In this article you will learn:

What is the Bradford Factor?
The Bradford Factor/Score is used in human resource management as a way of measuring employee absences and the disruption they cause to one's business. After extensive research carried out in Bradford University School of Management in the 1980s, it was theorized that shorter yet more frequent and unplanned absences from work were actually more disruptive to the running of a business than longer absences.

Bradford factor scores are based on the frequency and length of an employee’s absence during a defined period, usually 52 weeks.

The formula used is:
​B= S² x D

Where
​B = Bradford factor score
​S = total number of spells (instances) of absence for that individual in the given period
​D = total number of days the individual was absent during the given period

What is a 'good' or 'bad' Bradford Factor Score?
The higher the Score an employee gets from the Bradford Score, the more disruptive their absences have been for the business.

For example in the sample report, Simon Adams and Pauly Shaughnessy both have 3 days absent. Simon was absent on 2 occasions (once for 1 day and once for 2 days) while Pauly was absent on 3 occasions for 1 day each time. Pauly's Bradford Score is higher than Simon's due to the fact he was absent for more "spells"/occasions.

Please note: Open Ended Sick Records will be included in the Bradford Factor Report once you close the record.

While a good indication, the Bradford Factor cannot take into account personal, human aspects and so a high Bradford Score must not be taken at face value and should be investigated.

For example, employees with serious illnesses may receive high Scores that are beyond control. Similarly, employees may be absent to care for dependents.

The Bradford Report is a great tool to investigate disruptions in one's business however it has its flaws. A human perspective should always be used to review high scores.

Related Articles:

Leaver Report

Leaver Reasons Report

Employee Time Off Report

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