucial role here because a software tool makes it a lot easier to plan and manage working hours. Systems with integrated self-service functions enable employees to record and adjust their working hours, swap shifts or apply for leave digitally without any major administrative effort for the company.

 

 

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Why is WFM mobility becoming increasingly important for employees?

3. Mobility and user-friendliness

With the increasing mobility of the employees, a responsive mobile access is also becoming more and more important for WFM systems. Employees no longer want to be limited to manage their working hours, shifts or vacation requests at their office or desktop station, but from any device and any location. Modern WFM software therefore offers mobile apps and user-friendly interfaces that enable employees to complete their tasks easily, efficiently and from anywhere.

Self-service employee portal 

Modern WFM systems should not only be user-friendly but are also designed to promote the independence and participation of employees. Employees want to view their shift schedules, booked working hours, vacation accounts and much more in real time and submit changes or requests directly via their mobile devices. The result: autonomy and co-determination will increase employee satisfaction while reducing the administrative tasks of HR departments.

Find out more at: https://plano-wfm.com/en/myplano-employee-self-service-ess/

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How does modern WFM contribute to increasing employee engagement and satisfaction?

4. Focus on employees

 As one of the most important resources, employees will increasingly become the focus of companies in the future. Retention and commitment are of crucial importance here and the foundation for greater satisfaction, productivity and good customer service. Modern WFM software is increasingly focused on promoting employee participation and engagement. Functions such as the option of self-scheduling or shift swaps allow employees to be involved in the planning process and have an active say – in favor of a good work-life balance.

Recommendations for companies

 Companies looking for a new WFM solution should take the following considerations into account in the decision-making process:

• Evaluate your specific needs: Before selecting a WFM application, analyze your specific needs and challenges. Consider factors such as company size, industry requirements and existing systems.
• Check user-friendliness: A user-friendly interface is crucial for the acceptance and effective use of the software by your employees.
• Check integration options: Ensure that the WFM solution can be seamlessly integrated with your existing systems to optimize the flow of information.

Conclusion

2025 will be all about digitalization and automation in WFM. The integration of AI, the promotion of hybrid working models, the importance of mobile accessibility and integration with other HR technologies are among others the key trends that will shape the future of the world of work. Companies that recognize these trends early on and integrate them into their WFM strategies will not only operate more efficiently in the future but will also be able to sustainably increase the satisfaction and commitment of their employees.

For more information on the latest WFM trends and specific recommendations on individual providers, have a look at the latest market guide by Gartner®. By following the future trends in WFM, companies can ensure that they find the best solution for their individual needs and successfully develop their HR strategies.

Get free access to the Market Guide for Workforce Management Applications from Gartner^® here.

https://plano-wfm.com/en/gartner-market-guide-workforce-management/

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Further information about our workforce management software and the areas of application can be found here:

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