What to Look for in Time Tracking Software

Introduction

Employee time tracking can be very beneficial when used properly and with the proper tools. However, with so many different types of software out there, it is difficult to understand where the difference in each product actually lies.

Before implementing a time clock into your restaurant, there are a few factors to first consider. In order to make the best decision, you need to know what type of time tracking software is available and which will be a better fit for you and your team, and that is exactly what we are going to discuss in this article.

What is the Purpose of Time Tracking Software?

The right time and attendance software can make a manager's work life much easier, whereas the wrong kind of software may have very little effect.

The main reason why every company should use time tracking software is that it allows your operation to run much more smoothly and streamlines your timekeeping practices.

The main idea behind time tracking is to empower employees to take more accountability for their attendance and proficiency while at work.

With time tracking software, you will have all the necessary data available at your disposal. This information is valuable in more ways than you know, as it will remove roadblocks that may be affecting employee performance and create a much more suitable work environment for both management and employees.

When searching for the best time clock on the market, you will quickly learn that there is no shortage of options out there.

Most of the time, the different software available might sound quite similar to each other, but they can be widely different when it comes to functionality.

So, when it comes to choosing the right software for your organization, it all comes down to the key features that you require and believe are a necessity.

Here are the different types of time tracking options available.

Automation

This kind of software is basically the perfect digital memory tool, as it logs everything an employee does during work hours.

From the moment employees punch in/out, finish team projects, or any other tasks that go on in the restaurant, it records everything.

At the end of the day, the automated software creates a private timeline for each employee and that log becomes accessible to management and said employee. This ensures everyone is in the know of how time is spent while on the clock.

There are a lot of people who find time tracking inconvenient, especially when attempting to do the work manually with a pen and paper what a hassle! The old process of literally writing everything down and partially working off the honor system is not only time consuming, but it opens more opportunities for error and inaccuracies.

Although manual time tracking can be useful in certain cases cost-effectiveness for example automation is the way to go, especially when tracking a larger staff.

Manual input is completely removed from the equation, which allows employees to completely focus on their work without any distractions. Automation also removes inaccuracies and human error, which are clearly beneficial in a tremendous way.

Digital Time Clock

Time clocks are perhaps one of the most widely used approaches you can take when it comes to time tracking. It's straightforward, easy-to-use, and businesses that implement a time clock into their establishments save tons on labor costs.

With a time clock, you simply clock in when you start a shift and clock out when your shift is over. When employees punch in/out, they also do not need to worry about carrying around a punch card that needs to be stamped or an identification card that needs to be swiped every time they work.

Some companies also offer applications that are an added accessory to their software. These apps can be accessed on multiple devices, such as mobile phones, smart devices, and computers, and they are quite user-friendly when it comes to the user interface (UI).

In contrast to the dated ways of timekeeping, a time clock eliminates tedious tasks of converting worked hours with a decimal time clock calculator.

Mobile Tools & Applications

The best time tracking software often includes timesheet apps. The main idea behind these applications is that they digitize timesheet management and time tracking, as well as provide added features that are practical and beneficial. Timesheet apps also help you manage time across teams, projects, and more.

These tools only simplify time tracking and employees are easily able to acclimate themselves with the product.

Apps are also available on mobile devices, so employees are able to track how many hours they are logging each week.

Conclusion

As you can see, time tracking software is a quite broad term. If you are looking for the perfect time tracking software for your organization then you need to list out the features that you need. Ideally, the software you go with should include all platforms listed, including automation, time clock, and a timesheet app.

This is because it gives all parties the best experiences management and employees included. At the end of the day, you need to track your employees working hours and get work done without any interruptions.