Flexible schedule planning and monitoring

Last updated on April 3, 2024

The information on this page is specific to flexible scheduling.

To decide which flexible work schedule option might suit you and your position, the BC Public Service uses a simple four step process.

Flexible scheduling refers to an employee’s participation in job share arrangements, part-time work, modified workweeks (such as 'flex-time') or planned leaves.

Flexible scheduling is not the same thing as flexible work and telework, and involves different approval processes.

Flexible scheduling is about when you work; flexible work and telework is about where you work.

For more information about flexible work options, review Flexible workplaces for BC Public Service employees.

Step 1

Educate yourself about the various flexible work options available and any applicable considerations in your collective agreement or terms and conditions of employment.

Step 2

Once the most suitable option is identified, consider how the selected option might affect

Your ability to meet ongoing and new business goals, objectives and operational requirements. Not all options will be suitable for all environments, roles or individuals
The need for open and frequent communication, equitable treatment of all employees, and building and maintaining trust between employees and their supervisors
The contribution of flexible work arrangements to employee engagement, well-being and health to both the employee and the work group as a whole

Complete the Flexible Work Options Self-assessment (PDF, 91KB) to evaluate potential challenges, clarify specific needs and prepare strategies for successfully adopting a flexible work schedule.

Step 3

If the self-assessment indicates that flexible work options are a possibility, arrange a meeting with your supervisor. Although no formal proposal is required at this stage, you may wish to summarize your initial thoughts and recommendations in writing.

If the request appears feasible, your manager/supervisor may ask you to prepare a formal Flexible Work Options Employee Proposal (PDF, 189KB).

Step 4

Your supervisor will discuss the proposal with other required decision makers within the organization to determine their level of support.

If initial discussions indicate that flexible work options are not feasible, the supervisor should provide feedback to you and present other potential options to explore.

Going forward with a flexible schedule

Flexible work options proposal

If you had an initial, positive conversation with your supervisor about a flexible schedule option, the next stage is for you to prepare a formal Flexible Work Options Employee Proposal (PDF, 189KB).

If you are part of a group of employees proposing a flexible work option, one formal proposal may be enough for the entire group.

Once received, your supervisor will review the formal proposal using the Flexible Work Options Manager’s Checklist (PDF, 161KB).

If your formal proposal is not supported, supervisors should review the proposal and decision with you and make suggestions for revisions or alternative approaches.

Monitoring the new arrangement

All flexible work options should begin on a pilot basis and be monitored and revised as needed to ensure their continued success and support.

Reviews can occur spontaneously or on a fixed schedule.

Employees and supervisors are responsible for having open, transparent and trusting conversations during the first stages of trying out a flexible work option.

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The B.C. Public Service acknowledges the territories of First Nations around B.C. and is grateful to carry out our work on these lands. We acknowledge the rights, interests, priorities, and concerns of all Indigenous Peoples - First Nations, Métis, and Inuit - respecting and acknowledging their distinct cultures, histories, rights, laws, and governments.

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