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20 Best Call Center Workforce Management Software Shortlist

Here's my pick of the 20 best software from the 24 tools reviewed.

Call center workforce management software helps you plan staffing, forecast demand, and stay ahead of service-level targets. These tools are built to balance efficiency and customer experience, by making it easier to manage schedules, monitor performance, and adapt to real-time call volumes without burning out your agents.

I've tested and reviewed these platforms based on forecasting accuracy, scheduling tools, and usability. This guide breaks down the best call center workforce management solutions, so you can find one that fits your contact volume, support model, and team size.

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The Best Call Center Workforce Management Software: Pricing Comparison Chart

This comparison chart summarizes basic details about each of my top call center workforce management software selections. You can view pricing details and the availability of free trials or demos side-by-side to help you find the best software for your budget and business needs.

Overviews of the 20 Best Call Center Workforce Management Software

Here’s a brief description of each call center workforce management software that showcases the tool’s best use case, their noteworthy features, and some pros and cons. I’ve also included screenshots to give you a snapshot of their user interface too.

Best for real-time workforce activity insights

  • 7-day free trial
  • From $6.40/user/month (billed annually)
Visit Website
Rating: 4.8/5

Insightful is a workforce management software designed to help you track productivity, monitor employee activity, and manage attendance across call center teams. It offers real-time visibility into what your agents are working on, making it easier to adapt to changing conditions and optimize performance.

Why I picked Insightful: I chose Insightful for its ability to provide real-time activity insights—essential in a call center environment where swift responses matter. You can see agent activity as it happens, allowing you to address bottlenecks or reallocate tasks quickly. I also appreciate its attendance management tools, which help ensure coverage without the need for constant check-ins. Combined with detailed time tracking, these features give you the data needed to balance workloads and make informed staffing decisions.

Standout features & integrations:

Features include computer and screen monitoring, giving you a clear view of device use during work hours. Automatic time mapping categorizes tasks throughout the day for accurate reporting. AI-powered analytics help forecast call volumes and identify productivity trends, while insider threat detection adds a layer of security.

Integrations are possible through the Insightful developer portal and Insightful API.

Pros and cons

Pros:

  • Easy to mark unproductive apps
  • Light on system resources
  • Works quietly in the background

Cons:

  • More integration options needed
  • Limited number of screenshots

Best for WFM solutions as an add-on

  • Free trial available
  • From $24.99/user/month
Visit Website
Rating: 5/5

RingCentral Contact Center is a customizable solution for larger businesses with complex needs, focusing on customer interaction management across various channels. It's designed for teams looking to enhance collaboration and improve efficiency through advanced routing and workforce management tools.

Why I picked RingCentral Contact Center: It offers AI-driven features that support global team collaboration, such as omnichannel routing and virtual agents. These tools help your team manage customer interactions seamlessly across different platforms. The service is customizable, allowing you to tailor it to your specific business requirements. Its integration capabilities ensure that your team can work efficiently with existing CRMs and applications.

Standout features & integrations:

Features include omnichannel routing, which allows you to manage customer interactions across various channels. AI-powered virtual agents provide automated support, freeing up your team for more complex tasks. Actionable insights give you data-driven recommendations to improve customer service.

Integrations include Salesforce, Microsoft Teams, Zendesk, ServiceNow, Google Workspace, Microsoft 365, Oracle, SAP, SugarCRM, and HubSpot.

Pros and cons

Pros:

  • Can connect with any device
  • Workforce engagement tools
  • Powerful customer service platform

Cons:

  • Limited self-service options
  • Workforce management is not the priority

Best for omni-channel support

  • Free trial + free demo available
  • From $25/user/month (billed annually)
Visit Website
Rating: 4.4/5

Salesforce Service Cloud is a customer service platform designed for businesses of all sizes, focusing on enhancing customer support through integrated CRM capabilities. It helps your team provide personalized service by leveraging customer data and automating workflows.

Why I picked Salesforce Service Cloud: It excels in CRM integration, making it easy for your team to access and utilize customer information. Features like case management and service analytics offer valuable insights into customer interactions. The platform's automation tools streamline repetitive tasks, allowing your team to focus on complex issues. Its scalability ensures it grows with your business needs.

Standout features & integrations:

Features include case management, which organizes and tracks customer interactions. Service analytics provides insights into performance and customer satisfaction. Automation tools help your team manage repetitive tasks efficiently.

Integrations include Slack, Microsoft Teams, Google Workspace, QuickBooks, Mailchimp, Dropbox, DocuSign, HubSpot, SAP, and Zendesk.

Pros and cons

Pros:

  • Provides unified information storage
  • Offers good customer support services
  • Easy-to-use interface

Cons:

  • Limited customization options
  • Steep learning curve for new users

Best for skill-based task organization

  • 14-day free trial
  • From $49/user/month
Visit Website
Rating: 4.3/5

Zendesk is a customer service platform that also offers workforce management capabilities for call centers. It’s designed to help you plan, schedule, and monitor your team’s activities while ensuring the right agents handle the right tasks based on skills and availability.

