--- title: "2027 Staffing Agency Strategic Planning: The 5 Steps to Start Now" description: Staffing agency strategic planning for 2027 starts now. Five steps to review performance, forecast client demand, and upgrade your technology. image: https://www.conexisvmssoftware.com/hubfs/1.%20MASTER%20MASTER%20Blog%20and%20Website%20Page%20IMAGES%202026/GOVERNMENT/govt%201200x627%20blogs/Government-woman-in-building-1200%20x%20627-35.jpg --- - [BOOK A DEMO](https://www.conexisvmssoftware.com/book-a-demo) - [TAKE A TOUR](https://www.conexisvmssoftware.com/self-guided-tour-of-conexis-vms-vendor-management-system-demo) [![Conexis Logo](https://www.conexisvmssoftware.com/hubfs/CONEXIS%20LOGO/ConexisLogo%20Square%20Green-Black-FINAL-1.svg) ![Conexis Logo](https://www.conexisvmssoftware.com/hubfs/CONEXIS%20LOGO/ConexisLogo%20Square%20Green-Black-V2.svg)](https://www.conexisvmssoftware.com/) [![Conexis Logo](https://www.conexisvmssoftware.com/hubfs/CONEXIS%20LOGO/ConexisLogo%20Square%20Green-Black-V2.svg)](https://www.conexisvmssoftware.com/) - VMS 101 - - [What is a VMS?](https://www.conexisvmssoftware.com/what-is-a-vendor-management-system-vms) - 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[Client Testimonials](https://www.conexisvmssoftware.com/testimonials) - [Case Studies](https://www.conexisvmssoftware.com/vms-vendor-management-system-case-studies) - [Take an Online 2 Min Tour](https://www.conexisvmssoftware.com/self-guided-tour-of-conexis-vms-vendor-management-system-demo) - CONTACT - - [Contact Us](https://www.conexisvmssoftware.com/contact) - [Book Private Consultation](https://www.conexisvmssoftware.com/book-a-consultation) - [Book a Demo](https://www.conexisvmssoftware.com/book-a-demo) - [Partner](https://www.conexisvmssoftware.com/partner-with-conexis-vms) - [VMS Education Center](https://www.conexisvmssoftware.com/vms-education-center) - [BOOK A DEMO](https://www.conexisvmssoftware.com/book-a-demo) - [TAKE A TOUR](https://www.conexisvmssoftware.com/self-guided-tour-of-conexis-vms-vendor-management-system-demo) 27 September 2026 # 2027 Staffing Agency Strategic Planning: The 5 Steps to Start Now [![Wayne Burgess](https://www.conexisvmssoftware.com/hs-fs/hubfs/Wayne100.png?width=30&height=30&name=Wayne100.png) Wayne Burgess](https://www.conexisvmssoftware.com/blog/author/wayne-burgess) - - - As staffing agencies prepare for Q4, it’s also time to set priorities for 2027. Reviewing performance, client demand, candidate engagement, and technology now gives your team time to act before the new year. ## What is staffing agency strategic planning? Staffing agency strategic planning is the process of reviewing the past year's performance, forecasting client demand, and setting growth, profitability, and technology goals for the year ahead. Most agencies do this in Q3 and Q4, when clients are finalizing their own staffing budgets. Companies that begin planning **4–6 months before the new year** are more likely to hit their goals. For staffing agencies, that means the time to prepare for 2027 is *now*. Here are five practical steps staffing agencies should take to prepare for 2027: --- ## Step 1: Review Your 2026 Business Performance Start with an honest look at your own business: which clients, roles, and verticals were most profitable this year, and which cost more to serve than they returned. - Which clients drove the best margins? - Where did fill rates drop? Did time-to-hire improve? - Which verticals grew vs. underperformed Agencies that evaluate these KPIs in Q3 and Q4 - rather than waiting until December - can spot patterns and make changes before 2027 begins. What to do now: Create a baseline dashboard and identify three performance gaps to address. --- ## Step 2: Forecast Client Demand for 2027 Many clients finalize their staffing budgets in Q4. Agencies that align with these cycles are better positioned to secure headcount allocations. Industries like [healthcare](https://www.conexisvmssoftware.com/vms-for-healthcare), [logistics](https://www.conexisvmssoftware.com/vms-for-logistics-warehousing-and-distribution), [manufacturing](https://www.conexisvmssoftware.com/vms-for-manufacturing), and retail continue to face unpredictable labor needs. Forecasting client demand this fall helps you build the right pipelines for 2027. Reach out to your clients and get on their calendars before clients finalize their 2027 plans, to gain an understanding of the skills and volume they anticipate.  