Ace the 2026 Certified Hospitality Manager Exam – Hospitality Heroes Wanted!

Utilizing demand forecasting based on occupancy rates is an effective technique for staff scheduling because it allows managers to anticipate staffing needs based on expected customer demand. By analyzing historical data, trends, and patterns in occupancy, managers can predict busy periods and allocate staff accordingly, ensuring that there are enough employees to meet guest needs without overscheduling during slower times. This proactive approach helps maintain service quality, optimize labor costs, and improve operational efficiency.

In contrast, random selection of staff does not take into account the unique needs of the business or the skills required on different shifts. Team rotation among departments, while beneficial for employee development, may not address the immediate staffing requirements of specific departments based on forecasted demand. Ad-hoc scheduling may provide a short-term solution but often leads to inconsistencies in staffing levels, which can negatively impact service and employee morale. Therefore, demand forecasting is the most strategic method for effective staff scheduling.