If you’re about to begin working at Starbucks, the two apps that you’ll want to know about are Starbucks Teamworks and WorkJam. It’s easy to get confused when it comes to figuring out which one you need, since both are used for managing schedules and work tasks. The apt app for you will depend on which type of store you are working at: a corporate or a licensed Starbucks.
This guide will help clear things up. We’ll discuss what each is for, call out key differences and help you decipher which one you will use as a new Starbucks partner.
What is Starbucks Teamworks?
Starbucks Teamworks is their workforce management system that has been active for many years. Think of it as the Starbucks employee app for scheduling, but on steroids. Though many corporate stores have transitioned mainly to newer systems, Teamworks remains in use, particularly among licensed stores (such as those inside airports or within Target), and by managers who appreciate its desktop features.
As a new hire barista, you’d utilize Starbucks Teamworks to:
- View your weekly work schedule
- Request time off
- Swap shifts with your coworkers by posting or picking up the shifts you’re interested in.
- Keep track of your hours and breaks (in some cases)
One can usually get onto Teamworks from a computer on an internal store portal. Some stores may have a mobile-friendly version, but it’s mostly a Web tool.
What is WorkJam?
Similar to when you transition from answering machines to email, WorkJam is the more current and larger-scope platform that we consider a frontend orchestration tool. It’s meant to serve as a one-stop shop for employees, tying together everything from task management and communication to training and scheduling. Now it’s the norm at most corporate-owned Starbucks stores.
WorkJam provides a more complete solution beyond basic scheduling that encompasses:
- Single point number for daily assignments of work and updates
- Acquiring online courses and educational resources
- Secure, multilingual chats with your team
- Choice of flexible scheduling options to bid on open shifts
Unlike Teamworks, WorkJam is mobile-first and built for the new norm – have everything you need on your phone in your pocket. And plenty of other big retailers and service providers use it, not just Starbucks. As you may have noticed when attempting to use a website like Picuki to look at images for social media, platforms tend to go in different directions; Starbucks recently switched over its primary employee app for corporate stores from Teamworks to the more functional WorkJam.
Key Differences: Teamworks vs. WorkJam
While both apps handle scheduling, their purpose and features are quite different. Teamworks is a straightforward workforce management tool, whereas WorkJam is a complete frontline orchestration platform.
Here’s a quick comparison:
|
Feature |
Starbucks Teamworks |
WorkJam |
|
Primary Use |
Workforce Management |
Frontline Orchestration |
|
Key Functions |
Schedule viewing, Time off requests, Shift swapping |
Task management, Training, Communications, Staffing, Scheduling |
|
Access Method |
Computer, Mobile-friendly version/app (select stores) |
Mobile App |
|
Employee Focus |
Baristas, Shift Supervisors, Store Managers |
All Frontline Employees |
|
Ideal For |
Viewing schedules, Requesting time off, Swapping shifts |
Task assignments, Training modules, Communication |
|
ROI |
N/A |
410% (Average, according to Forrester TEI™ study) |
|
Global Reach |
N/A |
Available in 50+ languages |
|
Unique Benefit |
Desktop scheduling features |
Connects self-service tools, multilingual chats, daily task management, flexible scheduling and training. |
Which Starbucks Employee App Do You Need?
So, which app do you download? The answer is easy and it depends on what type of your store:
- With few exceptions, if you’re employed by a corporate-owned Starbucks store, you will be assigned to WorkJam. This is what you will use for schedules, correspondence and training.
- While working at a licensed Starbucks store (i.e., located inside Target, grocery store, or airport), you will most likely use YOUR SBUX/Starbucks Teamworks.
The manager will tell you and this will be confirmed for you when You’re inducted on the job. They will also process your registration and give you the login details as well as how to log into and make use of the platform.
Your Go-To Guide for Getting Started
New tools can be disorienting, but knowing the difference between Starbucks Teamworks and WorkJam is half the battle. One is a robust scheduling tool for licensed stores, the other an all-in-one platform for corporate locations.
Any time you find yourself wondering which app to use or how to obtain it, your store manager should be more than happy to oblige. They will be your best resource to get up and running in the right way, ensuring you have what you need to succeed in your new role..