Managing your Shopify store’s team efficiently can be a game-changer for your business. The right staff manager app helps you track employee hours, handle payroll, and streamline your operations—all from a single platform. But with so many options available, how do you choose the best one for your needs?
In this article, we’ll walk you through the 7 best Shopify staff manager apps that can help eCommerce store owners and agencies improve productivity and reduce administrative hassles. From apps that specialize in payroll and HR to those that focus on scheduling and team communication, we’ve got you covered. Let’s dive into the list, so you can find the app that fits your business like a glove.
Over 48,991 websites currently run Shopify Plus, with nearly 20,000 distinct merchants.( Source )
Criteria for Choosing a Staff Manager App
Choosing the right staff manager app for your Shopify store depends on several factors. Here’s a breakdown of the key criteria you should consider:
1. Ease of Use
- The app should have a user-friendly interface that’s easy for both store owners and employees to navigate. A simple dashboard and intuitive setup process can save a lot of time and effort.
- Look for apps that offer mobile compatibility, as this allows you to manage your team on the go.
2. Integration with Shopify
- Seamless integration with Shopify is crucial. The best staff manager apps should sync effortlessly with your store, allowing you to access employee data, sales reports, and payroll information directly from your Shopify dashboard.
- Some apps also integrate with other tools like QuickBooks or Gusto, making your entire HR and financial process more efficient.
3. Payroll and HR Features
- Apps like Gusto and Deputy excel in providing payroll automation, tax filing, and HR functionalities. If managing payroll and compliance is a key concern for your business, these features will be essential.
- Look for options that support employee benefits, automated tax calculations, and filing capabilities.
4. Scheduling Capabilities
- For stores with variable shifts or seasonal workers, apps with advanced scheduling tools are a must. Tools like Deputy offer AI-driven scheduling to ensure optimal staff allocation based on sales forecasts, helping you reduce labor costs while maintaining service quality.
- The app should also have features to manage time-offs, shift swaps, and break compliance to avoid any legal issues.
5. Pricing and Free Trials
- Pricing varies greatly between apps, from affordable solutions like ClockedIn at $29/month to more comprehensive options like Gusto starting at $40/month. Consider your budget and choose an app that provides the best value for its features.
- Free trials and plans are crucial to test the app’s functionality before committing. Many apps offer a 14-day trial or even a limited free version, which can help you get a feel for their features.
6. Customer Support and Training Resources
- Good customer support is vital when integrating a new tool into your business. Look for apps that offer live chat, phone support, or comprehensive help centers.
- Some apps also provide onboarding guides, video tutorials, and community forums, which can be incredibly helpful during the initial setup phase.
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Top 7 Shopify Staff Manager Apps for 2024
1. EasyTeam POS Staff Management
EasyTeam is specifically designed for managing staff on Shopify POS. It offers features like time tracking, scheduling, payroll, and commission management, making it a versatile choice for stores with physical locations.
- Key Features: Supports multiple roles and permissions, allowing easy management of staff across different locations.
- Pricing: Free plan available with a premium version starting at $20/month.
- Rating: 4.5/5
- Ideal For: Store owners who need detailed control over their in-store team activities.
2. Gusto – Payroll & HR
Gusto is a robust HR platform that focuses on payroll automation, employee benefits, and comprehensive HR tools. It’s widely known for its seamless integration with Shopify and other business tools like QuickBooks.
- Key Features: Automates payroll and tax filings, offers benefits management, and supports compliance with HR regulations.
- Pricing: Starts at $40/month with a 90-day free trial available.
- Rating: 5/5
- Ideal For: Shopify businesses looking for a centralized solution for HR and payroll.
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3. Digno
Digno focuses on AI-driven performance management and sales tracking. It provides a comprehensive score based on sales progress, employee productivity, and KPI outcomes.
- Key Features: Includes a reward system to motivate employees, real-time sales data, and performance tracking.
- Pricing: $29/month with a 14-day free trial available.
