Time Clock software: purchase guide
What is online time clock software?
Definition
Time clock software has been specially designed to simplify production management. To do this, they automate the monitoring of employees' schedules. They allow the manager to better supervise the production of staff, thanks to a meticulous management of working time.
How does it work?
Working time management tools generally work in conjunction with different devices: rfid badges, biometric identification or electronic time clock. At each visit, the back-office will be updated according to arrival times, break times and departure times of the staff. The monitoring of working time is done in real time.
These devices replace the traditional score sheet. They also avoid falsifications. They are easy to use and save considerable time in counting actual working time.
What are the main features of a SaaS time clock software?
The functionalities of this type of program are based on the essential elements of the internal organization of work.
Creating employee accounts
With a simple click, this tool allows you to design an employee record. This process must be carried out at the level of the competent agents who define the working hours of each employee. Normal entry and exit times must be specified in advance and may be modified according to established agreements.
Real-time time clock
This type of solution must include a real-time monitoring function. With this option, the manager is in a position to see directly the arrival and departure times of each employee. All he needs to do is access his back office and activate the program. Systematically, the times will be recorded.
Sharing of time clock cards
To make employees aware of their delays and attendance, this type of program supports the sharing of statistics. Managers will have at their disposal the necessary tools to plan the communication of this data, which generally includes missing hours, overtime, etc.
Who uses time clock software?
This software is primarily intended for companies for which the working time of employees must be closely monitored. This does not mean that you always need a large infrastructure to use it. SMEs may need this type of installation, as do ITEs equipped with turnstiles and badge readers. There are currently many tools available to cover all the needs of companies.
Why use time clock software in a company?
If companies use this type of program, it is because it has many advantages. Here is an overview of the positive points and limitations of this type of software:
Advantages
- Automation of work time monitoring
- Creating multiple administrator accounts
- Clear and detailed reports and statistics of inputs and outputs
- Easy data import and export
- Quick scheduling of working hours
- Access control
Disadvantages
- Limited features for free versions
How to choose an online time clock software?
The equipment: Before choosing a time clock software, it is necessary to make an assessment of the physical equipment already in place. Are there turnstiles or badge readers? Are employees equipped with rfid badges or are their fingerprints sufficient? Does the company want to manage access to certain areas at the same time?
Sector of activity: the sector of activity of a company plays an important role in the choice of this program. It is necessary to check that the software takes into account the specificities of your activities (flexible hours, night work, part-time...).
Customer support: remote assistance can be integrated into the offer. It all depends on the package. Verification is required to see if the subscription supports online, phone or chat support. In general, this service is available 5 days a week, during well-defined hours.
Interconnection with other software: Some time clock tools are compatible with payroll software, which allows for better pay management. No need to count working time anymore, the software takes care of it and the data is directly transmitted to the payroll software.
The best free and open source time clock software
The most popular time clock software
For VSEs
- Planday
- Initial Penelope
- Huchez clocks
- Cloki
- ATM
- Why Time
- oHRis
- EKeeper
For SMEs
- ePresence 2
- KooL
- B-Time
- Storhy
Working time management is beneficial for both a large company and an emerging team. To benefit from careful monitoring, it is always essential to use reliable scoring programs.
