Last Reviewed: November 25th, 2024

Best Time and Attendance Software Of 2024

What is Time and Attendance Software?

Time and Attendance Software is a digital solution that streamlines employee time tracking and attendance management. It tackles the inefficiencies of manual methods, eliminating paperwork, reducing errors, and ensuring compliance with labor laws. This translates to improved accuracy in payroll processing, reduced time theft, and better control over labor costs. Key functionalities include clocking in/out, timesheet management, leave tracking, and reporting. Emerging features like GPS location tracking and integration with project management tools further enhance employee accountability and project visibility. HR teams, managers, and executives in all industries benefit from its improved efficiency, cost savings, and data-driven insights into workforce performance. However, limitations like potential employee resistance to digital tracking and dependence on reliable internet connectivity need consideration. Overall, Time and Attendance Software offers a valuable proposition for businesses seeking to optimize workforce management and gain control over labor costs.

What Are The Key Benefits of Time and Attendance Software?

  • Accurate Payroll
  • Reduced Time Theft
  • Simplified Compliance
  • Time-Saving Automation
  • Improved Workforce Visibility
  • Data-Driven Insights
  • Boosted Employee Productivity
  • Streamlined Leave Management
  • Cost-Effective Management
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Our Research Analysts evaluated 186 solutions and determined the following solutions are the best Time and Attendance Software overall:

Overall

  • 86 QuickBooks Time
    Best Overall, Dashboards & Reporting, Mobile Capabilities
  • 83 TimeClock Plus
    Best for Employee Scheduling, Leave & Absence Management
  • 79 When I Work
    Best for Compliance
  • 77 Buddy Punch
    Best for Leave & Absence Management, Time Tracking
  • 76 Clockify
    Best for Platform Capabilities, Project Tracking
  • 73 Time Tracker
  • 69 Hubstaff
  • 67 OnTheClock
  • 66 isolved Time
  • 62 Jibble
    Best for Integrations & Extensibility
QuickBooks Time  Award
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Why We Picked QuickBooks Time

QuickBooks Time emerges as a guiding light for small businesses seeking a straightforward solution. User reviews from the past year paint a picture of a platform celebrated for its user-friendly interface and seamless integration with other QuickBooks products, simplifying payroll and invoicing processes. The mobile app empowers employees to clock in and out from any location, promoting flexibility and accurate timekeeping. While QuickBooks Time may not boast the extensive feature set of some competitors, its core functionalities cater effectively to the needs of smaller teams. The drag-and-drop scheduling tools and geofencing capabilities streamline workforce management, ensuring that projects stay on track and within budget.

However, some users note that QuickBooks Time's pricing structure may present a challenge for businesses with larger workforces. The software's strength lies in its ability to simplify time tracking and scheduling for small businesses, but it may not offer the same level of scalability as alternatives like Clockify or When I Work. Ultimately, QuickBooks Time is a valuable asset for small businesses seeking an intuitive and efficient time and attendance solution. Its integration with the QuickBooks ecosystem and focus on core functionalities make it an ideal choice for teams of up to 10 employees looking to optimize their time management processes without the complexity of more comprehensive platforms.

Pros & Cons

  • Timesheet Flexibility: QuickBooks Time offers multiple ways to track time, including a mobile app with geofencing, a web dashboard, and a physical time clock. This allows employees to easily track their time from anywhere, and it gives employers the flexibility to choose the method that best suits their needs.
  • Project Tracking: The software allows users to track time spent on specific projects and tasks, which can be helpful for businesses that need to bill clients or track project profitability. This feature can also be used to identify areas where employees are spending too much time, so that processes can be improved.
  • Payroll Integration: QuickBooks Time integrates with QuickBooks Online Payroll, which can save businesses time and money by automating the payroll process. This integration can also help to ensure that employees are paid accurately for the time they have worked.
  • Scheduling: The scheduling feature allows managers to create and share schedules with employees, and it also allows employees to request time off. This can help to improve communication and reduce scheduling conflicts.
  • Reporting: QuickBooks Time offers a variety of reports that can help businesses to track employee time, project costs, and labor expenses. These reports can be used to identify trends, make better business decisions, and improve profitability.
  • Mobile App Issues: The mobile app has been reported to have issues with clocking in and out, as well as syncing data accurately. This can be frustrating for employees who rely on the app to track their time.
  • Customer Support Challenges: Some users have expressed dissatisfaction with the level of customer support provided by QuickBooks Time. Getting timely and effective assistance can be difficult, leading to frustration and unresolved issues.
  • Scheduling Limitations: The scheduling features in QuickBooks Time may not be as robust or flexible as some businesses require. This can make it challenging to create and manage complex schedules, especially for businesses with varying shift patterns or employee availability.
  • Integrations and Compatibility: While QuickBooks Time offers integrations with some payroll and accounting software, it may not be compatible with all systems. This can create challenges for businesses that use different software solutions and need seamless data transfer.

