What is Bradford Factor? | Definition & Meaning | Akrivia HCM

The Bradford factor is a metric used by Human Resource professionals to measure the capacity of an employee to perform their duties or responsibilities fully. When an employee is absent, it impacts other employees, which ultimately affects their performance and the organization’s profitability.

The Bradford factor is used primarily as part of the broader absence management process because its heavy weight on frequent short-term absences could be considered unfair or discriminatory.

It can be used to set trigger points based on employees’ scores. Trigger points would typically lead to an absence review and potential disciplinary action, but they should always be followed by a conversation between the managers and employees in question. At this point, the organization has an opportunity to have a broader understanding of the issues at work and make changes that could ultimately reduce the number of absences.

The formula of Bradford factor for calculation:

B (Bradford Factor)= S(Number of unauthorized absences)xS(Number of unauthorized absences)x D(Total days of absence)

Advantages of Bradford factor:

• Absence reduction: The Bradford Factor is popular approach organizations use to reduce absenteeism. It focuses on reducing employees’ short-term absences, encouraging them only to take time off when it’s essential.
• Saves time: Managing absences is a time-consuming task, often performed manually, that can detract from HR teams’ efforts to focus on the needs of employees. The Bradford Factor enables HR teams to monitor absences automatically and address employee needs accordingly.