What to do now: Build a client-by-client forecast with confirmed requirements, assumptions, and review dates. --- ## Step 3: Improve Candidate Engagement and Retention Candidate expectations evolve quickly, and agencies that adapt first usually win. Workers want **faster communication, transparent pay, and seamless onboarding**. By improving your candidate experience now, your agency can help reduce candidate drop-off and improve assignment readiness at client sites - giving you a competitive edge in 2027. Evaluate candidate communication tools based on integration with your existing systems, ease of use, and the communication gaps you need to address. What to do now: Review candidate drop-off, communication delays, onboarding completion, and assignment feedback. --- ## Step 4: Evaluate Your Current Staffing Technology. Does your current technology support your agency’s goals for 2027? Review your applicant tracking system (ATS), customer relationship management (CRM) platform, candidate communication tools, and vendor management system (VMS), where applicable. Look for gaps that create extra work or limit the service you provide to clients: - Are teams entering the same information into multiple systems? - Do disconnected tools slow down onboarding, approvals, timekeeping, or invoicing? - Can you access the reporting needed to evaluate performance and profitability? - Does your current VMS support your clients’ requirements and your agency’s growth plans? - Are you receiving the implementation support, training, and ongoing service you need? - Which verticals grew versus underperformed? If your agency uses a VMS to manage client workforce programs, consider whether it still meets your needs. Limited integrations, difficult reporting, poor usability, or slow support may be reasons to explore other options. Read our blog, **Is It Time to Switch Your VMS?**, to help assess your current platform. For agencies planning to expand into managed services or master vendor programs, evaluate whether a fully branded white-label VMS could support that strategy. What to do now: Identify your three most important technology gaps. Decide whether each can be addressed through better use of existing tools, integration, or a replacement platform. Assign an owner, budget, and target completion date so improvements align with your 2027 priorities. Related Reading: [Is it time to switch your VMS?](https://www.conexisvmssoftware.com/blog/switch-vendor-management-system) --- ## Step 5: Set Measurable Growth and Profitability Goals Instead of setting vague goals to “grow,” define measurable outcomes. Some examples may be:  - Increase placements by 20% - Set pricing targets that balance competitiveness with gross-margin requirements. - Add a new VMS line of business by partnering with a VMS that can white label - Improve profit margins by reducing delivery costs Finalizing budgets, goals, and responsibilities before year-end gives your team a clear starting point for January. If you want to learn more about identifying the Key Performance Metrics (KPIs) for Contingent Workforce, see our blog [4 KPIs for Your Contingent Workforce](https://www.conexisvmssoftware.com/blog/4-kpis-that-will-improve-your-temporary-workforce-contingent-management-program) What to do now: Give each goal a baseline, target, deadline, accountable owner, and review schedule. --- ## Final Thoughts Planning for 2027 should start now - not in January. By analyzing performance, forecasting demand, improving candidate engagement, and upgrading your technology this fall, your staffing agency will be positioned for success in the year ahead. If technology is part of your 2027 growth strategy, **Conexis VMS can help.** Our vendor management system was designed to help staffing agencies improve efficiency, cut costs, and deliver greater value to clients, and with our white-label VMS - grow your revenue.  ## Frequently Asked Questions ### **When should staffing agencies start planning for 2027?** Ideally in Q3 or early Q4. Many clients finalize their staffing budgets in the fall, so agencies that plan early can align with those cycles, secure headcount allocations, and have new technology in place before peak season. ### **What metrics should a staffing agency review during annual planning?** Focus on margin by client, fill rate, time-to-fill, worker retention, no-show rate, and revenue by vertical. Together these show which accounts to grow, which to reprice, and where delivery needs to improve.  ### **How can a VMS help a staffing agency grow in 2027?** A VMS helps agencies automate invoicing and compliance tracking, deliver real-time reporting to clients, and open a new line of business by offering clients a fully branded white-label VMS. ### **How long does it take a staffing agency to implement a VMS?