Keeping up with new technologies and new software in the fast-paced world of workforce management is key to keeping your operations running smoothly, safely and efficiently.
For this reason, from 20 October 2022, the report on Ultimate Kronos Group (UKG) is set to discontinue its UKG Workforce Central product (WFC). You may be wondering what these changes mean for you and how you can transition to the new system without disrupting your daily work.
This blog is here to clear up any confusion, answer common questions, and provide guidance on how to make the UKG Workforce Dimensions as seamless as possible.
UKG’s decision to move on from Workforce Central underscores their commitment to innovate and deliver new solutions that better meet current workplace needs for users. Transitioning to a new system, although it may seem daunting, is an opportunity to take advantage of several modern functions that can improve the efficiency of your workforce management processes.
Understanding the UKG Workforce Center (WFC)
Let’s take a moment to get to know the UKG Workforce Central (WFC). Before exploring the whys and benefits of switching to this system, it’s important to understand exactly what it is. WFC, which you may have heard of as Kronos Workforce Central before, is a powerful set of tools designed to help businesses better manage their teams.
It covers everything from when and where employees work, managing vacation time, scheduling things to do and even managing payroll. What sets WFC apart is its user-friendly mobile app.
This app makes it super easy for employees and managers to manage everyday tasks like punching in and out, checking their to-do list, and requesting time off, all from their wrist. It has become a trusted option for a variety of companies, large and small, looking to streamline these critical operations.
Why is UKG Retiring Workforce Central?
UKG has decided to discontinue Workforce Central (WFC) as it shifts its focus to a new quality program called Workforce Dimensions. This upgrade is similar to upgrading an older phone to a newer model with more features and better performance.
Workforce Dimensions is equipped with the latest technology to meet the requirements of large companies. It provides many new tools and techniques that make team management easier and more efficient.
Plus, this updated system is built on the Google Cloud platform, which is known to be highly reliable and secure, unlike older systems running on Kronos Private Cloud this means your data is safe and you can do more with your system, which is running out of space or they will face security problems.
Timeline of Change
UKG has set a clear timeline for the end of support for WFC, offering different windows based on customer reception of their solutions. Support for KPC owners will continue until December 31, 2025, while support for on-premises customers will be extended until March 31, 2027.
This phased approach ensures that all customers will have sufficient time to plan and execute their transition to Workforce Dimensions or another solution that meets their needs.
After 2025: What’s Next for WFC Users?
After support ends for cloud-hosted WFC instances in 2025, and for on-premises installations in 2027, people using WFC will find themselves at crossroads. They could see their systems not working as well, face more dangers from hackers, and find it hard to get help.
That’s why it’s really important for anyone using WFC to start planning ahead for what to do next. This way they can ensure that they are prepared and avoid any major problems that may occur as a result of these changes.
A shift towards Workforce Dimensions
The transition to Workforce Dimensions may seem like a big step for many WFC clients, but it’s often a smart choice. The UKG Workforce Design (WFD) stands out because it is designed to be highly accessible and enjoyable.
It is packed with innovative features and smart tools, and uses AI to deliver insights and reports that can help businesses.
While moving to WFD means that there will be some setup work and learning involved, this is made easier because the program is user-friendly. Plus, if you’re already used to how WFC works, you’ll find that many of the processes in WFD will feel familiar.
Timing Your Migration
Embarking on a migration journey can be quite intricate. To navigate this efficaciously, kicking off your planning as soon as the first quarter of 2024 is advisable. Beginning early gives you the room to cautiously compare what your organization need, check if your team is ready, and put together a well-concepted plan for the migration.
Bringing a UKG consultant into the combination can make a huge difference. They bring a wealth of know-how and experience, making it easier to be able to find the best option for your organization. This partnership will make the whole procedure less difficult, making sure you’re set up for a smooth and easy transition.
Cost Considerations
When thinking about cost estimates associated with the transition from Workforce Center (WFC) to Workforce Dimensions (WFD), it is important to recognize that total costs may vary.
This is because factors such as how big your company is, what specific needs you have, and how you want to adapt the system to those needs all play a role. Despite these factors, opting for a WFD can sincerely save you money through the years.
This is because sticking with the old system or choosing a new one you can actually end up costing more, mainly considering the benefits and effort WFD brings to the table.
Leveraging UKG Partners
Implementing a Workforce Dimensions (WFD) may seem daunting in the beginning, however teaming up with an experienced UKG partner, the task turns into less complicated. Partners like Virtelligence are acknowledged for their information and creative solutions.
They offer a helping hand every step of the way, from analyzing what you already have, making plans your move, teaching your team how to use the new application, and making sure the entirety is going smoothly. This support is invaluable for a smooth transition.
Final Thoughts
We came to see UKG Workforce Central’s journey coming to an end. This moment, although bittersweet, paves the way for further exciting developments with UKG Workforce Dimensions.
This new beginning promises to bring groundbreaking solutions and improvements to how we manage our teams. By having a clear picture of what will happen, preparing for this transition, working closely with experienced partners, the transition can be smooth and seamless.
Embracing this opportunity and adopting cutting-edge technology plays an effective role in managing employees.
Start preparing now and move forward at a time when managing your employees is not only simpler and easier but also filled with more power than ever before. Let’s navigate these changes together, and ensure a brighter and more efficient future in workforce management.
FAQs
What was the reason for UKG’s decision to discontinue Workforce Central?
UKG is retiring Workforce Central (WFC) and shifting its focus to a new comprehensive program called Workforce Dimensions.
The move aims to provide users with the latest technology and enhanced features to better meet the demands of today’s enterprises, including enhanced reliability and security through the Google Cloud platform
What is the deadline for completion of support for Workforce Central?
Support for Workforce Central will end on December 31, 2025, for cloud-hosted solutions, and March 31, 2027, for on-premises installations. This phased method lets in extra time for clients to plot and execute their transition to Workforce Dimensions or some other appropriate solution.
What are the potential consequences of no longer switching from WFC after assist ends?
In addition to guide termination, WFC clients might also experience decreased performance, increased protection vulnerabilities, and difficulty getting access to technical support. This makes it important for clients to begin making plans for their adjustments early to avoid issues and safety risks.
What are the advantages of switching to Workforce Dimensions from Workforce Central?
The transition to Workforce Dimensions brings many advantages, along side a wealth of modern capability, AI-driven insights and reporting, and a standard intuitive and interesting user experience.
The application is designed in a way that is straightforward to use and offers tools that beautify workers management processes, saving expenses and improving operational overall performance.
How must corporations approach migration to Workforce Dimensions?
Organizations want to begin making plans about their migration in the first quarter of 2024. It is vital to evaluate the needs of the organization, put together the team, and create an entire migration plan.
The involvement of a UKG specialists like Virtelligence can appreciably facilitate the system, provide professional support and make a smooth transition to Workforce Dimensions.
