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Managing shift swap and open shift from a smartphone

Sean Wyse By Sean Wyse Updated 12 January 2026 3 min read
Permission level: All Users Device: Web Browser

Manage shift swaps and open shifts on mobile

This guide shows managers how to process shift swaps and open shifts in the RosterElf iPhone and Android apps. Once the feature is enabled in roster settings, you can review pending requests, assign them to the best candidate or deny them, and consult archived actions later. Quick steps and screenshots help you keep rosters full, reduce manual calls and notify staff of outcomes instantly— all from your phone.

1. Review pending shift swaps and open shifts

Start in the Pending tab to view every un-actioned swap or open shift. From here you can open each card, compare candidates and approve the transfer with one tap.

1.1 Open the pending tab

1.1.1 Tap Pending on the top menu bar.

Pending tab highlighted in Home dashboard

1.1.2 Tap a shift swap or open shift card to view details.

Shift swap card selected in Pending list

1.2 Approve from candidates list

1.2.1 Tap Candidates, choose the employee and press Select.

Candidates list with Save button circled

1.3 Approve via matches list

1.3.1 Tap Matches, pick the best-fit staff member and press Select.

Matches list showing best fit candidate

Staff receive a push notification when you approve or deny a request.

2. View archived shift swap history

Need to check previous decisions? Filter the list to show archived swaps and open shifts. You can open any card for full details, handy for audits or follow-up queries.

2.1 Filter for archived records

2.1.1 Tap the filter icon in the top-right of the Pending screen.

Filter icon highlighted on Pending header

2.1.2 Select Archived, then tap Apply.

Archived filter selected with Apply button circled

2.2 Review archived request

2.2.1 Review the list to see all archived cards relating to the swap or open shift.

Archived shift swaps list with one request opened

Frequently asked questions

1. Why don't I see shift swaps in the app?

An admin must enable the feature in Roster Settings first. Once enabled, shift swaps and open shifts will appear in the Pending tab.

2. What's the difference between Candidates and Matches?

Candidates shows staff who volunteered for the shift. Matches lists staff the system rates as the best fit based on skills and availability.

3. Does approving a swap update the roster?

Yes. Once you press Select, the roster updates automatically and notifies all staff involved in the shift swap or open shift.

4. Can I undo an approval?

Use the web platform to reopen the request, then assign it to a different employee if needed.

5. How long do archived swaps stay available?

Archived requests are retained in the system indefinitely for auditing and reporting purposes.

Still need help?

Our Australian-based support team is here to assist you.