Key Features

  • Timesheets Tracking: Keep accurate time records in individualized employee sheets. Clock hours and wages in one streamlined platform for increased employee accuracy and administrator oversight. 
  • Mobile Compatibility: Download the mobile app for remote employee access to time records and approvals, even without available Wi-Fi and cell phone coverage. View multiple timesheets and employee locations from the Crew app for administrators. Integrate project tracking, scheduling and PTO approvals and sync with the desktop version. 
    • Universal Internet Connection: Use the Time Kiosk on any internet-enabled computer or tablet for increased tracking functions. Use image captures to discourage falsified clock-ins. 
  • Location Information: Enable GPS location tracking for real-time employee location updates. Use geofencing to remind employees to clock in and out on job sites. Log and reimburse mileage records. 
  • App Integration: Merge timekeeping functionality with leading bookkeeping, payroll, invoicing and project management software for complete HR and employee management support. Sync schedules with Google, Microsoft and Apple calendars. 
  • Time Notifications: Customize alerts to receive notifications for overtime, mismatched time stamps and clock-in failures. 
  • Instant Reporting: Summarize time, labor, earned pay and project timelines in one automated report. Predict future expenses and labor timelines with real-time data adjustments. 
    • DCAA Assistance: Stay compliant with labor and contract regulations with auditing features. Approve and edit time tracking for itemized government contracts. 
TimeClock Plus  Award
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Why We Picked TimeClock Plus

TimeClock Plus is a popular time and attendance solution for medium and large businesses that require comprehensive time tracking. With 24/7 customer support, it’s ideal for teams working in various time zones with remote employees.

Some standout features of TimeClock Plus are its built-in biometric scanners and geofencing capabilities that help managers prevent inaccuracies and reduce time theft. Its mobile app helps overcome schedule conflicts and missed time entrees with mobile clocking in, time off requests, and shift change requests.

Extensive customization options let managers tailor the platform to their specific needs. Despite some initial learning curves and pricing considerations, its features and scalability make it a valuable investment for businesses looking to optimize their time management processes.

Users praise TimeClock Plus for its user-friendly platform and reliable, around the clock customer support, however, some users report occasional app glitches and a cumbersome implementation process.

Currently, TimeClock Plus doesn't offer a free trial. The pricing structure is per month, per user, starting at $2.50.

TimeClock Plus also integrates with payroll providers like Paychex Flex and QuickBooks.

Overall, it’s a robust time and attendance tracking solution with leave management, scheduling, reporting and customization features.

Pros & Cons

  • 94% commend customer support for their availability, responsiveness and professionalism.
  • 89% of users found time tracking easy, convenient and accurate.
  • 77% of users consider the platform user-friendly, with an intuitive interface and easy navigation.
  • 70% of users appreciate its high level of customization; the software offers configurations for a more tailored fit solution.
  • While most report the interface is user-friendly, 25% of users say there's a learning curve, and it can be confusing initially.
  • Some users note that features are interconnected, making changes potentially impactful elsewhere, and many features require multiple settings for correct functionality.
  • 67% of users report the reporting feature could be more robust and currently lacks the option to round time on reports.
  • For specific needs like computing overtime on holidays, some users find limitations, leading to manual adjustments.

Key Features

  • Scheduling: Utilize automated features to build, schedule and update shifts seamlessly. Employ AI-powered forecasting to determine staffing needs and visualize real-time coverage accurately. Automate scheduling through Humanity or Aladtec.
  • Mobile Support: Clock in and out, submit time-off and shift-change requests, and send messages all from iOS or Android devices.
  • Authentication: Enhance security and prevent time theft with built-in biometric scanners, image captures and geofencing.
  • Badge Reader: Simplify employee access without compromising on security with badge reader options. Use barcode scanning, magnetic swiping, or RFID proximity so employees can wave their badges for touchless time entry.
  • Web Clock: Clock in and out through the browser. Through the online portal, employees can also view messages, requests and accrual balances. (Physical time clocks are also available and integrated with the web portal).
  • Thermal Sensor: Enable touchless time clocks and scan temperatures in seconds. Thermal sensors assess deviations from baseline temperatures, and admins have the option to add additional screening questions.
  • Payroll Integration: Access various pre-built integrations for payroll processing, including Paychex Flex and QuickBooks. Combine payroll and time tracking to save time on manual calculations and deductions while improving accuracy.
  • Self-Service: Employees can access shift trading, schedules and leave requests 24/7.
  • ERP Integrations: TimeClock Plus integrates with popular ERP providers including Oracle, Workday, SAP, ADP, PeopleSoft, Anthology, PowerSchool and Ellucian.
  • Substitute Management: Through InstaSub, provide real-time assignment postings to qualified substitutes via mass communications. Substitutes can accept assignments via text or mobile app and access self-service features for assignments, hours and lesson plans.
  • Conflict Monitoring: Ensure compliance with labor laws, union rules and regulations through conflict monitoring.

Pricing

License/Subscription Cost
  • On-premise: There is a one-time software and licensing fee per employee. There are also implementation and training costs, which are $225/hour. In addition, there is an option of paying about $350/year for software maintenance
  • Cloud-based/SaaS: TimeClock Plus charges yearly fees for each employee. In addition to the monthly charge, there’s a one-time setup fee
  • Offers three pricing plans: Express, Standard and Professional
  • Additionally, there’s a cost for the time clocks. The company offers a range of time clock options from $1,000 to $2,500
Maintenance Cost
  • On-premise: Cost is over and above the one-time software and licensing fee. Users need to pay $350/year for software maintenance
  • Cloud-based/SaaS: Included in the subscription fee
  • Customer support is available by phone, live chat and email between 7 a.m. and 7 p.m. CST Monday – Friday
  • Users can access the company’s FAQ page and knowledge base to find answers to common questions
Installation/Implementation Cost
  • For both types of deployment, cost is over and above the license/subscription fee
  • On-premise: implementation and training costs are $225/hour
  • Cloud-based/SaaS: one-time setup fee varies between $100 and $200 depending on the type of plan selected by the users
Customization Cost
  • Cost varies depending on the new functional requirements and modules added, based on users’ existing workflows
Data Migration Cost/Change Management/Upfront Switching Cost
  • Cost varies depending on the amount of data to be migrated, availability of migration tools, complexity of data and gaps between the existing and new system
  • TimeClock Plus integrates with more than 200 different payroll providers, including ACS, ADP, Paychex, QuickBooks, PayChoice and Rapid Pay
Training Cost
  • Cost is over and above the license/subscription fee
  • Provides training support in-person or via online training sessions, documentation and webinars
  • For an on-premise solution, training and implementation costs are $225/hour
Recurring/Renewal Costs
  • On-premise: cost is included in the time clock, customization, training and maintenance costs
  • Cloud-based/SaaS: cost is included in the monthly subscription fee based on the number of users/employees and the time clock cost
When I Work  Award
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Why We Picked When I Work

