Time-tracking software

Time-tracking software are computer programs that allows users to record time spent on tasks or projects.

Time-tracking software may include time-recording software, which uses user activity monitoring to record the activities performed on a computer and the time spent on each project and task.

Multiple industries utilize time-tracking software, including those that employ freelancers and hourly workers such as lawyers and accountants, where historically timesheets may have been used.

Time-tracking tools are used stand-alone or integrated with other applications like payroll, billing, project management, customer support, accounting, and scheduling software.

Types of time-tracking software

Time-tracking software can be categorised into timesheet and time-recording software.

Timesheet software

Timesheet software is software used to maintain timesheets. It was popularized when computers were first introduced to the office environment with the goal of automating heavy paperwork for big organizations.^[1] Timesheet software allows employees to enter time spent performing different projects and tasks.

Time-tracking/recording software

Time-tracking/recording software automates the time-tracking process by recording the activities performed on a computer and the time spent on each of them, including the usage of applications, documents, games, websites, etc.^[2]

Time-tracking methods

There are several ways companies track employee time using time tracking software.

Durational

Employees enter the duration of the task but not the times when it was performed.

Chronological

Employees enter start and end times for the task.

Automatic

The system automatically calculates time spent on tasks or whole projects, using a connected device or a personal computer, and user input using start and stop buttons. Users can retrieve logged tasks and view the duration, or the start and stop times.

Exception-based

The system automatically records standard working hours except for approved time off or LOA.

Clock-in clock-out

Employees manually record arrival and departure times.

Monitoring

The system records active and idle time of employees. It may also record screen captures.

Location-based

The system determines the working status of employees based on their location.

Resource-scheduling

By scheduling resources in advance, employees schedules can be easily converted to timesheets.

Benefits of time-tracking software

Tracking time can increase productivity, as businesses can track time spent on tasks and get a better understanding of what practices cause declined employee productivity.^[3] Time tracking software can enhance accountability, by documenting the time it takes to finish given tasks.^[4] The data is collected in database and could be used for data analysis by the human resources departments.^[5] Features offered by time-tracking software include:

• Automatic generation of invoices to the professional's clients or customers based on the time spent.
• Tracking of cost overruns for fixed cost projects.
• Workforce management packages to track attendance, employee absences, human resources issues, payroll, talent management, and labor analytics.
• Tracking of productive and non-productive hours.
• Creating accountability and transparency between employers and employees.
• Evaluating the team's workflow.

See also

• Comparison of time-tracking software
• Computer surveillance
• Employee-scheduling software
• Meeting scheduling tool
• Project-management software
• Schedule (workplace)
• Time and attendance
• Time management

References

1. Raymund Flandez (23 August 2004). "Unanet's Software Lets Managers Watch Work in Progress". Washington Post. p. E05. Retrieved 21 June 2013.
2. "10 Time-Tracking Apps That Will Make You More Productive In 2014". fastcompany.com. 6 January 2014.
3. Brooks, Chad. "Does Your Business Need Time Tracking Software?". Business News Daily. Retrieved 21 October 2014.
4. "Deltek builds time-tracking offerings with new acquisition". Washington Technology. 2023-05-25. Retrieved 2023-10-10.
5. "Time Tracking Software Essay". AT. July 2, 2013. Retrieved 18 July 2013.