Deputy Brings Shift Worker Conversations In-App with Stream

Deputy, a workforce management platform for hourly workers, has integrated real-time messaging into its system to improve communication for shift-based teams, addressing the limitations of third-party applications like WhatsApp and Slack. The new feature, built in partnership with Stream, ensures privacy, operational control, and seamless integration with Deputy’s existing suite, which includes scheduling, HR, and payroll services. The messaging product includes unique features such as @onshift, allowing managers to communicate with only those currently working, and provides both free and paid tiers to accommodate businesses of varying sizes. The development process, from alpha to general availability, took nine months, and the product was designed for scalability without requiring extensive ongoing engineering resources. Deputy's choice to partner with Stream was driven by the need for a high-quality, customizable messaging solution that could be rapidly deployed without building from scratch, allowing the company to focus on enhancing the product based on real-world usage and feedback. The collaboration with Stream also highlighted the importance of responsive partnership and commercial flexibility, contributing to Deputy's successful launch and ongoing satisfaction with the platform's performance and potential for scale.