According to the reviews, users praise When I Work’s user-friendly design and all-in-one features for scheduling and time tracking. The customer support team is another win — responsive and helpful via chat and email. However, the pricing structure is a point of contention for some users, with complaints about hidden fees and a lack of transparency before signing up.

What truly set it apart was its affordability for small and medium businesses. The starter plan, costing just $1.50 per location per month, offers unlimited employee scheduling and auto-scheduling — features usually reserved for top-tier plans in competitors like 7Shift and Homebase.

However, communication features are restricted. During testing, I could send individual and group messages, but there's no bulletin board or newsfeed functionality, and message read receipts are absent.

Security is another concern. The platform lacks biometric clock-in options, opening the door to potential time theft through buddy punching. Additionally, it doesn’t support geofencing or GPS tracking. I couldn’t remotely track staff shifts to ensure they were following established procedures.

Overall, When I Work offers a compelling solution for small and medium businesses with a user-friendly interface, robust features and a budget-friendly starter plan. However, be mindful of the pricing concerns and other limitations, which can be a problem for growing teams and businesses.

Pros & Cons

  • Intuitive and Efficient: Users appreciate the user-friendly interface and comprehensive features that centralize managing all scheduling needs from a single app.
  • Prompt Customer Support: Users report getting timely and helpful assistance from the vendor’s support team through live chat and email.
  • Enhanced Employee Experience: The app boosts staff productivity by offering them flexible tools to control their work schedules.
  • Improved Integration and Accessibility: Most users have had a positive experience connecting the platform with other necessary third-party tools.
  • Pricing and Transparency Issues: Users have complained about the vendor’s pricing practices, which include hidden costs and a lack of clear information before signing up.
  • App Glitches: Users reported issues with iPhone and Android apps, particularly with tasks like staff punch-ins and location tracking using the phone’s GPS.

Key Features

  • Employee Scheduling: Create work schedules in one click based on employee availability and eligibility. View team availability, manage time off and track shift trades from one place. Allow employees to pick up and trade shifts while boosting workplace efficiency and productivity. Schedule multiple teams across job sites while preventing unnecessary overtime.
  • Time and Attendance: Track attendance, time off and breaks while turning any internet-connected device into an online time clock. Integrate schedules to control costs while applying pay rules. Implement an online time clock with a GPS facility for uniform clock-ins and outs across devices. Let remote employees log in and out using any device while receiving attendance data in real time.
  • Timesheets: Record weekly attendance changes into timesheets while setting differential pay rates for multiple positions. Monitor labor costs while auditing time records with labor distribution reports. Audit and approve timesheets from mobile or desktop while preventing overtime before it happens. Configure paid and unpaid breaks on schedule and time clock.
  • Shift Planning: Plan, swap and approve shifts using a mobile or desktop while empowering teams to collaborate on schedules. Ensure cost-effective shift coverage while creating schedules that work for the entire team.
  • Scalability: Start with a single team or location and scale to multiple teams across geographical locations as per business growth. Schedule multiple teams across various job sites.
  • Push Notifications: Send important messages to the entire staff in one go. Employees get email and text alerts for missed logins or outs. Notify all employees when you update or create new schedules.
  • Geo Check-In: Use GPS tracking and live map views to ensure that employees log in from their designated job sites. Monitor field staff’s real-time location, eliminating the need for employees to update their locations constantly in the office.
Buddy Punch  Award
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Why We Picked Buddy Punch

Buddy Punch appears to be a popular choice among businesses seeking a reliable time and attendance solution. Users frequently highlight its user-friendly interface, making it simple for employees to clock in and out, and for managers to track hours and generate reports. The software's geofencing capabilities have also received praise, allowing businesses to monitor remote employees and ensure they are working from designated locations. This feature is particularly valuable for businesses with a distributed workforce or those concerned about time theft.

While Buddy Punch receives generally positive feedback, some users note that the mobile app can occasionally be glitchy. Additionally, a few users mention that the reporting features could be more robust, particularly for larger organizations with complex reporting needs. Despite these minor drawbacks, Buddy Punch seems to be a good fit for small to medium-sized businesses across various industries, including construction, healthcare, education, and professional services. Its ease of use, affordability, and comprehensive features make it a valuable tool for managing employee time and attendance, ensuring compliance with labor laws, and streamlining payroll processes.

