RotaPlanner Update: May 2026

Several updates have been introduced to RotaPlanner, focusing on automated scheduling capabilities, direct communication channels, and administrative tools.

Natural Language Scheduling Rules and Improved Auto-Population

The scheduling engine has been updated to support custom rules written in plain English. This allows the system to process natural language instructions when generating schedules.

• Users can write rules in plain English, which are interpreted by the automatic shift scheduler to generate conforming rotas.
• The automated scheduling system has been upgraded to auto-populate version 2, refining how shifts are assigned based on staff availability and contracted hours.
• Shift configurations now support specific skill requirements. This allows the shift auto-population system to match shifts automatically to employees with the appropriate training and expertise.

WhatsApp Integration

In addition to existing web-app and email notifications, RotaPlanner now integrates directly with WhatsApp.

• Shift updates and schedule notifications can be sent directly to employees' mobile devices via WhatsApp, providing another direct channel for team communication.

AI Agent Staff Management

The capabilities of the built-in AI assistant have been expanded to streamline team configuration and reduce manual administration.

• The AI agent has been updated with tools to create new employee profiles.
• The AI agent can now update existing employee information directly, assisting with day-to-day staff management tasks.