Initiating a Call Shift with a Multi-Rule Qualifier

Initiating a Call Shift with a Multi-Rule Qualifier

Purpose Statement

This feature allows administrators and supervisors to create call shifts using qualifiers that have multiple rule configurations. When a qualifier is associated with multiple rules, the system provides a dropdown selection to ensure the correct rule is applied for the specific call shift scenario. This enhances flexibility in managing different types of call shifts while maintaining proper rule enforcement and compliance.


Background Information

Multi-rule qualifiers are used when a single qualifier type needs to operate under different conditions or parameters. For example, a "Mandatory Overtime" qualifier might have different rules for regular operations versus emergency situations. This feature prevents confusion and ensures the appropriate rule is applied based on the specific circumstances of the call shift being initiated.

Common use cases include:

  • Emergency response qualifiers with varying response times
  • Overtime qualifiers with different compensation rules
  • Specialty team qualifiers with multiple certification requirements
Prerequisites:
  • User must have call shift creation permissions
  • Qualifiers with multiple rules must be pre-configured by administrators
  • Understanding of which rule applies to the intended call shift scenario

Required Permissions

  1. Access Scheduling 
  2. Access Call Shifts
  3. Initiate Call Shifts

Video



Step-by-Step Guide

Step 1: Access Call Shift Creation

Navigate to Scheduling > Call Shifts in the main navigation menu. Alternatively, you can initiate a call shift directly from the Shift Board interface for quicker access during active shift management.




Step 2: Create New Call Shift

Click the New Call Shift button to begin the call shift creation process. This will open the call shift configuration interface.




Step 3: Select Multi-Rule Qualifier

When you select a qualifier that is associated with multiple rules, a dropdown menu will automatically appear below the qualifier selection. This dropdown displays all available rules configured for the selected qualifier.




Step 4: Choose an Appropriate Rule

From the dropdown menu, select the qualifier rule that matches your specific call shift requirements. Each rule option will display its name and may include a brief description of its parameters.




Step 5: Complete Call Shift Setup

After selecting the appropriate rule, continue with the standard call shift creation process, including setting dates, times, personnel assignments, and any additional parameters as needed.




Best Practices

Do:

  • Review rules carefully before selecting to ensure proper application
  • Verify the selected rule aligns with your department's current operational status
  • Document which rules are used for different scenarios to maintain consistency
  • Test rule functionality in non-critical situations before using during emergencies

Don't:

  • Select rules without understanding their specific parameters and implications
  • Use emergency rules for routine call shifts unless genuinely required
Tips for Optimal Use:
  • Establish department guidelines for when each rule should be applied
  • Train supervisors on the differences between available rules for each qualifier
  • Consider creating quick reference guides for commonly used multi-rule qualifiers
  • Regularly review rule effectiveness and update configurations as needed

Troubleshooting & FAQs

  1. Q: The dropdown for rule selection doesn't appear when I select a qualifier. Why? 
    1. A: This indicates the qualifier only has one rule configured. The dropdown only appears for qualifiers with multiple rules. Contact your administrator if you believe multiple rules should be available.
  2. Q: Can I change the rule after creating the call shift? 
    1. A: Yes, you can edit the call shift and change the rule selection, but be aware this may affect personnel assignments and other parameters that depend on the specific rule configuration.
  3. Q: What happens if I select the wrong rule? 
    1. A: The call shift will operate under the parameters of the selected rule. If you notice an error, edit the call shift immediately to select the correct rule and verify all associated settings.
  4. Q: Who can configure the rules for multi-rule qualifiers? 
    1. A: Only users with administrative permissions can configure qualifier rules. Contact your system administrator if new rules need to be created or existing rules need modification.

Common Issues:

  • Rule dropdown appears empty: Verify the qualifier has properly configured rules and that you have permission to access them
  • Unable to proceed after rule selection: Ensure all required fields are completed and that the selected rule doesn't have additional prerequisites
  • Call shift behavior differs from expected: Confirm the correct rule was selected and review the rule's specific parameters


    • Related Articles

    • Creating a New Call Shift Rule

      Purpose To explain how to create a Call Shift Rule. Call Shift Rules determine how users will rotate on their Rankings Lists, as well as allow you to pre-build tiers for specific Call Shifts. Video Directions 1. Click on Scheduling > Setup. 2. Click ...
    • Call Shift Settings Overview

      Call Shift Settings Overview Purpose Statement The Call Shift Settings feature allows administrators to configure and customize how call shifts are managed within the scheduling module. This centralized configuration ensures consistent call shift ...
    • Initiating a Mandatory Force from the Shift Board

      Purpose Statement Guide Scheduling Admins on how to initiate a Mandatory Fill from the Shift Board to ensure critical shifts are staffed when voluntary responses are insufficient. Supports compliance with minimum staffing requirements and operational ...
    • Manually Adjusting Call Shift Rankings

      Purpose To explain how to manually adjust call shift rankings. Video Directions 1. Click on Scheduling> Call Shifts. 2. Click on Ranking. 3. This qualifier is set up to show a rotating or seniority based list. To manually adjust a individual, select ...
    • Call Shift Ranking Details

      Purpose To explain how to view individual Call Shift details on the rankings list. This allows you the ability to view all Call Shifts that have been sent to the individual, which ones they accepted or were awarded, and the details of the specific ...