Pros & Cons

  • Facial Recognition: Buddy Punch offers facial recognition as a method for employees to clock in and out, which can help to prevent time theft and buddy punching.
  • Geofencing: Buddy Punch's geofencing feature ensures employees can only clock in or out when they are within a designated area, promoting accountability and preventing inaccurate timekeeping.
  • Integrations: Buddy Punch integrates with various payroll and HR software, streamlining processes and reducing manual data entry.
  • PTO Management: The platform simplifies paid time off (PTO) management, allowing employees to request time off and managers to approve or deny requests efficiently.
  • Overtime Calculations: Buddy Punch automatically calculates overtime based on company policies, ensuring accurate pay for employees and compliance with labor regulations.
  • Limited Customization: Buddy Punch may not be suitable for businesses with complex scheduling or payroll needs due to its limitations in customization options.
  • Mobile App Issues: Some users report experiencing occasional glitches or syncing problems with the Buddy Punch mobile app, which could impact the accuracy of time tracking data.
  • Customer Support: While Buddy Punch offers customer support, response times can vary, and some users have expressed a desire for more prompt and comprehensive assistance.

Key Features

  • Time Tracking: Get real-time insights into employee working hours. Monitor overtime while adjusting weekly and monthly schedules accordingly. Enable webcam and device lock features to ensure employees clock-in and out for themselves. Use a GPS tracker to monitor employee locations and limit punch sites. 
  • Employee Scheduling: Create employee schedules within minutes using drag-and-drop functionality. Copy previous schedules, add or remove shifts and notify teams of modifications. Send notifications to the entire staff or specific teams while ensuring everyone receives updates schedules. 
  • Payroll: Verify, review and enter timesheets within minutes. Forget manual entry and automate timesheet calculations. Compute payroll by entering hourly rates or unpaid time accruals, including sick leaves, vacation and PTOs. Simplify payroll by integrating with popular third-party modules. 
  • Reporting: Generate reports within seconds to get the big picture of individual employees, teams or departments. Get detailed insights, print or export reports, when required. Monitor employee work hours, locations, departments and overtime. Get a summary of employees present on a day, hours worked and accrued paid or unpaid time off. 
  • Accountability: Use image and GPS tracking to track employee work locations. Send push notifications for updated work schedules and forgotten punch-ins or outs. Monitor remote employee work locations while ensuring they work when required by specific IP addresses to each one. 
Clockify  Award
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Why We Picked Clockify

Clockify emerges as a beacon of simplicity and affordability. Users consistently highlight its intuitive interface, making it a breeze to track time, manage projects, and generate insightful reports. This ease of use is particularly beneficial for small businesses and freelancers who may not have dedicated IT support. Clockify's free plan with unlimited users is a game-changer, allowing teams of all sizes to experience its core features without financial constraints.

While Clockify excels in its core functionalities, some users note the absence of advanced features found in competitors like Asana or Monday.com. For instance, Clockify lacks robust task dependencies and automation capabilities, which can limit its effectiveness for complex project management workflows. Additionally, integrations with other business tools could be more extensive, although Clockify does offer basic connections with popular platforms like Google Calendar and Trello. Despite these limitations, Clockify's strengths lie in its straightforward approach, making it ideal for teams prioritizing time tracking and basic project management over intricate workflows. Its affordability and user-friendly interface make it a compelling choice for small businesses, freelancers, and teams seeking a reliable time management solution without the complexity of feature-rich alternatives.

Pros & Cons

  • Free Plan: Clockify offers a free plan with unlimited users, projects, and tracking, making it a cost-effective solution for individuals and teams of all sizes.
  • User-Friendly Interface: The platform is known for its intuitive and easy-to-use interface, allowing users to quickly track time, manage projects, and generate reports without a steep learning curve.
  • Cross-Platform Compatibility: Clockify is available as a web app, desktop app (Windows, Mac, Linux), and mobile app (iOS, Android), ensuring accessibility and flexibility for users across various devices.
  • Integrations: Clockify integrates with numerous popular project management, productivity, and communication tools, such as Trello, Asana, Jira, and Slack, streamlining workflows and data synchronization.
  • Reporting and Insights: The platform provides comprehensive reporting features, allowing users to gain insights into time usage, project progress, and team productivity, facilitating data-driven decision-making.
  • Limited Project Budgeting Features: Clockify's project budgeting capabilities may not meet the needs of all users, especially those requiring advanced features like budget forecasting or expense tracking.
  • Integrations: While Clockify offers integrations with popular project management tools, it may not have as extensive a range of integrations as some other time tracking solutions.
  • Mobile App Functionality: Some users have reported that the Clockify mobile app lacks certain features or has occasional performance issues.

Key Features

  • Time Tracking: A stopwatch allows time to be tracked while working. Time can be logged under specific projects and marked as billable. Time can also be added manually. 
  • Timesheet: Timesheets can be used not only to display logged time but also to predefine tasks, projects and schedules. Projects and assignments can be created and inserted into a worker’s timesheet ahead of time. Timesheet templates can be created for easy reuse and recurring assignments. 
  • Dashboard: Dashboards give users an overarching view of how time is spent. Visualizations make insights intuitively digestible. It breaks down team members and personal workload, with drill-down options into specific work sessions and data points.  
  • Reports: Customizable reports can be exported in three formats: PDF, CSV or Excel. They can be filtered by user, day and activity.  
  • Single Sign-On: SSO through the company’s authentication increases security. Only one set of credentials is needed, relieving companies from dependency on several databases and their security measures. 
  • Mobile Support: Apps on iOS and Android make time tracking mobile. It has offline capabilities, and any changes or recordings made offline automatically sync when a connection is restored. 
  • Custom Fields: Custom fields can be created to better describe jobs. Types of fields include text, numbers, switches, links and selection. Links allow access to external data points to help contextualize jobs. 
  • Time Auditing: Suspicious time entries are flagged for manager review. Entries that are too long, too short or missing information can be noted. 
  • Project Management: Project progress can be tracked and relevant metrics can be drilled into. Individual tasks and users can be tracked in a project context. Billable and nonbillable work is accounted for, and estimated cost and time spent are displayed.  
  • Integrations and API: It provides more than 50 integration options for increased functionality, and provides a REST API for creating more integrations, including company software. 
  • Pomodoro Timer: A Pomodoro timer is available as a browser extension and sends notifications when it is time for a break or to resume work, boosting employee productivity. 
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Why We Picked Time Tracker

