Time tracking systems individually reflect information for each employee, such as work schedules, shifts, and vacations. This information can be very valuable as it gives us greater control over the productivity and performance of each worker.
The schedule involves a start and end time each day in performing tasks, and with its control, we can see various aspects such as punctuality, which remains a highly valued quality by companies.
There are different types of time tracking, such as biometric systems, smart cards, magnetic stripe cards, barcode cards, etc. Most of these solutions allow attendance control but do not provide data about real activity (working time). Other tools, such as time tracking software or work schedule management software, offer more indicators.
Time control also facilitates payroll management and the control of overtime hours.
This time control also helps us know the number of operators needed for each process, establish work plans, control and establish productivity incentives, and calculate production costs.
It is important to make employees aware that time tracking is beneficial for them. It is not about controlling employees but rather allows for evaluating workload distribution and better allocation. Therefore, time control, contrary to what many might think, is necessary for any type of work and organization.
Time tracking: Yes or No?
First of all, it should be mentioned that the new time tracking law requires companies to keep a record of employees’ work hours. Any time control system we have should provide a greater benefit than the effort it requires, making it very important for users or workers to be informed of the procedure and regulations to follow.
Therefore, we can discuss the following advantages for workers and companies in implementing a time tracking tool:
- Control of absenteeism
- Reduction of operational costs
- Integration with payroll software
- Time savings when accounting for overtime, with a consequent reduction in administration time
- Compliance with regulations and thus prevention of occupational risks
- Reduction of idle times and optimization of time
- Avoidance of injustices among workers
- Assistance in identifying problems caused by poor time control
On the other hand, the disadvantages of time control can be:
- Cost of installation and maintenance
- Time dedicated to reading information and preparing reports
Before choosing among the multitude of time control tools, it is important to know the company’s needs and look for a system that can simplify the way information is handled while being effective, reliable, comprehensive, and secure.
The impact of time control on employees is not usually positive at first, but nothing could be further from the truth. For people, a time control tool helps justify their efforts and daily dedication. We should see time tracking as a transparent tool aimed at solving other productivity problems.
Choosing software for time tracking
As an alternative to commonly used controls, we find work schedule management software, which are much more advanced solutions. These are especially designed for companies with employees who spend most of their time in the office using technological devices.
Some of this software, such as WorkMeter’s time management software, is installed on employees’ computers and automatically records entry and exit times and real activity. These solutions are less strict, do not give the feeling of being overly controlled, and provide much more data than any attendance control tool.
Additionally, these programs offer indicators (such as real activity) that allow us to improve productivity and optimize time. This type of software is usually very collaborative and transparent. Employees can always check how they spend their time.
Managers can easily visualize workloads and optimize task distribution. Additionally, their use reduces administrative tasks as they provide multiple reports to the HR and administration departments.
Thus, with these programs, besides knowing if we meet the schedule, we can organize our time better to help us increase productivity. Achieving objectives makes us feel more satisfied and work more comfortably, avoiding stress.