Why I picked Zendesk: I chose Zendesk for its ability to pair traditional customer service tools with built-in workforce management functions. It supports forecasting and scheduling using historical data, making it easier to maintain adequate coverage during peak times. You can also segment work according to agent expertise, helping improve both efficiency and service quality. Real-time monitoring means you can make quick adjustments to keep performance on track.

Standout features & integrations:

Features include workforce planning and scheduling tools, skill-based work segmentation, and real-time performance monitoring. Agent usability tools let team members manage their schedules, request time off, and view performance metrics in one place.

Integrations include Google Sheets, Gmail, Salesforce, Slack, Microsoft Teams, Jira, Shopify, Hootsuite, Mailchimp, PandaDoc, Nicereply, and TypeGenie.

Pros and cons

Pros:

  • Comprehensive integration marketplace
  • Strong skill-based task assignment options
  • Combines customer service and WFM in one platform

Cons:

  • Some WFM features require additional setup and configuration
  • May be more complex than needed for small teams

Best for integrated call center and customer service solutions

  • 14-day free trial
  • From $19/user/month (billed annually)
Visit Website
Rating: 4.4/5

CloudTalk is a cloud-based call center solution designed for small to medium-sized businesses, focusing on enhancing communication and customer service. It provides a range of features that support efficient call handling and customer interaction management.

Why I picked CloudTalk: It caters specifically to small and medium teams, offering a straightforward setup and user-friendly interface. Features like call queuing and smart routing help your team manage calls effectively. Its analytics tools provide insights into call performance and customer satisfaction. The scalable pricing plans make it an accessible option for growing businesses.

Standout features & integrations:

Features include call queuing, which manages incoming calls efficiently. Smart routing ensures calls are directed to the right agent quickly. Analytics tools give you insights into call performance, helping you improve customer service.

Integrations include Pipedrive, HubSpot, Zendesk, Intercom, Shopify, Freshdesk, Help Scout, Slack, Microsoft Teams, and Google Contacts.

Pros and cons

Pros:

  • Customer-focused tools
  • User-friendly interface
  • Granular agent performance details

Cons:

  • Dashboard needs better visibility
  • Not all phone numbers generated are valid

Best for agent-focused workforce management

  • Free demo available
  • From $85/user/month
Visit Website
Rating: 4.4/5

Talkdesk is a cloud-based contact center software designed for businesses looking to improve customer interactions through advanced analytics and automation. Its main user base includes medium to large enterprises seeking to enhance customer service efficiency.

Why I picked Talkdesk: It offers AI-driven insights that help your team make data-informed decisions. Features like sentiment analysis and predictive analytics provide valuable feedback on customer interactions. The platform's automation capabilities reduce manual tasks, allowing your team to focus on complex issues. Its scalability ensures it can meet the demands of growing businesses.

Standout features & integrations:

Features include sentiment analysis, which evaluates customer emotions during interactions. Predictive analytics anticipate customer needs and improve service delivery. Automation tools streamline repetitive tasks, freeing up your team's time.

Integrations include Salesforce, Microsoft Dynamics, Zendesk, Slack, HubSpot, Shopify, ServiceNow, Google Workspace, Microsoft Teams, and Zoho CRM.

Pros and cons

Pros:

  • Customizable metrics on dashboard
  • Easy to track users
  • Straightforward, simple UI

Cons:

  • Delays in ticket generation
  • Occasional bugs

Best for AI-powered call center management

  • Free demo available
  • From $25/user/month (billed annually)
Visit Website
Rating: 4.4/5

Nextiva is a cloud-based business communication platform designed for companies seeking to integrate their communication channels into a single system. It is ideal for businesses of all sizes, providing tools to manage calls, video conferencing, and team collaboration.

Why I picked Nextiva: It excels in unified communication, offering a platform where your team can manage all interactions in one place. Features like video conferencing and team chat foster collaboration among your team members. The platform provides call analytics that give insights into communication efficiency. Its user-friendly interface makes it accessible for teams with varying technical expertise.

Standout features & integrations:

Features include call analytics, which provide insights into communication patterns. Video conferencing supports remote meetings and team collaboration. Team chat allows for instant messaging and quick communication among team members.

Integrations include Salesforce, HubSpot, Zendesk, Microsoft Teams, Google Workspace, Slack, ServiceNow, Oracle, Zoho CRM, and Outlook.

Pros and cons

Pros:

  • In-platform team communication tools
  • AI features to help automate routine tasks
  • Reporting and analytics for call center performance

Cons:

  • Initial setup may take time
  • Some key integrations aren't available on lower-tier plans

Best for workforce engagement tools

  • Free demo available
  • Pricing upon request
Visit Website
Rating: 4.8/5

Call Center Studio is a cloud-native contact center software that boosts workforce management and customer engagement for businesses of all sizes. Designed to offer comprehensive solutions, it includes features like inbound and outbound contact capabilities, workforce engagement tools, and automated customer service options.

Why I Picked Call Center Studio:

One reason I chose Call Center Studio as a top pick for call center workforce management software is its Workforce Engagement Platform. This platform includes performance management, quality management, and agent coaching tools that help optimize workforce efficiency and improve service quality. Advanced analytics provide insights into customer experiences, supporting data-driven decision-making.

