How do I set up and apply a shift pattern?

Creating and applying shift patterns requires (self) scheduler privileges. In addition, the 'Standby Duty' and 'Standby duty template planning' modules must be enabled. These modules can be requested by using the Feedback button at the bottom of the screen in FireServiceRota.

Many watches work in fixed shift patterns. The pattern should be defined once and can then be applied to team members for extended periods of time.

Defining the pattern

To define the pattern FireServiceRota needs an example period. Use any member of a watch on the rota to assign one tour of shifts. This will be the example period based on which the rota will create the pattern. Below an example of a 2-2-4 tour.

Once the tour is filled in a template can be created through the 'Rota' --> 'Duty Template Planning' menu. Fill in the form as shown below:

You can ignore the 'Template should start on a Monday' warnings. These are to indicate you deviate from a 7 day pattern and are harmless.

When the 'align to start' option is selected the start of the tour as defined for Harry will always align with the first day of the period you apply the pattern to in a later stage. When deselected all green watch 224 shifts will always be aligned with each other.

Click 'save' to save the pattern.

Applying the pattern

Going into the 'Rota' --> 'Duty Template Pattern' again you can now select the pattern we just defined. Once selected it can be applied to various crew members for an extended period of time. Don't worry about changing the original crew member's (Harry's) pattern as a copy is stored that will not be changed.

Note that the 'Planning period' is the period the template will be applied to. This period will be wiped clean of any pre-existing shifts and the new pattern of shifts will be applied.