- Rating: 5/5
- Ideal For: Shopify stores focused on boosting team performance and sales productivity.
4. ClockedIn
ClockedIn offers a simple, digital punch card system for managing employee work hours. It’s ideal for businesses that need straightforward time-tracking solutions.
- Key Features: Real-time clock-in/out capabilities, easy-to-use interface for both admins and team members.
- Pricing: $29/month with a free trial available.
- Rating: 2.4/5
- Ideal For: Stores that require a basic, efficient time management tool.
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5. Homebase
Homebase provides comprehensive tools for scheduling, payroll, and team communication. It’s especially useful for managing hourly workers.
- Key Features: Includes features for employee scheduling, time tracking, team communication, and payroll processing.
- Pricing: Free for basic use, with premium plans starting at $20/month.
- Rating: 4.3/5.
- Ideal For: Small to medium-sized Shopify stores that rely on hourly workers.
6. ManageMate Team Management
ManageMate focuses on payroll, scheduling, and team management for Shopify POS environments. It provides robust integration with other tools for seamless operations.
- Key Features: Advanced payroll features, employee attendance tracking, and compliance tools.
- Pricing: Starts at $15/month with no free plan available.
- Rating: 4.2/5
- Ideal For: Store owners looking for a cost-effective solution for payroll and time tracking.
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7. JobFly Career Page Builder
JobFly helps Shopify stores create customized career pages, making it easier to attract and hire new talent directly from your store.
- Key Features: Customizable job listings, in-app resume downloads, and candidate shortlisting capabilities.
- Pricing: $6.32/month with a free trial available.
- Rating: 1/5
- Ideal For: Agencies and store owners looking to streamline their hiring process.
How to Choose the Best App for Your Store
Selecting the right staff management app for your Shopify store depends on several factors. Here’s a guide to help you make the best choice for your specific needs:
1. Identify Your Business Needs
- Small to Medium Businesses: If you’re running a smaller Shopify store, a simpler tool like ClockedIn or Homebase might be ideal due to their affordability and ease of use. These apps offer essential time-tracking and scheduling features without overwhelming your team.
- Larger Stores with HR Requirements: For stores with a larger team or more complex HR needs, Gusto and Deputy provide comprehensive payroll, HR, and compliance features that streamline your operations and reduce administrative workload.
2. Consider Integration Capabilities
- Make sure the app you choose integrates well with Shopify and other software you use, such as accounting tools or customer relationship management systems. Gusto and Deputy are excellent examples of apps that integrate seamlessly with Shopify, QuickBooks, and various HR tools.
- STAFF START Integration stands out if your focus is on combining digital and physical store operations, especially for social media engagements.
3. Assess Usability and Mobile Accessibility
- Apps like EasyTeam and Deputy offer strong mobile compatibility, which means you can manage your team’s schedule and track hours from anywhere. This is crucial for store owners who need to make quick adjustments on the go.
- User-friendly design and clear dashboards are important to avoid a steep learning curve. Look for apps with good customer reviews praising their ease of use, like Gusto, which has high ratings for its straightforward interface.
4. Check Pricing and Free Trials
- Free Trials: Utilize the free trials that most of these apps offer to test their functionalities before committing to a paid plan. For example, Digno offers a 14-day free trial, and Gusto has a generous 90-day trial period.
- Budget-Friendly Options: If you are looking to minimize costs, consider Homebase or ClockedIn as they have low monthly fees and free plan options for basic features.
5. Evaluate Support and Training Resources
- Good customer support can make a huge difference when you’re setting up or troubleshooting the app. Look for apps that provide multiple support channels, including live chat and tutorials. Deputy and Gusto have strong support teams that guide you through setup and usage.
6. Consider Long-Term Growth
- Think about your business’s future needs as well. Apps like Digno and STAFF START Integration are designed to scale with your business, making them ideal for growing teams or eCommerce agencies that might expand their operations.
