BambooHR is a comprehensive HR platform loved by HR managers. But if you're a small business that just needs rostering and timesheet tracking, you're paying for applicant tracking, performance reviews, and employee surveys you don't need.
BambooHR is designed for HR departments. If you don't have an HR department, you don't need HR software. We build simple roster systems that let managers assign shifts, track timesheets, and export to payroll. No employee engagement surveys. No culture dashboards. Just scheduling.
You pay 100% of the subscription but typically use only 35% of the functionality
Why rent the other 65% forever?
BambooHR includes applicant tracking, onboarding workflows, performance management, and benefits administration. If you're a construction company, retail store, or small clinic, you're paying for features designed for corporate HR teams. You need shift rostering and timesheet approval, not talent management software.
Beyond features, there are fundamental differences in philosophy, ownership, and total cost of ownership.
| Metric | The "Universal" SaaS (BambooHR) | The Itsy Bytesy Custom Build (Workforce Scheduler) |
|---|---|---|
| Philosophy | "One tool for everyone." | "A tool specifically for *you*." |
| Cost Model | OpEx (Rent): Per-user, forever. | CapEx (Asset): One-time build cost + minimal hosting. |
| Data Ownership | API Limits & Export Fees. | Direct SQL Access. You own the database. |
| Update Cycle | UI changes randomly, confusing your staff. | UI only changes when *you* ask for it. |
| The "Noise" | Gamification, Social Feeds, Upsell Popups. | Zero distractions. Pure utility. |
A Workforce Scheduler focused on your actual workflow:
Weekly roster creation and assignment
Timesheet clock-in/clock-out
Leave request and approval workflow
Basic employee contact database
Don't guess. Book a 15-minute architecture review. We'll tell you honestly if you should stick with BambooHR or build your own asset.