Another compelling reason is its support for omni-channel communication. Call Center Studio allows businesses to interact with customers through multiple channels like messaging, email, and live chat. This flexibility ensures customer satisfaction and a consistent experience across platforms. Additionally, the integration of AI tools automates customer interactions, enhancing operational flow.

Standout Features & Integrations:

Features include intelligent call distribution that manages inbound and outbound calls, ensuring quick connections between customers and suitable agents. The platform also excels in AI-driven omnichannel communication, managing various customer interaction channels on a single platform, which boosts operational efficiency. Call Center Studio offers robust reporting and performance tracking tools, providing real-time data and metrics for effective performance monitoring.

Integrations include WhatsApp, Messenger, Telegram, Email, SMS, Zendesk, Salesforce, Oracle, Dialogflow, Freshdesk, Hubspot, and Instagram Messenger.

Pros and cons

Pros:

  • Responsive support and implementation help
  • Flexible deployment: cloud, SaaS options
  • Strong reporting and analytics capabilities

Cons:

  • Forecasting sometimes less precise under heavy load
  • Occasional UI complexity for non-technical users

Best for virtual and mobile contact center support

  • Free demo available
  • Pricing upon request
Visit Website
Rating: 4.3/5

Ameyo is a call center software solution designed for businesses focused on improving customer engagement and experience. It serves a wide range of industries by offering tools for managing customer interactions and enhancing service delivery.

Why I picked Ameyo: It excels in customer engagement, providing features that help your team interact effectively with clients. The platform offers tools like omnichannel support and customer journey mapping, which are crucial for maintaining high customer satisfaction. Its flexible deployment options ensure that it can adapt to your business needs. The customization capabilities allow you to tailor the software to fit your specific requirements.

Standout features & integrations:

Features include omnichannel support, which lets your team manage interactions across multiple channels. Customer journey mapping helps you understand and enhance the customer experience. Real-time analytics provide insights that aid in decision-making and strategy planning.

Integrations include Salesforce, Microsoft Dynamics, Zendesk, Freshdesk, SugarCRM, Oracle, SAP, ServiceNow, HubSpot, and Zoho CRM.

Pros and cons

Pros:

  • Control over agent breaks, campaigns, and activities
  • No training needed
  • Straightforward, user-friendly tools

Cons:

  • Call recordings are deleted after 30 days
  • Report generation is complex

Best automated, intelligence-driven workforce management solution

  • Free demo available
  • From $119/user/month
Visit Website
Rating: 4.1/5

Five9 is a cloud-based contact center software aimed at businesses looking to scale their customer service operations efficiently. It serves companies of all sizes by providing tools to manage customer interactions across various channels.

Why I picked Five9: It offers scalable solutions that grow with your business needs. The platform provides tools like predictive dialing and call routing, which enhance efficiency and customer satisfaction. Its comprehensive reporting features give you insights into performance metrics. The flexibility of deployment options ensures it fits different business models and requirements.

Standout features & integrations:

Features include predictive dialing, which optimizes the call process by connecting agents only when a customer answers. Call routing ensures that calls reach the right agent quickly, improving customer experience. Comprehensive reporting tools provide insights into various metrics, helping you make informed decisions.

Integrations include Salesforce, Zendesk, Microsoft Dynamics, Oracle, NetSuite, ServiceNow, Outlook, HubSpot, SugarCRM, and Zoho CRM.

Pros and cons

Pros:

  • Very user friendly functionality
  • Straightforward to learn and use
  • Real-time manager guidance capabilities

Cons:

  • Complex reporting requires an integration
  • Some reports have long load times

Best for HR automation and collaboration

  • Free plan available
  • From $99/month (billed annually)
Visit Website
Rating: 4.1/5

Bitrix24 is a versatile business management software that caters to small and medium-sized businesses. It offers tools for communication, project management, and customer service, all in one platform.

Why I picked Bitrix24: The free tier option makes it accessible for small teams looking to manage their operations without a large budget. It provides features like task management and customer relationship management, which are essential for organizing workflows. The built-in communication tools allow your team to collaborate effectively. The platform's flexibility in offering both cloud and on-premise solutions caters to different business needs.

Standout features & integrations:

Features include task management, which helps your team stay on top of daily activities. Customer relationship management provides tools to track and manage customer interactions. Built-in communication tools support team collaboration and information sharing.

Integrations include Mailchimp, Google Drive, Dropbox, Slack, Microsoft Office 365, Zoom, QuickBooks, Xero, Zapier, and Asana.

Pros and cons

Pros:

  • Most features are available for free
  • Simple automations and customization
  • Complete online communication from anywhere

Cons:

  • Switching plans can result in locked data
  • Premium price point

Best for precise staffing and scheduling

  • Free demo available
  • Pricing upon request

Playvox is a workforce management solution specifically designed for call centers, focusing on enhancing agent satisfaction and service quality. It offers tools that help manage and optimize your team's performance, making it a valuable asset for any call center operation. It is now part of the NiCE ecosystem.