** With Conexis VMS, most agencies are up and running in under 30 days, with free implementation and training included.  See our Conexis VMS [Staffing Agency Case Study](https://www.conexisvmssoftware.com/blog/white-label-vms-staffing-agency-case-study) ### **What growth goals should a staffing agency set for 2027?** Choose measurable targets, such as increasing placements by a set percentage, improving margin on your top accounts, reducing time-to-fill, or launching a new service line like a white-label VMS. ## Additional Reading - [Staffing Agency Master Vendor Programs](https://www.conexisvmssoftware.com/blog/how-a-vms-boosts-your-staffing-agency-master-vendor-program): How to Win or Maximize One With a VMS - [Types of Staffing Technology](https://www.conexisvmssoftware.com/blog/what-is-contingent-workforce-management-software): VMS, Direct Sourcing, FMS and HRIS - [VMS for Staffing Agencies | Guide](https://www.conexisvmssoftware.com/vms-staffing-agencies-guide) ## Free Guide: 10 Ways to Grow Your Staffing Agency Revenue This free guide gives you the insights and strategies to future-proof your business and capture new revenue opportunities in the year ahead.  [![GROW YOUR STAFFING AGENCY REVENUE WITH A VMS](https://no-cache.hubspot.com/cta/default/7617376/13ccc700-6863-4113-9bbb-7dd09c3dfc25.png)](https://cta-redirect.hubspot.com/cta/redirect/7617376/13ccc700-6863-4113-9bbb-7dd09c3dfc25) --- ## What You’ll Learn in the Free Guide Our free guide - *10 Ways Staffing Agencies Can Grow Revenue with a Vendor Management System* - breaks down proven strategies your team can apply immediately: - How to position your agency as a **strategic partner**, not just a staffing vendor - Ways to **boost recruiter productivity** through automation - How to **improve client retention** with real-time reporting and data insights - Steps to **scale faster** - without adding headcount This is the roadmap to building a smarter, more profitable agency before 2027 arrives. ## The Conexis VMS Difference Conexis VMS is an [award-winning](https://www.conexisvmssoftware.com/conexis-vms-awards-and-recognition) vendor management system built for organizations that want the power of enterprise software without the complexity or cost. Leveraging the latest technology, Conexis VMS delivers the expertise, reliability and security of enterprise systems, while offering the flexibility, user friendliness and tailored, personal service you require. Learn more about our [Company](https://www.conexisvmssoftware.com/company) and what makes [Conexis VMS different](https://www.conexisvmssoftware.com/best-vendor-management-system-conexis). ## Discover the Power of Conexis VMS Conexis VMS is trusted by staffing agencies, MSPs and leading organizations to modernize and manage their contingent workforce programs. Here's why organizations choose Conexis VMS: - [Modern VMS Technology](https://www.conexisvmssoftware.com/best-vendor-management-system-conexis) - Built on the latest AWS microservices architecture and Open API - [Fast Implementation](https://www.conexisvmssoftware.com/blog/how-do-they-do-it-how-conexis-launches-a-vms-in-weeks-not-months) - Get up and running in under a month, free setup and training included - [Fully Branded White-Label VMS](https://www.conexisvmssoftware.com/blog/how-do-they-do-it-how-conexis-delivers-fully-branded-white-label-vms) - Your Logo. Your Domain. Your Branded Communication - [Flexible Pricing](https://www.conexisvmssoftware.com/pricing) - No setup fees, with free implementation, training and account management - [Personal Attention](https://www.conexisvmssoftware.com/vms-nps-customer-satisfaction-adoption) - Experienced senior account management from implementation onward ## Switching Your VMS or Just Getting Started? We work with teams at every stage, from first-time buyers to companies replacing outdated platforms that can't keep up. Either way, we'll show you what a modern VMS looks like, up and running in under 30 days. | [![Take a self-guided tour of Conexis VMS ](https://no-cache.hubspot.com/cta/default/7617376/6617fad0-9168-4a45-b474-c96a34628641.png)](https://cta-redirect.hubspot.com/cta/redirect/7617376/6617fad0-9168-4a45-b474-c96a34628641) | [![Book a private consultation with Conexis VMS](https://no-cache.hubspot.com/cta/default/7617376/838fcdf1-1e6b-4f38-94ca-546b5c3f500a.png)](https://cta-redirect.hubspot.com/cta/redirect/7617376/838fcdf1-1e6b-4f38-94ca-546b5c3f500a) | [![Book