How to Build a Workforce Scheduling RFP for Banks & Credit Unions
(With Free Template)
If your bank or credit union is still managing workforce schedules with spreadsheets, legacy systems, or inflexible tools, you’re not alone, but you are falling behind.
In today’s climate of leaner branch staffing, changing customer traffic patterns, and increasing competition, effective workforce scheduling is no longer optional. It’s operationally critical.
Whether you’re replacing outdated systems or evaluating scheduling vendors for the first time, the Request for Proposal (RFP) is your best opportunity to clarify your needs, align stakeholders, and ensure you select the right solution.
Why a Strong RFP Matters
Too often, the buying process can be rushed, which can end up with workforce scheduling tools that don’t:
- Integrate with their core or CRM
- Account for compliance or union constraints
- Support real-time schedule optimization
- Scale across branch, call center, and back-office environments
A well-crafted RFP helps avoid these pitfalls and ensures vendors compete to meet your actual requirements not just show off flashy dashboards.
What to Include in Your Workforce Scheduling RFP
Pro Tip: Ask vendors to indicate whether each requirement is:
-
Out-of-the-box
-
Requires configuration
-
Not supported
Organizational Overview
- Institution size (employees, branches)
- Key scheduling pain points
- Goals for the new system (efficiency, CX, compliance, etc.)
Scope of Work
- Which roles/locations will be scheduled
- Time horizon (implementation deadlines)
- Expected integrations (HRIS, payroll, core, etc.)
Functional Requirements
- Forecasting and workload modeling
- Automated schedule generation
- Compliance rules (e.g., labor laws, union rules)
- Real-time adjustment and employee self-service
- Mobile accessibility
Workforce Scheduling
Other Considerations
Technical Requirements
- Cloud/on-prem deployment preferences
- Security standards (SOC 2, MFA, etc.)
- Integration options (API, SFTP, etc.)
Implementation & Support
- Timeline and onboarding approach
- Training materials and user adoption support
- Ongoing support and SLAs
Evaluation Criteria
Let vendors know how you’ll score their responses (e.g., functionality, cost, implementation time, experience with financial institutions).
Common RFP Pitfalls To Avoid
- Too generic: Don’t lack detail.
- Too rigid: Leave space for innovation, vendors may suggest smarter workflows you hadn’t considered.
- Forgetting stakeholders: Collaborate with HR and IT early.
Get Started
We’ve worked with banks and credit unions across the U.S. to streamline workforce scheduling and vendor selection. Click below to receive a free copy of our workforce scheduling RFP template today.