Navigating the crowded landscape of time and attendance software can be daunting, but eBillity's Time Tracker has carved out a niche for itself over the past decade. Recent user feedback paints a picture of a tool with clear strengths and weaknesses, making it ideal for specific use cases.

Time Tracker receives consistent praise for its user-friendly interface and accurate timekeeping capabilities. Users appreciate the ability to easily manage employee time and attendance, whether they are in the office or working remotely. The software's integration with popular payroll and accounting platforms streamlines administrative tasks, saving businesses valuable time and resources. However, some users note a lack of advanced features compared to competitors like Timesheets.com, Jibble, and Rippling. Time Tracker's reporting capabilities and customization options may fall short for larger organizations with complex needs.

Time Tracker's simplicity and affordability make it a compelling choice for small businesses seeking a straightforward time and attendance solution. It effectively addresses the core needs of tracking employee hours and generating accurate timesheets, without the complexity and cost of feature-rich alternatives. For businesses prioritizing ease of use and seamless integration with existing systems, Time Tracker proves to be a valuable asset.

Pros & Cons

  • Timesheet Automation: Time Tracker automatically captures work activities, eliminating the need for manual timesheet entries and reducing the risk of errors or forgotten tasks.
  • Project Budgeting: The software provides insights into project timeframes and budgets, enabling better resource allocation and project management.
  • Client Billing: Time Tracker simplifies client billing by generating accurate invoices based on tracked time and expenses, ensuring transparency and efficiency.
  • Payroll Integration: The platform integrates with payroll systems, streamlining the payroll process and ensuring accurate compensation for employees.
  • Compliance: Time Tracker helps businesses comply with labor regulations by accurately tracking work hours and breaks, reducing compliance risks.
  • Limited Functionality: Time Tracker lacks features commonly found in other time and attendance systems, such as accrual tracking and the ability to manage time off requests.
  • Usability Issues: The user interface can be confusing and difficult to navigate, making it challenging for employees to track their time and for managers to generate reports.
  • Integrations: Time Tracker has limited integrations with other business software, such as payroll and HR systems, which can create additional manual work for businesses.

Key Features

  • Record Time: Submit time entries and track worked hours down to the second. Add time blocks to weekly timesheets and approve employee time submissions in one click. Avoid unplanned overtime with alerts and integrated time history edits. 
  • Mobile Apps: Download the free IOS and Android mobile apps to track and submit time remotely, even offline. Monitor who is clocked in with real-time geolocation tracking and monitored breaks. 
  • Location Verification: Log time entries with GPS tracking and real-time attendance status. Activate geofences to predetermine where and when employees and log time. Flag time entries that are out of range and accept or reject them. 
    • Increased Scope: Identify the IP addresses used by remote employees to clock in from home, the office or anywhere. 
  • Shift Accuracy: Avoid buddy punching with personalized employee pins and image capturing. Notify administrators if an entry is flagged. 
  • Scheduling Templates: Create daily, weekly and monthly individual schedules with pre-made templates, holiday exceptions and drag and drop scheduling blocks. Sync with personal calendars and alert employees to schedule changes with email notifications and in-app banners. 
  • Payments and Billing: Log billable hours expenses and receipts to create an accurate report before project billing. Generate batched expense reports and reimbursements. Create in-app invoices and track the progress from within the client portal. 
    • ACH Payments: Integrate automated clearing house Stripe and cut costs on transactions and additional credit card charges. 
  • Reporting Insights: Identify trends in logged hours, income growth, billable contractor hours and projected expenses with a customizable reporting dashboard. Export findings faster with automated reporting. 
  • Employee Time Management: Track sick leave, vacation and PTO requests. Receive notifications when administrators approve or reject them. Calculate overtime and receive reminders to submit time history. 
  • Popular Integrations: Sync platform data with leading accounting apps like QuickBooks, Gusto, Concur and Xero. 
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Why We Picked Hubstaff

Hubstaff, a time-tracking and productivity management software, has attracted a range of feedback from users. While many appreciate its user-friendly interface and comprehensive features, some have expressed concerns about its integration capabilities and customer support. Let's delve into the specifics.

Hubstaff's strengths lie in its detailed time tracking, insightful productivity analytics, and robust reporting tools. Users find these features particularly helpful for understanding where time is spent, identifying areas for improvement, and making informed decisions. The software's ability to track employee activity, including apps used and URLs visited, provides valuable insights into work patterns and potential distractions. Additionally, Hubstaff's project management capabilities, such as Kanban boards and agile project management tools, enable teams to streamline workflows and enhance collaboration. However, some users have noted that Hubstaff's integration with other systems could be improved, limiting its compatibility with existing workflows. Additionally, there have been some reports of inconsistent customer support experiences.

