Cost of Turnover Calculator

FAQ

What is the Cost of Turnover Calculator?

The calculator is a straightforward tool for a child welfare agency to obtain an estimate of the annual cost of turnover for caseworker positions. The calculator method is based on the costs associated with the separation,training, and replacement of departing staff. It also includes an estimate of the cost incurred due to the differential in performance between departing (experienced) workers and their newly hired (inexperienced) replacements.

Is there evidence behind this?

Yes. The calculator uses the costing methods developed by Dr. Wayne Cascio, adapted for a child welfare setting. A full explanation of the background and approach are described in Graef & Hill (2000).

Who is supposed to use it?

We recommend a small team consisting of representatives from Human Resources (HR), training, and payroll work together with a child welfare leader to gather the information needed to populate the designated data points into the calculator. The calculator requires basic information about the agency’s HR processing of exiting employees, hiring of new employees, and new employee training/orientation. The data is typically readily available to individuals who manage these functions.

How do we use it?

Review the calculator to see the data elements that are necessary for the calculator to function. For some elements, you have the option of substituting industry averages rather than using your own agency’s actual values; however, the turnover cost estimate will be more accurate if you use your agency’s actual values.

How much time does it take?

You can calculate a rough estimate of your turnover cost quickly if you have access to the specific data elements for your agency or use industry averages. Taking the time to retrieve and enter data values that are specific to your agency will result in a more accurate turnover cost estimate, which will be more valuable to your agency’s strategic HR planning.

What does our agency do with the information from the calculator?

The departure of a trained, productive child welfare worker has a measurable financial impact on the organization. Once you have determined the financial impact that turnover is having on your agency, it should naturally lead to discussions of why staff leave and how much of the turnover can be prevented. Possible interventions designed to improve your recruitment, hiring, onboarding, training, supervision, or coaching can positively impact retention. Knowing what your annual turnover is costing your agency will help you evaluate the relative return on investment of potential strategies to improve retention. You can calculate a rough estimate of your turnover cost quickly if you have access to the specific data elements for your agency or use industry averages. Taking the time to retrieve and enter data values that are specific to your agency will result in a more accurate turnover cost estimate, which will be more valuable to your agency’s strategic HR planning.

What does the QIC-WA do with the data we enter into the calculator?

Nothing. The QIC-WA does not save your data.

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Cost of Turnover Calculator

Overview of the Cost of Turnover Calculator

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