a Demo with Conexis VMS](https://no-cache.hubspot.com/cta/default/7617376/18db2c62-a34a-4454-8010-c1bfc7f5e559.png)](https://cta-redirect.hubspot.com/cta/redirect/7617376/18db2c62-a34a-4454-8010-c1bfc7f5e559) | | --- | --- | --- |   [![VMS for Staffing Agencies](https://no-cache.hubspot.com/cta/default/7617376/af02bb8d-e5a8-468f-8115-63073c9e76b1.png)](https://cta-redirect.hubspot.com/cta/redirect/7617376/af02bb8d-e5a8-468f-8115-63073c9e76b1)   ![Wayne Burgess](https://www.conexisvmssoftware.com/hubfs/Wayne100.png) #### Wayne Burgess Wayne Burgess is the Co-Founder of Conexis VMS, a technology company focused on helping organizations get control of their Contingent Workforce. ### Popular posts ![How Do They Do It? How Conexis Delivers Fast VMS Open API Integrations](https://www.conexisvmssoftware.com/hubfs/how%20do%20they%20do%20it-Conexis-VMS-Open%20api_%201200x627-44.jpg) ## [How Do They Do It? How Conexis Delivers Fast VMS Open API Integrations](https://www.conexisvmssoftware.com/blog/how-do-they-do-it-how-conexis-vms-open-apis-make-vms-integration-fast) [![read more](https://www.conexisvmssoftware.com/hubfs/6M%20Files/read-more.svg)Read More](https://www.conexisvmssoftware.com/blog/how-do-they-do-it-how-conexis-vms-open-apis-make-vms-integration-fast) 17 September 2026 ![How Do They Do It? How Conexis VMS Delivers a White-Label VMS](https://www.conexisvmssoftware.com/hubfs/1.%20MASTER%20MASTER%20Blog%20and%20Website%20Page%20IMAGES%202026/HOW%20DO%20THEY%20DO%20IT%20OPTIMIZED%201200/conexis-vms-white-label-vms-1200-627-60.jpg) ## [How Do They Do It? How Conexis VMS Delivers a White-Label VMS](https://www.conexisvmssoftware.com/blog/how-do-they-do-it-how-conexis-delivers-fully-branded-white-label-vms) [![read more](https://www.conexisvmssoftware.com/hubfs/6M%20Files/read-more.svg)Read More](https://www.conexisvmssoftware.com/blog/how-do-they-do-it-how-conexis-delivers-fully-branded-white-label-vms) 24 June 2026 ![How Do They Do It? How Conexis VMS Can Launch in Under 30 Days](https://www.conexisvmssoftware.com/hubfs/1.%20MASTER%20MASTER%20Blog%20and%20Website%20Page%20IMAGES%202026/HOW%20DO%20THEY%20DO%20IT%20OPTIMIZED%201200/conexis-vms-implementation-1200-627-59.jpg) ## [How Do They Do It? How Conexis VMS Can Launch in Under 30 Days](https://www.conexisvmssoftware.com/blog/how-do-they-do-it-how-conexis-launches-a-vms-in-weeks-not-months) [![read more](https://www.conexisvmssoftware.com/hubfs/6M%20Files/read-more.svg)Read More](https://www.conexisvmssoftware.com/blog/how-do-they-do-it-how-conexis-launches-a-vms-in-weeks-not-months) 1 June 2026 ### Subscribe to the Conexis Monthly Newsletter ![Conexis Logo - White](https://www.conexisvmssoftware.com/hubfs/CONEXIS%20LOGO/ConexisLogo%20Square-White-V2.svg "Conexis Logo - White") [![Conexis VMS Reviews](https://www.conexisvmssoftware.com/hubfs/www.conexisvmssoftware.png)](https://sourceforge.net/software/product/Conexis-VMS/) - [VMS BENEFITS](https://www.conexisvmssoftware.com/benefits-of-vendor-management-system) - [PRICING](https://www.conexisvmssoftware.com/pricing) - [COMPANY](https://www.conexisvmssoftware.com/company) - [CONTACT](https://www.conexisvmssoftware.com/contact) - [CONEXIS VMS](https://www.conexisvmssoftware.com/best-vendor-management-system-conexis) - [LEARN](https://www.conexisvmssoftware.com/vms-vendor-management-system-resources) - [TAKE A TOUR](https://www.conexisvmssoftware.com/self-guided-tour-of-conexis-vms-vendor-management-system-demo) - [BOOK A DEMO](https://www.conexisvmssoftware.com/book-a-demo) ![icon-map-marker](https://www.conexisvmssoftware.com/hubfs/6M%20Files/icon-map-marker.svg)**USA** 350 S NW Highway, Suite 300 Park Ridge, IL 60068 ![icon-map-marker](https://www.conexisvmssoftware.com/hubfs/6M%20Files/icon-map-marker.svg)**Canada** 100 King Street West, Suite 5600 Toronto, ON, M5X 1C9 ![phone-icon](https://www.conexisvmssoftware.com/hubfs/2021/Images/icon-phone.svg)[(312) 776-2006](tel:13127762006) ![SIA\_Corporate Member Logo](https://www.conexisvmssoftware.com/hs-fs/hubfs/SIA_CM_Member_2018%20copy.jpg?width=300&height=74&name=SIA_CM_Member_2018%20copy.jpg)   Copyright © 2026 Conexis VMS - All Rights Reserved. | [Privacy Policy](https://www.conexisvmssoftware.com/privacy-policy) ```json { "@context" : "http://schema.org/", "@type" : "BlogPosting", "author" : { "@type" : "Person", "name" : "Wayne Burgess" }, "dateModified" : "2026-09-30T1:33:44 AM", "datePublished" : "2026-09-27 04:00:00", "description" : "Staffing agency strategic planning for 2027 starts now. 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