Hubstaff is well-suited for small to medium-sized businesses, especially those with remote teams or a need for precise project budget management. Its features cater to the specific challenges of managing a distributed workforce, providing transparency and accountability. However, larger enterprises with more complex requirements may find Hubstaff's functionality somewhat limited and may need to explore more robust solutions that offer greater customization and integration options. As the software landscape evolves rapidly, it's always recommended to check for the latest updates and reviews to make informed decisions.

Pros & Cons

  • Timesheet Automation: Hubstaff can automatically track time spent on tasks and projects, eliminating the need for manual timesheets. Hubstaff can also take randomized screenshots to help verify work hours.
  • Payroll and Invoicing: Hubstaff simplifies payroll and invoicing processes by automatically calculating employee hours and generating invoices based on tracked time. Hubstaff also offers integrations with popular payroll and accounting software.
  • Project Budgeting: Hubstaff helps businesses stay within budget by providing real-time insights into project costs. Hubstaff can also send alerts when projects are nearing their budget limits.
  • GPS Tracking: Hubstaff offers GPS tracking features for mobile teams, allowing businesses to monitor employee locations and ensure they are where they need to be. Hubstaff can also track mileage for expense reimbursement purposes.
  • Limited Customization: Hubstaff's reporting features may not be customizable enough for some users' needs, especially when it comes to exporting data in specific formats or generating custom reports.
  • Potential Privacy Concerns: Features like activity monitoring and screenshots can raise privacy concerns among employees, potentially leading to a sense of micromanagement and distrust.
  • Mobile App Limitations: The mobile app may lack some of the functionality available on the desktop version, which can be inconvenient for users who rely on their mobile devices for time tracking and task management.

Key Features

  • Timesheets: Timesheets are automatically built from employee punch-ins and punch-outs from applications or browsers. Timesheets can be edited by employees and approved or rejected by employers.  
  • Project Tracking: Time tracking can be broken down by project and task so employers can see exactly how much time is spent on each task. Individual tasks can be created by workers in-app while on the clock. 
  • Activity Tracking: Managers can track employee activity through keystrokes and mouse motion. Activity is displayed as a percentage, tracking activity for each second over a 10-minute period.  
  • Mobile Support: Mobile apps for iOS and Android allow employee tracking on the go. It can run in the background and relies on geofencing features to ensure employee productivity rather than activity levels. 
  • Scheduling: Managers can set team schedules and set employee shifts. Shifts can include hour limits, to-dos and specific task assignments. 
  • Payroll Management: It can utilize an employee’s timesheet and set pay rates to calculate paychecks. Reports of payments are automatically generated. Integrations allow pay issues to be handled completely automatically. 
  • Screenshots: The software allows for up to three screenshots to be taken within a 10-minute interval. Users and managers alike can see what screenshots were taken, and the feature is optional. 
  • Geofencing: Location services on mobile devices allow the app to track employee location and ensure they aren’t clocking in off-site. 
  • Reporting: Customizable reports give managers overarching views of their business and operations. Attendance, time off, locations and productivity trends can all be provided.  
  • Time Off Management: The software can implement time off policies, including holidays. Workers can have unique time off policies, and time off can be set by annual rates, accrual and negative balances. It also accounts for holidays. These can be implemented directly into the employee schedule.  
  • Notes: Managers and employees can leave notes on timesheet modifications, to-dos and others. Notes can be used to explain why a timesheet was altered, update progress on a project or leave a paper trail of any issues encountered. 
  • Integrations: More than 30 integrations allow in-depth and robust functionality. Integrations with platforms like Quickbooks enable payroll automation, and connections with Trello and others increase project tracking. 
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Why We Picked OnTheClock

OnTheClock, a cloud-based time and attendance software, has established itself as a practical solution for businesses seeking efficient employee time management. User feedback from the past year highlights its strengths in simplifying payroll processes, ensuring accurate timekeeping, and addressing common pain points associated with manual time tracking. The software's features, such as GPS tracking, PTO management, and clock-in restrictions, have been praised for their ability to enhance accountability and streamline operations. For instance, businesses with multiple job sites or remote employees find the mobile app and GPS functionality particularly beneficial in verifying employee locations and preventing time theft.

However, some users have expressed concerns regarding OnTheClock's pricing structure and the perceived limitations in its feature set compared to more comprehensive workforce management systems. While OnTheClock excels in core time and attendance functionalities, it may not offer the same level of depth in areas such as scheduling, project management, or advanced reporting as some competitors. Businesses with complex scheduling needs or those requiring extensive integrations with other business systems might find alternative solutions better suited to their requirements.

Overall, OnTheClock is well-suited for small to medium-sized businesses across various industries that prioritize accurate time tracking, simplified payroll, and improved workforce management efficiency. Its user-friendly interface, affordability for smaller teams, and focus on core time and attendance features make it a valuable tool for streamlining operations and ensuring compliance with labor regulations.