Why I Picked Playvox: I chose Playvox because of its workforce management features that allow precise staffing and scheduling. This ensures that you have the right number of agents at the right times, which can lead to better service levels and happier customers. Another reason is its quality management tools, which help maintain and improve service standards by giving you the ability to assess and enhance your team's performance continuously.

In addition, Playvox offers performance management tools that help track essential KPIs. This enables you to monitor your team's performance and make data-driven decisions to improve efficiency. Plus, its support for remote workforce solutions means you can manage your team effectively, regardless of their location.

Standout Features & Integrations:

Features include real-time AI-driven insights that help you make informed decisions quickly. The platform also supports a people-first approach, focusing on agent satisfaction and well-being. Additionally, it offers customizable tools that adapt to your specific business needs, providing flexibility and scalability for your operations.

Integrations include Zendesk, Freshdesk, Salesforce, CloudTalk, LiveChat, Intercom, ServiceNow, Dataddo, Workday, Five9, ADP, and Gladly.

Pros and cons

Pros:

  • Intuitive scheduling with AI forecasting
  • Unified visibility across all support channels
  • Strong QA, coaching, and performance tools

Cons:

  • Limited custom reports
  • Gaps in scheduling flexibility or PTO views

Best for omnichannel customer engagement

  • Free demo available
  • Pricing upon request

MaxContact is a call center software solution that enhances customer engagement with its diverse features and integrations. It provides a comprehensive platform for managing customer interactions across multiple channels.

Why I Picked MaxContact: I picked MaxContact because it offers essential features for call center workforce management. Automated dialing helps your team manage outbound calls better, ensuring agents spend more time speaking to customers instead of manually dialing numbers. The skill-based routing feature ensures calls go to the right agents based on their expertise, improving customer satisfaction and agent productivity.

Another reason MaxContact stands out is its AI-driven speech analytics. This feature provides valuable insights into customer interactions, helping your team identify areas for improvement and training. With these insights, you can tailor your approach to better meet customer needs and enhance overall service quality.

Standout Features & Integrations:

Features include omnichannel engagement, which lets your team handle customer interactions across platforms like voice, SMS, and email, ensuring a consistent experience. The platform also offers AI agents for routine inquiries, freeing up human agents for more complex issues. MaxContact provides unified communications, bringing all channels into a single interface, making it easier for your team to manage interactions and improve response times.

Integrations include Zapier, Zoho, HubSpot, Orca, Salesforce, OMS, Freshworks, AutoConvert, and Engage Hub.

Pros and cons

Pros:

  • Automated alerts for performance deviations
  • Real-time agent adherence and analytics
  • Comprehensive scheduling and shift optimization

Cons:

  • Learning curve for advanced forecasting features
  • Limited flexibility in rule customization

Best for facilities planning

  • Pricing upon request

PanTerra Networks is a unified communication and collaboration platform designed for businesses seeking to integrate their communication channels. It serves companies of all sizes by providing tools for voice, video, and data collaboration.

Why I picked PanTerra Networks: The platform provides real-time analytics that help your team make informed decisions quickly. Features like live call monitoring and detailed reporting enhance your ability to oversee call center operations. The platform's scalability ensures it can grow with your business needs. Its integrated communication tools allow your team to collaborate effectively in one place.

Standout features & integrations:

Features include live call monitoring, which allows you to oversee and manage calls as they happen. Detailed reporting provides insights into performance metrics and operational efficiency. The platform also offers unified communication tools that integrate voice, video, and messaging in one system.

Integrations include Salesforce, Microsoft Dynamics, Slack, Zendesk, Google Workspace, Microsoft Teams, ServiceNow, HubSpot, Dropbox, and Box.

Pros and cons

Pros:

  • Fast operating speed
  • Intuitive exploration of features
  • Granular management control

Cons:

  • Training support is a separate subscription
  • Steep learning curve

Best for versatile workforces with mobile, remote, and hybrid management capabilities

  • Free demo available, free limited version available
  • From $24.95/month

Cisco Unified Contact Center Express is a contact center solution tailored for small to medium-sized businesses looking to enhance their customer service operations. It provides tools for call management, routing, and customer interaction tracking.

Why I picked Cisco Unified Contact Center Express: It offers secure operations, ensuring that your team's data is protected while managing customer interactions. The platform's call routing and management features enhance efficiency in handling customer queries. Real-time reporting provides insights into performance and helps in decision-making. Its flexibility allows customization to fit your business's unique needs.

Standout features & integrations:

Features include call recording, which helps in maintaining quality and compliance standards. Real-time reporting provides insights into performance metrics, aiding in strategic planning. The platform also offers interactive voice response (IVR) to automate customer interactions efficiently.

Integrations include Salesforce, Microsoft Dynamics, ServiceNow, Oracle, SAP, Google Workspace, Microsoft Teams, Zendesk, Slack, and Zoom.

Pros and cons

Pros:

  • Dashboard for instant insights
  • Remote work capabilities
  • Works with all devices

Cons:

  • Cumbersome comments feature
  • Multi-language pronunciation is imperfect

Best for integrating with all your essential third-party tools

  • Free trial available
  • From $40/user/month

ZIWO is a cloud-based call center software specifically designed for businesses operating in the Middle East. It provides tools for managing customer interactions and enhancing communication across various channels.