Benefits of Using Staff Management Apps for Shopify Stores
Adopting the right staff management app for your Shopify store can provide a range of benefits that directly impact your business operations and overall efficiency. Here are some of the key advantages:
1. Increased Productivity through Automation
- Staff management apps like Gusto and Deputy automate critical tasks such as payroll processing, scheduling, and compliance management. This automation saves valuable time for store owners, allowing them to focus more on strategic activities that grow their business.
- These tools also reduce manual errors in employee data management, ensuring smooth and error-free operations.
2. Optimized Staff Scheduling and Reduced Labor Costs
- Deputy’s AI-driven scheduling feature helps store owners predict staffing needs based on sales data and historical trends, ensuring that they have the right amount of staff at the right time. This helps in avoiding overstaffing or understaffing, which can impact both costs and customer service quality.
- Efficient scheduling also improves employee satisfaction by reducing conflicts over shifts and allowing for better work-life balance.
3. Streamlined Communication and Team Coordination
- Apps like Homebase and EasyTeam offer built-in communication tools that make it easy for team members to coordinate, swap shifts, or update availability. This helps in maintaining a smooth workflow, especially for businesses that have remote or part-time staff.
- Real-time communication features ensure that all team members are on the same page, reducing misunderstandings and improving overall productivity.
4. Enhanced Employee Engagement and Motivation
- Tools such as Digno include reward and recognition systems that boost employee morale by acknowledging top performers. This feature helps in creating a positive work culture, encouraging staff to meet or exceed their targets.
- Recognizing achievements and providing continuous feedback can lead to a more motivated team, which translates into better service for customers and improved store performance.
5. Compliance with Labor Laws
- Maintaining compliance with labor laws can be complicated, especially for growing businesses. Apps like Gusto and Deputy simplify this process by tracking work hours, managing breaks, and automatically calculating overtime according to local regulations.
- These apps help store owners avoid legal issues and penalties by ensuring that all employment practices adhere to the necessary guidelines.
6. Centralized Data and Reporting
- Staff management apps provide a centralized platform for storing all employee-related information, from work schedules to payroll data and performance reports. This makes it easier to generate insights and make data-driven decisions that improve business operations.
- Digno and STAFF START Integration offer real-time analytics that help store owners monitor team productivity and track sales performance, aiding in strategic planning for future growth.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
What is the best Shopify staff manager app for small businesses?
For small businesses, Homebase and EasyTeam are great options. They offer essential features like time tracking, scheduling, and payroll management at affordable prices or even free plans. These apps are straightforward and easy to use, making them ideal for smaller teams.
Can I try these apps for free before purchasing?
Yes, most of the staff management apps offer free trials or plans. Gusto provides a 90-day free trial, while Deputy and Digno also offer trial periods to let you test their features before committing to a subscription.
Do these apps integrate with other Shopify tools and platforms?
Most of these apps have robust integration capabilities. For example, Gusto and Deputy integrate seamlessly with Shopify, QuickBooks, and other popular accounting and HR platforms. This helps in streamlining data across your business systems.
Why should I use a staff management app for my Shopify store?
Staff management apps simplify various administrative tasks like payroll, scheduling, and team communication. They help improve efficiency, reduce errors, and ensure that your business complies with labor laws. This allows you to focus more on growing your Shopify store and improving customer service.
Which app offers the best value for money?
The best value depends on your specific needs. For comprehensive HR and payroll features, Gusto offers excellent value despite its higher price point. For budget-friendly solutions, ClockedIn and Homebase provide essential features at a lower cost, making them suitable for small businesses or those just starting out.
Conclusion
Choosing the right staff manager app can make a significant difference in how you run your Shopify store. Whether you need detailed payroll features, simple time tracking, or advanced scheduling tools, there’s an app tailored to your needs. Apps like Gusto and Deputy offer all-in-one solutions, while Digno focuses on boosting team performance with its AI-driven tools.
By understanding your store’s specific requirements and making use of the free trials available, you can find the best staff manager app that fits your budget and business goals. Investing in the right tool will not only streamline your store operations but also lead to a happier, more productive team.
