Time-tracking software explained

Time-tracking software includes programs and applications that allows its users to record time spent on tasks or projects. Multiple industries utilize this type of software, including those that employ freelancers and hourly workers such as lawyers and accountants.

Time-tracking tools are used stand-alone or integrated with other applications like project management software, customer support and accounting. This software is intended to be the electronic equivalent of traditional paper timesheets.Unlike timesheet software, time-tracking software also includes time-recording software, which uses user activity monitoring (UAM) to record the activities performed on a computer and the time spent on each project and task.

Types of time-tracking software

Timesheet : Allows users to manually enter time spent on tasks.

Time-tracking/recording : Automatically records activities performed on a computer.

Time-tracking software can be:

• Standalone: Used only to record timesheets and generate reports.
• Integrated as part of:
  • Accounting systems, e.g. timesheet data fed directly to company accounts.
  • Billing systems, e.g. to generate invoices, especially for contractors, lawyers, etc.
  • Project management systems, e.g. timesheet data used by project management software to visualize the effort being spent on projects or tasks.
  • Payroll systems, e.g. to pay employees based on time worked.
  • Resource scheduling, e.g. bi-directional integration allows schedulers to schedule staff to tasks, which, once complete, can be confirmed and converted to timesheets.

Timesheet software

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

When used within companies, employees enter the time they've spent on tasks into electronic timesheets. These timesheets can then be approved or rejected by supervisors or project managers.

Since 2006, timesheet software has been moving to mobile platforms (smartphones, tablets, smartwatches, etc.) enabling better tracking of employees whose work involves multiple locations.

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. This software is intended to be an improvement over timesheet software. Its goal is to offer a general picture of computer usage. Automatic time-tracking/recording software records and shows the usage of applications, documents, games, websites, etc.

When used within companies, this software allows monitoring the productivity of employees by recording the tasks they perform on their computers. It can be used to help filling out timesheets.^[2]

When used by freelancers, this software can assist to create reports (e.g. timesheets and invoices) or to prove work that was done.

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

Notes and References

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