Why I picked ZIWO: It offers tailored support for businesses in the Middle East, making it ideal for teams in this region. Features such as local phone number access and multi-language support cater to regional needs. The platform's real-time dashboard gives insights into customer interactions, helping your team make informed decisions. Its call recording feature ensures quality management and compliance.

Standout features & integrations:

Features include local phone number access, which facilitates regional communication. Multi-language support allows your team to interact with customers in various languages. The real-time dashboard provides insights into performance and customer interactions.

Integrations include Salesforce, Microsoft Dynamics, Zendesk, Zoho CRM, Freshdesk, Slack, HubSpot, Shopify, WhatsApp, and Google Workspace.

Pros and cons

Pros:

  • Self-improvement tools
  • Easy to use for self-monitoring
  • Automatic country detection

Cons:

  • No downloadable desktop version
  • Difficult to manipulate the analytics

Best for workforce optimization

  • Free demo available
  • Pricing upon request

Alvaria Workforce is a workforce management solution designed for organizations that prioritize compliance and operational efficiency. It serves businesses of all sizes by offering tools for scheduling, forecasting, and managing contact center operations.

Why I picked Alvaria Workforce: The platform emphasizes compliance, ensuring that your team adheres to industry regulations while managing workforce operations. Features like automated scheduling and real-time adherence tracking help maintain productivity. The forecasting tools provide insights into future staffing needs, aiding in strategic planning. Its customization options allow you to tailor the system to meet specific business requirements.

Standout features & integrations:

Features include automated scheduling, which optimizes workforce allocation and reduces manual efforts. Real-time adherence tracking helps your team stay on schedule and meet productivity goals. The platform also offers detailed forecasting tools that assist in predicting staffing needs and adjusting plans accordingly.

Integrations include Salesforce, Oracle, SAP, Microsoft Dynamics, ServiceNow, Zendesk, Google Workspace, Microsoft Teams, Slack, and Zoom.

Pros and cons

Pros:

  • Easy operation and maintenance
  • Low barrier for entry
  • User training manuals

Cons:

  • One of the more expensive tools
  • Installation takes time

Best for attracting, nurturing, and retaining quality staff

  • Free demo available
  • From $75/user/month (billed annually)

Genesys Cloud CX is a customer experience platform designed for businesses aiming to enhance their interaction capabilities across multiple channels. It caters to medium to large enterprises by providing tools for managing customer interactions and improving service delivery.

Why I picked Genesys Cloud CX: It excels in omnichannel support, allowing your team to manage customer interactions seamlessly across voice, chat, email, and social media. The platform provides real-time dashboards that give insights into customer interactions. Its flexible deployment options make it adaptable to different business needs. The scalability ensures it can grow with your business, meeting increasing demands.

Standout features & integrations:

Features include real-time dashboards, which provide visual insights into customer interactions and performance metrics. Workforce management tools help optimize staffing and scheduling. The platform also offers call recording and quality management to maintain high service standards.

Integrations include Salesforce, Microsoft Teams, Zendesk, ServiceNow, Oracle, SAP, HubSpot, Google Workspace, Slack, and Zoom.

Pros and cons

Pros:

  • Constantly improving features
  • Web-based management
  • Onboarding process is simple

Cons:

  • Chat is not PCI compliant
  • Slight latency in real-time displays

Best for call center and help desk in one

  • 30-day free trial
  • From $9/agent/month (billed annually)
Visit Website
Rating: 4.5/5

LiveAgent is a multi-channel help desk software that helps customer support teams manage their tickets and streamline their operations. It has full call center functionality and can handle email and chat support operations as well.

Why I picked LiveAgent: As tickets stream into the software, they're auto-assigned to the right agent to ensure a timely and helpful response. The system's shared inbox gives teams a visual overview of all ongoing support requests, whether they're being handled by phone, email, or live chat. Smart spam filtering and automated responses can also be set up in the software, helping to save your team time on manual repetitive work.

In addition to its call center and help desk capabilities, the software can be used to build and manage a self-serve knowledge base for your customers. Having support documentation available and accessible right in your help desk makes it that much easier to send relevant documents and articles out to customers in real-time while agents are on the phone with them. You can even set up forums for customers to exchange among themselves and help each other out with best practices and troubleshooting.

LiveAgent Standout Features & Integrations

Features include two-way calling, call routing, call recording, automated ticket assignment, multilingual live chat, customer forums, content management, customizable knowledge base themes, and a WYSIWYG content editor.

Integrations include ActiveCampaign, BigCommerce, Clockify, Cloudtalk, Gmail, Jira, Magento, Pipedrive, Shopify, Slack, Trello, Twilio, and Webflow.

Pros and cons

Pros:

  • Simple setup and speedy implementation
  • 24/7 customer support available
  • High security standards and data protection

Cons:

  • Not all teams will benefit from full feature set
  • Additional cost for social media tools

Best for efficient call routing

  • 7-day free trial available
  • From $19/user/month + $5/additional user
Visit Website
Rating: 4.4/5

TalkRoute is a virtual phone system designed to unify your business communications. It enables you to make and receive calls using your existing devices, ensuring flexibility and mobility. Beyond voice calls, Talkroute supports text messaging and video meetings, offering a comprehensive communication solution for businesses.

