For all the joys of running a small business, there are inevitably some challenges to overcome. In those early startup stages, resources are tight. Time, staff, budget – you’re working with limited stock, so it’s essential to streamline operations so that nothing is wasted.
One surefire way to effectively manage deadlines, expenditures, and employee working hours is to invest in time tracking software for small businesses. In fact, the industry is overflowing with modern technology that does far more than just track working time.
With task and project management capabilities, payroll integration, and reporting analytics, small businesses can optimize all their workflows.
This guide explores the core features you need, the best solutions, and some top tips for introducing your team to employee time tracking platforms.
Remote workers and businesses that rely mostly on time-based projects know how important it is to be able to properly track time. Before the introduction of cloud-based time trackers this was a logistical nightmare. But nowadays users have solutions like Hubstaff, a leader in time tracking and project management options since 2013. With Hubstaff, users can kill two birds with one stone: not only do they get a simple and reliable time tracking app that works on all major platforms, but they are also given access to an online account manager that properly records work time and generates various reports based on that data. However, Hubstaff is more than just a simple time tracker as it also provides various customization options for the organization’s admin as well as unique and useful features like invoicing or a separate tab for requesting time off. And to make the deal even sweeter, Hubstaff offers a free plan tailored to freelancers and powerful paid plans for which multiple types of discounts are available.
Homebase is an all-in-one platform that redefines team management and time tracking for businesses of all sizes. From effortless time tracking through different devices to real-time collaboration tools that keep everyone on the same page, the provider eases the stress of managing teams.
Seamless integrations with payroll, e-commerce, and business tool software, plus powerful add-ons like payroll and task management, mean that users can further customize the platform to suit their specific needs.
The free plan covers the basics, while advanced plans range from $20 to $80 per month per location. You can save up to 20% with annual commitments, and a 14-day free trial is available to explore and test out the platform risk free.
Feeling the need for non-intrusive and straightforward tracking software, CAKE.com launched the first of its three productivity apps, Clockify. Fast forward to today, and it’s one of the most popular time tracking platforms on the market.
Based on the fact that Clockify is a free app that supports an unrestricted number of users and unlimited time tracking, it’s not surprising that it’s gained so much traction since its release. Usually, when something is free online, you’re the product.
But that’s not the case with Clockify. The team behind this user-friendly platform developed several (paid) advanced features, which were able to attract enough customers to cover all expenses. In addition to a built-in project manager and extensive user management, Clockify also offers access to customized reporting and a kiosk mode for as little as $3.99 per seat per month. The best part is that it’s possible to try out all paid features through the 7-day free trial.
In any business, problems related to time wastage, inaccurate billing, and staff accountability will always rear their head at some point. In a small company, however, the consequences can be far more damaging, especially if resources are limited.
These problems can be reduced for small businesses through the benefits of time tracking software:
Many time tracking tools exist, but not all are designed with small businesses in mind. To cover all your bases, look for these key features:
Many work-related tasks can be conducted via a phone or tablet, so your time tracking software must have multi-device compatibility.
Some team members require on-the-go time tracking that isn’t limited by internet access or location restrictions. If you run a field service company, it‘s worth trying out free trials and downloading the apps to check that they function well everywhere.
Of course, cost is a huge factor, especially for small businesses. This software may feel like less of a necessity than other expenses, but it will save you money in the long run with time wastage costs reduced to a minimum.
Always check that your existing platforms are compatible with the time tracking software, especially if you use payroll, accounting, CRM, and project management solutions.
Whichever services you rely on, be it QuickBooks, monday.com, or Paycor, syncing up your systems helps the smooth running of your business.
Ease of use is one of the most important elements to consider. The platform should be intuitive and require little employee training to start using it.
Investing in a platform that isn’t quite right can have significant consequences if you’re on a tight budget, so small businesses, in particular, should always run through this checklist before making a financial decision.
Assess your business needs: What do you need this technology for? Depending on your company, you may require comprehensive project management, invoicing, or GPS tracking tools.
Research: Make sure to read user and expert reviews to compare products carefully.
Consider your budget: Weigh up which features your company needs the most and what you can afford. Time tracking platforms come in all shapes and sizes, so find one that meets your requirements while not charging you for features you don’t need.
For all its benefits, we can’t deny that time tracking technology can be controversial. It’s easy for employees to jump to negative conclusions if its purpose isn’t properly explained.
To avoid making common mistakes when implementing time tracking software, follow these tips:
With the rise of AI, time tracking software will undoubtedly become even more sophisticated and helpful. By detecting patterns in tasks, this technology will be able to suggest time allocation for upcoming projects, further streamlining processes and boosting efficiency.
Innovative time tracking solutions are also likely to become more advanced in automation, reducing time spent manually inputting data and speeding up workflows. Increased integrations will likely become commonplace, helping time tracking software seamlessly connect with all business solutions.
The future of time tracking software is likely to see a shift from this technology being used mostly by remote and hybrid companies, to all kinds of work environments. With this in mind, small businesses should consider implementing these tools to start reaping the rewards of this rapidly evolving software.
On a surface level, it may seem that time tracking software isn’t crucial to the everyday running of small businesses and is a cost that can be avoided – but this isn’t necessarily true.
Time tracking tools for small businesses are designed to transform payroll processes, enhance team organization and management, and boost productivity. Minimizing risks of over- or under-payment and automating manual processes, the money spent on a subscription is ultimately reinvested in the company in the long run.
The first step is to explore reviews and take advantage of free trials, as this is the best way to get a grasp of which platform is best suited to your small business. Optimized time and team management are right around the corner!
The Best Reviews team researches and tests all products first-hand. We've been reviewing products and services since 2012 and are proud to only publish human-created content.
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