Purpose Statement

The Tiebreaker Builder defines how the system determines priority order when multiple personnel meet the same eligibility criteria for a shift. It ensures consistent, predictable, and configurable ranking when ties occur during scheduling decisions.

Background Information

The Tiebreaker Builder is part of the Scheduling module and is configured within Call Shift Rules. It is used when hours-based rules result in ties between personnel. Administrators can define ranked priorities, select optional user-defined fields, and control how ties are resolved using additional criteria such as hire date, rank, or alphabetical order.

Required Permissions

• Scheduling – Access Scheduling

• Scheduling – Access Setup

Video

Step-by-Step Guide

Access the Tiebreaker Builder

1. Navigate to Scheduling
2. Select Setup
   

1. Open Call Shift Rules
   

1. Edit an existing rule or create a new rule
   

Locate the Tiebreaker Section

1. Scroll to the Hours-Based section of the rule
2. Find the Tiebreaker Order
   

1. Select the Tiebreaker Order
2. Define the ranked priority for how ties should be resolved
3. Choose from available options such as:
1. Date of Hire (default)
2. Alphabetical order
3. Last Date Worked
4. Rank
   

Configure User-Defined Fields (Optional)

1. Select optional user-defined field.
1. Secondary Start Date. This can be considered Time in Rank when promoted
2. These fields are used when personnel share the same primary criteria
   

Reorder Rank (If Applicable)

1. Select Reorder Rank
   

1. Adjust rank order as needed to match department policy
2. Save rank changes when complete
   

1. Click Save within the Tie Breaker Builder as well as the Call Shift Rule
   

Best Practices

1. Define multiple tiebreakers to handle identical hire dates and ranks
2. Review rank order regularly to ensure accuracy
3. Use user-defined fields only when they are consistently maintained
4. Align tiebreaker logic with labor agreements and department policy

Troubleshooting & FAQs

Q: Why are ties still occurring after configuring a tiebreaker?
A: Ensure multiple tiebreaker levels are configured and that required data (hire date, rank, user-defined fields) exists for all personnel.

Q: I don’t see user-defined fields as options. Why?
A: User-defined fields must be enabled and populated in Personnel records to appear as tiebreaker options.

Q: Does changing rank order affect historical shifts?
A: No. Changes only apply to future scheduling decisions using that rule.