Why I picked TalkRoute: One compelling feature of Talkroute is its call stacking capability. This ensures that multiple incoming calls are handled simultaneously, so your callers never encounter a busy signal. For a call center, this means improved customer satisfaction and reduced wait times. Another valuable aspect is the customizable call menus. You can set up multi-level auto-attendants to guide callers to the appropriate department or team member, making for more efficient call routing.

Standout features & integrations:

Features include call forwarding, text messaging, video meetings, desktop and mobile apps, live call transfer, custom greetings, hours of operation settings, user permissions, caller ID customization, detailed reporting, music on hold, and voicemail transcription.

Integrations include Zapier, enabling connections with thousands of applications.

Pros and cons

Pros:

  • Integrates well with existing operations and allows use of existing cell phones
  • Affordable service, especially for small businesses
  • Consistent call quality and reliability

Cons:

  • Additional costs for extra phone numbers and users
  • Some users may want more sophisticated functionalities

Other Options

Here are a few more worthwhile options that didn’t make the best call center workforce management software list:

  1. UniVoIP

    Software for transitioning to remote, flexible workflows

  2. Sharpen

    Agent-centric approach to staffing with simplified queue interactions

  3. Sales Sling

    Lead-focused call center workforce management software

  4. Avaya Experience Platform

    For managing interactions from multiple channels

Call Center Workforce Management Software Selection Criteria

When selecting the best call center workforce management software to include in this list, I considered common buyer needs and pain points like scheduling efficiency and compliance with industry regulations. I also used the following framework to keep my evaluation structured and fair:

Core Capabilities of WFM Solutions (25% of total score)
To be considered for inclusion in this list, each solution had to fulfill these common use cases:

  • Forecasting and scheduling
  • Real-time monitoring
  • Performance analytics
  • Call routing and distribution
  • Compliance management

Additional Standout Features (25% of total score)
To help further narrow down the competition, I also looked for unique features, such as:

  • AI-driven insights
  • Omnichannel communication support
  • Customizable dashboards
  • Gamification elements
  • Advanced reporting capabilities

Usability (10% of total score)
To get a sense of the usability of each system, I considered the following:

  • Intuitive interface design
  • Ease of navigation
  • Customization options
  • Learning curve
  • Mobile accessibility

Onboarding (10% of total score)
To evaluate the onboarding experience for each platform, I considered the following:

  • Availability of training videos
  • Interactive product tours
  • Access to webinars
  • Ease of data migration
  • Customer onboarding support

Customer Support (10% of total score)
To assess each software provider’s customer support services, I considered the following:

  • Availability of live chat support
  • Response time for inquiries
  • Access to a knowledge base
  • Availability of phone support
  • Community forums

Value For Money (10% of total score)
To evaluate the value for money of each platform, I considered the following:

  • Competitive pricing
  • Feature set offered
  • Scalability of pricing plans
  • Availability of free trials
  • Cost versus benefits

Customer Reviews (10% of total score)
To get a sense of overall customer satisfaction, I considered the following when reading customer reviews:

  • Feedback on reliability
  • Overall satisfaction ratings
  • Comments on customer service
  • Feedback on ease of use
  • Reported ROI and benefits

How to Choose Call Center Workforce Management Software

It’s easy to get bogged down in long feature lists and complex pricing structures. To help you stay focused as you work through your unique WFM software selection process, here’s a checklist of factors to keep in mind:

FactorWhat to Consider
ScalabilityEnsure the software can grow with your team. Look for solutions that offer flexible plans and can handle increased call volume and additional users as your business expands.
IntegrationsCheck if the software integrates with your existing tools like CRM, email, and chat systems. Seamless integration can enhance efficiency and reduce workflow disruptions.
CustomizabilityOpt for software that allows you to tailor features to fit your specific needs. Custom dashboards and reports can help address unique business challenges and improve operations.
Ease of UseChoose a platform with an intuitive interface that your team can quickly learn. A steep learning curve can delay implementation and reduce overall productivity.
BudgetConsider the total cost, including setup and potential hidden fees. Ensure the software fits within your budget while providing the necessary features to meet your needs.
Security SafeguardsPrioritize software that offers robust security features to protect sensitive data. Look for encryption, user authentication, and compliance with industry standards.
SupportEvaluate the level of customer support available. Access to 24/7 support, training resources, and a dedicated account manager can be crucial for a smooth experience.
Performance MetricsLook for solutions that offer detailed analytics and reporting. Understanding performance metrics can help you refine processes and improve customer satisfaction.

