Purpose Statement

The Predetermined Time Frames feature enables administrators to set up standard time blocks that employees can select when requesting time off. This feature streamlines the time-off request process by providing preset options that align with common leave periods, such as half-days, full shifts, or standard training blocks. By establishing these standardized time blocks, departments can simplify time-off management, ensure consistent coverage planning, and reduce errors in leave request submissions.

Background Information

1. Predetermined time frames are preset blocks of time for leave requests
   
2. Designed to match common time-off patterns (half-day, full shift, multi-day periods)
   
3. Employees select from standard options instead of manually entering times
   
4. Helps supervisors better manage coverage and staffing levels
   
5. Can be configured as mandatory options or allow custom requests
   

Required Permissions

1. Access Scheduling
   
2. Access Setup 

Video

Step-by-Step Guide

Turn On the Feature

1. Go to Scheduling > Setup 
   
2. Find and turn ON the Pre-Determined Time Frame toggle
   

Add Your Time Frames

1. Click Time Frame List 
   

1. Click Add Time Frame 
   

1. Enter a Name (like "Morning Half-Day" or "Full Shift")
   
2. Set your Start Time 
   
3. Set your End Time 
   
4. Click the Checkmark to save
   

Edit or Delete Time Frames

1. Click the pencil icon to edit a time frame
   
2. Click the trashcan icon to delete one
   
3. Click Cancel to close the list without saving changes
   

Allow Flexible Time-Off Requests (Optional)

1. Turn on Request outside Time Frames if employees need flexibility
   
2. This lets staff request time off outside your preset blocks
   
3. Leave it off to require all time-off requests use standard blocks
   

Best Practices

1. Create time frames that match your shift patterns (e.g., "24-Hour Shift", "12-Hour Day Shift")
   
2. Include common partial day options like "AM Half-Day (0600-1200)" or "PM Half-Day (1200-1800)"
   
3. Add frames for typical leave scenarios (medical appointments, training days)
   
4. Name frames clearly so employees know exactly what they're requesting
   
5. Review time frames annually to ensure they match current shift schedules
   
6. Consider peak staffing needs when setting available time blocks
   

Troubleshooting & FAQs

Q: I don't see the Pre-Determined Time Frame option. Where is it?
A: Check that you have admin permissions. If you still don't see it, contact your system administrator.

Q: Can employees request partial time off if we only have full-day blocks?
A: You'll need to create partial-day time frames or enable "Request outside Time Frames" for custom requests.

Q: What happens to pending time-off requests if I change a time frame?
A: Existing requests retain their original times. Only new requests will use the updated time frame.

Q: How do time frames work with different shift schedules?
A: Create multiple time frames to accommodate all shift types (day, night, 24-hour, etc.).

Q: Can I limit which time frames certain employees can use?
A: Time frames are typically available to all users. Use naming conventions to indicate intended use.