Pros & Cons

  • User Friendly: Nearly 97% of the users who talk about ease of use note that the software is user-friendly.
  • Cost: Affordability is a great advantage of OnTheClock, as reported by approximately 92% of users who mention product pricing.
  • Time Tracker: Nearly 81% of users who refer to the product’s core functionality recommend it for accurate time tracking.
  • Customer Support: About 89% of users who mention customer support report that customer support is responsive and knowledgeable with a friendly demeanor.
  • Payroll: 60% of users who talk about payroll mention that payroll integrations are seamless and save a lot of time for users.
  • GPS-based Logins: Approximately 70% of users who refer to GPS-based logins note that the ability to track locations helps monitor remote and on-site employers.
  • Reports: Getting quick, detailed and customizable reports is a positive trait for nearly 58% of users who mention reporting.
  • Paid Time Off / Vacations: 52% of the users who mention paid time offs and vacations feature report that the feature is glitchy.
  • Alerts: Approximately 62% of users who refer to alerts note that the system fails to alert users if they miss clocking in or out, leading to errors in time cards.
  • Interface: A clunky interface with complicated navigation is one of the biggest drawbacks of OnTheClock, as mentioned by nearly 77% of the users who refer to it.

Key Features

  • GPS Tracking: Ensure employee accountability through geo-fencing for clocking in and out and use the “Who’s In” feature to check who has clocked in/out from where on a given day and correct timecard mistakes. 
  • Fingerprint Scanning: Ensure the identity of the employee punching in and out with a browser-supported biometric device. 
  • Payroll Reporting: Integrate with leading payroll systems and export payroll reports and data in several formats such as Excel, CSV and PDF. 
  • Web-Based: Access the system, view changes and corrections in real time and get nightly data backups on any device with web browsing capability. Get app support for both Android and iOS devices for ease of access. 
  • Project Organizing: Organize projects with features like employee task selection and employee time tracking. Export project costing reports on completion. 
  • Shift Scheduling: Streamline and visualize employee schedules with an easy-to-use, drag-and-drop interface, notify employees in real time and allow automated clock ins and clock outs with tethered paid/unpaid options. 

Pricing

License/Subscription Cost
  • Subscription-based pricing model: based on the number of employees per month
  • Includes free admin/manager, free phone, email and chat support, free first month, phone app and no setup or cancellation fees
  • Optional modules such as SMS (text) messaging and fingerprint readers are provided at an additional cost
  • SMS (text) messaging: Costs $2/month to activate, plus 1 cent per sent SMS message
  • Fingerprint reader: There is a 50 cent charge per employee that uses fingerprint punching per month, with a $5 flat monthly rate
  • Offers a 10% discount for every referral, for 10 referrals or more, OnTheClock account becomes free. There are discounts for schools and education, government, and churches and nonprofits
Maintenance Cost
  • Included in the subscription fee
  • Provides phone, email and chat support
    • Standard hours: 8 a.m - 5 p.m. EST, Monday – Friday
    • Phone messages are monitored 24/7/365 for critical support
    • Email messages are monitored 24/7/365 for critical support
Installation/Implementation Cost
  • OnTheClock doesn’t charge any implementation, setup or admin/manager fee
Customization Cost
  • Cost varies depending on the functional requirements and modules added
Data Migration Cost/Change Management/Upfront Switching Cost
  • Cost varies depending on the amount of data to be migrated, availability of migration tools, complexity of data and gaps between the existing and new system
Recurring/Renewal Costs
  • Cost is included in the monthly subscription fee based on the number of users, add-ons and customizations
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Why We Picked isolved Time

Reviews from the past year paint a picture of a product that excels in its ease of use, flexibility, and scalability, making it a valuable asset for businesses of all sizes. Users consistently highlight the intuitive interface and straightforward functionality, allowing employees and managers to quickly adapt and maximize productivity. The software's ability to accommodate diverse work environments, from remote teams to on-site staff, further solidifies its position as a versatile solution. This adaptability extends to its seamless integration with existing payroll and HR systems, streamlining processes and providing a holistic view of employee data.

While isolved Time receives accolades for its comprehensive features and user-friendly design, some reviews point out areas for potential improvement. Several users express a desire for more advanced reporting and analytics capabilities to gain deeper insights into workforce trends and optimize decision-making. Additionally, while the mobile app offers convenience for employees on the go, some find its functionality to be slightly limited compared to the web-based platform. Despite these minor drawbacks, the overall consensus remains overwhelmingly positive, with users emphasizing the significant impact isolved Time has had on their organizations' efficiency and bottom line.

isolved Time distinguishes itself from competitors by striking a balance between robust functionality and user-friendliness. Its intuitive interface and comprehensive features cater to businesses seeking a solution that is both powerful and easy to implement. The software's scalability ensures it can grow alongside a company's evolving needs, while its cost-effectiveness makes it an attractive option for organizations with budget constraints. isolved Time is particularly well-suited for businesses with diverse workforces, including remote and mobile employees, due to its flexible time tracking options and cloud-based accessibility. Its ability to integrate with existing HR and payroll systems further enhances its value proposition for companies seeking a streamlined and unified approach to workforce management.

Pros & Cons

  • Streamlined Time Tracking: isolved Time simplifies the process of tracking employee hours, including regular work hours, overtime, and time off. This can help to improve payroll accuracy and efficiency.
  • Reduced Compliance Risk: The platform helps businesses comply with labor laws and regulations, such as the Fair Labor Standards Act (FLSA), by automating timekeeping and payroll processes. This can help to reduce the risk of costly compliance violations.
  • Improved Employee Engagement: isolved Time's self-service features empower employees to manage their own time and attendance information, such as requesting time off and viewing their schedules. This can lead to increased employee satisfaction and engagement.
  • Data-Driven Insights: The platform provides businesses with valuable insights into employee time and attendance data, such as labor costs, overtime trends, and employee productivity. This information can be used to make informed decisions about workforce management.
  • Limited Customization: isolved Time's scheduling features may not be granular enough for complex workforce management needs, especially for businesses with variable shift patterns or unique scheduling requirements.
  • Mobile App Limitations: The mobile app's functionality may not be as comprehensive as the desktop version, potentially hindering employees' ability to manage their time and schedules effectively while on the go.
  • Integrations: While isolved Time offers integrations with various payroll and HR systems, there may be limitations or compatibility issues with certain third-party software, potentially requiring additional configuration or custom development.