In my research, I sourced countless product updates, press releases, and release logs from different call center workforce management software vendors. Here are some of the emerging trends I’m keeping an eye on:

  • AI-Powered Analytics: AI is enhancing data analysis by providing predictive insights and real-time decision-making support. This helps managers optimize staffing levels and improve customer satisfaction. Some WFM tools also ensure calls are routed to agents with the right skills. Companies like Genesys are incorporating AI to offer more accurate forecasting tools.
  • Cloud Migration: More businesses are moving their call center operations to the cloud for flexibility and cost savings. Cloud-based solutions allow remote work and better scalability. Vendors like Five9 are leading this shift by offering robust cloud platforms.
  • Employee Engagement Tools: Solutions now include features to boost agent morale and productivity, such as gamification and performance feedback. This trend focuses on reducing turnover rates and improving service quality. Playvox, for example, offers tools to engage and motivate call center staff.
  • Omnichannel Support: Providing consistent customer experiences across multiple channels is becoming standard. This trend is crucial for meeting customer expectations and improving service. Platforms like Talkdesk are enhancing their offerings to include voice, chat, email, and social media support.
  • Real-Time Collaboration: Tools that enable instant communication and collaboration among team members are on the rise. This allows for quicker problem resolution and better teamwork. Solutions like PanTerra Networks are integrating features that support real-time collaboration.

What Is Call Center Workforce Management Software?

Call center workforce management software is a tool that helps contact center teams forecast demand, schedule agents to manage outbound calls, and track performance. It’s used to optimize staffing, reduce wait times, and improve service levels across inbound and outbound support operations.

Features of Call Center Workforce Management Software

When selecting call center workforce management software, keep an eye out for the following key features:

  • Employee scheduling: Automates staff schedules to ensure optimal coverage during peak times and reduces manual errors.
  • Forecasting demand: Predicts call volumes and staffing needs based on historical data, helping managers allocate resources efficiently.
  • Real-time monitoring: Allows managers to track ongoing operations and agent performance, enabling quick adjustments as needed.
  • Performance analytics: Provides insights into key metrics, helping managers identify areas for improvement and optimize processes.
  • Omnichannel support: Manages customer interactions across multiple channels like voice, chat, and social media, ensuring a consistent experience.
  • AI-driven insights: Uses artificial intelligence to offer predictive analytics and decision-making support for improved efficiency.
  • Employee engagement tools: Includes features to boost agent morale and productivity, such as gamification and feedback systems.
  • Call recording: Records interactions for quality assurance and compliance, aiding in training and performance evaluations.
  • AI and automation in WFM: Automate basic, recurring tasks with AI and lean on AI insights to move faster.
  • Real-time collaboration: Facilitates instant communication among team members, enhancing teamwork and problem-solving.

Benefits of Call Center Workforce Management Software

If you're thinking, "But why can't I just use spreadsheets for agent scheduling?," I get it. However, implementing call center workforce management software provides several benefits for your team and your business, over and above what a static spreadsheet can do. Here are a few you can look forward to:

  • Improved efficiency: Automated scheduling and forecasting reduce manual tasks and help allocate resources more effectively.
  • Enhanced customer experience: Omnichannel support ensures consistent interactions across various communication platforms, improving customer satisfaction.
  • Better decision-making: AI-driven insights and performance analytics provide data-driven recommendations for optimizing operations.
  • Increased agent productivity: Employee engagement tools like gamification motivate your team and boost morale.
  • Cost savings: Accurate forecasting and scheduling help manage staffing levels, reducing unnecessary labor costs. According to Verint, their customers see an average 30% reduction in overtime costs with the implementation of workforce scheduling tools.
  • Schedule adherence: Tracking attendance rates over time, including no-shows, shift swaps, and PTO.

Call Center WFM Software Implementation Challenges & Solutions

Implementing a Workforce Management (WFM) solution in a call center can greatly improve efficiency, but it also comes with obstacles. Below are three common challenges and their solutions to ensure a smooth implementation.

  1. Resistance to Change: Employees and managers may be hesitant to adopt new WFM software due to fear of complexity or job impact.
    • Solution: Provide clear communication on the benefits, offer hands-on training, and involve staff in the implementation process to increase buy-in.
  2. Integration with Existing Systems: WFM software must work seamlessly with CRM, payroll, and other tools, which can be difficult if systems are outdated or incompatible.
    • Solution: Choose a WFM solution with strong integration capabilities, work closely with IT teams, and test integrations in phases before full deployment.
  3. Data Accuracy and Forecasting Issues: Poor data input or incorrect configurations can lead to inaccurate workforce forecasts and scheduling inefficiencies.
    • Solution: Ensure clean data migration, conduct thorough testing, and continuously refine forecasting models using historical and real-time data.

Pricing Models for Call Center WFM Software

Selecting call center workforce management software requires an understanding of the various pricing models and plans available. Costs vary based on features, team size, add-ons, and more. The table below summarizes common plans, their average prices, and typical features included in call center workforce management software solutions:

Plan Comparison Table for Call Center Workforce Management Software

Plan TypeAverage PriceCommon Features
Free Plan$0/user/monthBasic scheduling, call logging, and limited reporting.
Personal Plan$10-$30/user/monthScheduling, call recording, performance analytics, and limited integrations.
Business Plan$40-$70/user/monthAdvanced scheduling, real-time monitoring, AI insights, and comprehensive reporting.
Enterprise Plan$80-$150/user/monthOmnichannel support, advanced analytics, custom dashboards, and full integrations.

