Optimizing Barista Shift Scheduling in Multi-Branches Through System Development Using Design Thinking

Efficient shift scheduling is essential for optimizing operations in multi-branch coffee shops. This study focuses on improving the barista shift scheduling system at Coffee Shop XYZ using a technology-driven approach informed by Design Thinking principles. The current rotation-based system fails to adapt quickly to fluctuating customer demands and staff availability, leading to inefficiencies and reduced staff satisfaction. This research introduces a flexible, user-centered shift scheduling system that accounts for individual barista preferences, branch proximity, and operational needs across multiple branches. The system incorporates a cloud-based platform that facilitates real-time scheduling, ensuring better communication and workflow management. Through iterative Design Thinking phases—Empathize, Define, Ideate, Prototype, and Test—this study designs and tests the system, achieving a high usability score of 87.3 on the System Usability Scale (SUS), indicating strong user satisfaction and operational effectiveness. This innovative system not only enhances scheduling efficiency but also significantly improves barista job satisfaction, offering valuable insights for operational management in the coffee shop industry.