Preferred Availability in S4 Connect

What Is Availability?

Availability allows employees to indicate when they are able or unable to work. Managers use this information to understand staffing preferences when planning rotas. Availability does not guarantee that employees will be scheduled at those times, but it provides clear guidance that supports fair and accurate rota creation.

Key Points

• Employees record their availability directly in the S4 Connect app.

• Availability shows preferred or not preferred working times, not confirmed absences and shifts.

• Managers can view submitted availability in S4labour when planning rotas.

• Changes take effect immediately once saved in the app.

• Availability operates separately from absence requests such as holidays or sickness.

How to Use Availability

Adding an Availability Preference

1. Open the S4 Connect app, 

2. Tap 'Rota' from the main navigation

   

3. Tap 'Availability' from the top navigation bar

   

4. Select "Add New" to add a new availability schedule

   

5. Fill in the My Preferred Availability page with the day of the week, Time From and Time To, the date range, whether this is a preferred time to work or not to work and a reason.

   

6. Tap 'Save' or 'Cancel' to save or discard your changes.

Once saved, your availability updates are visible to managers when they build future rotas.

Tip: Keep your availability accurate and up to date to help your manager schedule you more effectively.

Editing an Availability Preference

1. Open the S4 Connect app, go to Rota page and the Availability tile.

2. Tap an existing preference

   

3. Adjust your availability

   

4. Tap 'Update Changes' to save your changes, alternatively if you wish to remove your preference tap 'Remove preference'

Tip: Review your preferences regularly to ensure the correct shifts are available to you.

Why Use Availability?

• Supports accurate rota planning: Managers can schedule shifts that align with employee preferences where possible.

• Improves communication: Clear availability reduces misunderstandings and manual follow-up.

• Saves time: Employees can update their availability without contacting a manager.

• Enhances fairness: Teams benefit from transparent and consistent availability information.

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Frequently Asked Questions

Q: Does availability guarantee my schedule?
A: No. Managers consider availability when planning rotas but may still schedule shifts outside preferred times if required.

Q: How far in advance can I update my availability?
A: You can update it at any time, and changes apply immediately.

Q: Can managers edit my availability?
A: Managers can view availability but cannot change it. 

Q: Is availability the same as requesting time off?
A: No. Use the absence request feature for holidays or other time away.

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Need Help?

For activation, configuration questions, or further support, contact Support or Customer Success through your usual support channel.