You can compare and contract these values to the average call center costs and decide how to proceed.

People Also Ask

Do you have some lingering questions about call center workforce management software? These answers to frequently asked questions are a good place to start:

How can WFM software help reduce agent burnout in call centers?

WFM software helps reduce agent burnout by automating fair and balanced scheduling, ensuring nobody is overworked across shifts and weeks. These tools monitor workloads and alert you to patterns that lead to fatigue. With accurate forecasting, you avoid chronic understaffing during busy periods, so your team isn’t constantly picking up the slack. Flexible features let agents request preferred shifts, swap with colleagues, or manage availability through self-service, improving work-life balance. Over time, this results in higher engagement, less attrition, and a more resilient call center team.

How accurate are WFM software forecasting tools for handling call volume spikes?

Most WFM platforms leverage historical data, patterns, and even seasonal factors to deliver highly accurate forecasts for daily call volumes. They usually perform well as long as your data is up-to-date, and models are regularly fine-tuned. For sudden spikes caused by promotions, outages, or news events, accuracy can drop if you don’t input those factors. Advanced solutions allow you to manually adjust forecasts or trigger “what-if” scenarios in real time, so you can rapidly adapt your staffing if something unexpected happens. Reviewing forecast outcomes after each spike also improves future accuracy.

What does workforce management do in a call center?

Workforce management software schedules call center agents, forecasts incoming call volume, and tracks real-time productivity. It helps you make sure the right number of agents with the right skills are available when needed, leading to better customer service and lower wait times. WFM software also monitors adherence, measures performance metrics, and automates routine administrative tasks, so you spend less time on manual planning and more time optimizing results. It gives you better control over labor costs, while also supporting compliance with regulations or union agreements.

What are the 6 key pieces of WFM?

The six core elements of WFM in a call center are forecasting, scheduling, real-time adherence, intraday management, reporting and analytics, and time/attendance tracking. Forecasting predicts call volumes so you can plan ahead; scheduling assigns shifts efficiently; real-time adherence tracks if agents stick to plans; intraday management lets you adjust staffing on the fly; analytics help you spot trends or issues; and time/attendance automates timesheets, reducing errors and payroll headaches. Mastering these lets you balance service and efficiency.

What is the difference between workforce management and workforce optimization?

Workforce management (WFM) and workforce optimization (WFO) are closely related, but they serve different purposes within a call center or contact center operation.

Workforce management is about getting the right number of agents in the right place at the right time. It includes forecasting call volumes, building shift schedules, intraday management, tracking attendance, and ensuring agent availability and compliance with labor policies. It’s the operational backbone that keeps your team running on time and on budget.

Workforce optimization takes things a step further. It wraps WFM into a broader strategy that also includes quality management, performance analytics, speech analytics, and coaching. The goal isn’t just to staff efficiently — it’s to continuously improve the service experience, reduce cost-to-serve, and elevate employee experience.

Think of it this way: WFM gets your agents to work on time. WFO helps them (and your operation) perform better every day.

Who should use workforce management solutions in a call center?

Any call center leader managing more than a handful of agents should use WFM solutions. As call volumes and staffing complexities increase, manual scheduling quickly becomes unmanageable. If you have multiple shifts, varying business hours, remote or hybrid teams, or want to offer flexible work patterns, WFM tools help you handle the complexity. They’re also valuable for growing centers needing to optimize costs, meet strict service-level targets, or comply with labor laws and union agreements.

How do you measure the ROI of WFM software?

Measure ROI by comparing staff cost savings, fewer overtime hours, improved schedule accuracy, and better service metrics against your WFM software spend. Many call centers see ROI through reduced agent turnover, less time spent on manual admin, and improved ability to meet SLAs. You might also track KPIs like schedule adherence, average handle time, and customer satisfaction before and after WFM deployment. Reviewing these data points gives you a clear sense of overall financial and operational impact.

What are call center workforce management software best practices?

Make frequent use of real-time monitoring to quickly adjust schedules and maintain service levels. Review your forecasting accuracy after peak seasons or special events. Gather feedback from agents regularly, incorporating their preferences into shift planning where possible. Connect your WFM software with phone, CRM, and helpdesk tools for unified insights, and offer ongoing training to both managers and agents. These practices help you get more reliable coverage, fewer absences, and higher team morale.

Streamline Operations with Call Center Workforce Management Software

With this call center workforce management software breakdown, you can explore a variety of solutions that might meet your needs. If you’re looking for more software guides, The CX Lead is here for you. Don't forget to sign up for the CX Lead newsletter for up-to-the-minute insights from the experts.

Tim Fisher
By Tim Fisher

Tim brings over two decades of experience leading at the crossroads of tech, editorial, and AI innovation. From launching and scaling Lifewire into a top-ranked tech site, to spearheading AI operations at People Inc., he’s spent his career building systems that connect people with smarter solutions. His favorite problems are the ones that unlock new possibilities when properly solved. For Tim, problems are just undiscovered opportunities, and AI has opened the door to solving challenges once thought immovable. When he’s not tinkering with large language models, Tim is either re-reading Project Hail Mary, or eating Mexican food.