Key Features

  • Scheduling:  Access information about employee hours, shift differentials and set workforce rules to build schedules that guarantee employees don’t work overtime unless previously approved. 
  • Employee Self-Service:  Employees can clock in and out for shifts directly through the web-based platform as well as access the schedule to see which shifts they’re scheduled for, reducing the number of missed shifts. 
  • Multiple Time Clock Options:  Employees can clock in directly through the web-based platform, from their phones with the mobile time tracking solution or on-premise with physical time clocks. isolved Time’s physical time clocks are fully equipped with touch screens, USB and biometric options to prevent buddy-punching errors. 
  • Payroll Integration:  Automatically track time cards, calculate hours worked and import to payroll processing to ensure accurate and timely payroll calculations for each pay period. 
  • Benefits Management:  Track factors such as vacation hours, sick time and holidays automatically. 
Jibble  Award
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Why We Picked Jibble

Navigating the realm of time and attendance software can feel like searching for a needle in a haystack, but Jibble appears to stand out from the crowd, according to user feedback. Reviewers consistently praise Jibble's user-friendly interface, highlighting its intuitive design and ease of setup. One user, from a legal services firm with 201-500 employees, described the platform as "incredibly easy to navigate and understand," emphasizing the clean layout and clearly labeled features. This ease of use is crucial for businesses seeking a time and attendance solution that can be quickly adopted by employees without extensive training or technical expertise.

Jibble's flexibility also receives high marks from users. The software caters to businesses of all sizes and offers customization options to meet specific needs. While some reviewers note that the customization options could be more extensive, the platform's ability to adapt to various workflows is a significant advantage. For instance, a user from a computer software company with 51-200 employees mentioned using Jibble daily for over two years and appreciated its adaptability to their evolving requirements. This flexibility ensures that Jibble can grow alongside a business, accommodating changing needs and processes.

Jibble seems well-suited for businesses of all sizes seeking a user-friendly and adaptable time and attendance solution. Its intuitive interface, customization options, and scalability make it a valuable tool for streamlining workforce management and enhancing productivity. However, potential users should carefully evaluate their specific customization requirements to ensure that Jibble aligns with their needs. As with any software, exploring available options and considering factors such as budget and desired features is essential before making a decision.

Pros & Cons

  • Facial Recognition: Facial recognition technology allows for quick and accurate clock-ins, eliminating the need for manual time tracking.
  • GPS Tracking: GPS tracking capabilities enable businesses to monitor employee locations and ensure accountability, especially for remote or field-based teams.
  • Timesheet Approvals: Streamlined timesheet approval processes allow managers to efficiently review and approve employee hours, reducing administrative burdens.
  • Project Tracking: Jibble's project tracking features enable businesses to allocate employee time to specific projects, providing insights into project costs and resource allocation.
  • Payroll Integration: Integration with payroll systems simplifies payroll processing by automatically transferring employee hours and earnings data, reducing manual data entry and potential errors.
  • Limited Functionality in Free Plan: The free plan lacks essential features like timesheet approvals, project time tracking, and integrations, making it unsuitable for businesses with even moderate time and attendance tracking needs.
  • Facial Recognition Issues: Facial recognition, a key feature for touchless clock-in, has been reported as unreliable by some users, leading to frustration and potential inaccuracies in time tracking.
  • Mobile App Limitations: The mobile app's functionality is restricted compared to the web version, hindering on-the-go time management for employees and supervisors.

Key Features

  • Automated Timesheets: Jibble lets administrators log in anytime and monitor their team members’ activities and time spent to complete a specific task. Track the number of hours employees need to complete their assigned tasks, and when they started or finished their work. Generate automated timesheets for every employee along with deductions and overtime computations to simplify payroll calculations. 
  • Team Statistics: Employers get daily or weekly updates on their team’s behavior and activities. Managers can receive details on tasks completed by employees, project status and overtime hours delivered to their inbox. Detailed statistics of an individual employee can be obtained for performance reviews. 
  • Detailed Reporting: Gain useful insights into billable hours. Generate detailed reports for invoicing purposes and to measure team performance. Actionable insights help filter reports by employees or date ranges and measure business productivity. 
  • Scheduling: Scheduling tools aren’t available in its basic, free version. Create a multitude of work schedules — fixed daily timings, fixed hours daily and flexible hours weekly. Assign break limits and overtime rules to each schedule and employee. Add a default or customized list of national holidays to schedules. 
  • Boosts Accountability: Jibble simplifies logging in and out of the workplace, which can be done through its website, time clock kiosk, mobile application or smart bot integration with Microsoft Teams and Slack. Activate location-based time tracking for mobile teams and field workers. Automated reminders notify forgetful employees to clock their work hours. Timesheets with attendance logs can be generated on a daily, weekly or monthly basis. Monitor time spent per task or project to understand how employees spend their workdays. 
  • Budgeting: Jibble can export time data to payroll applications for computation of employee salaries. Control labor costs with predictions for the number of employees required to meet anticipated demand. Examine employee data to create baselines for an optimal workforce. 
  • Collaboration: Managers can access staff attendance logs and timesheets from anywhere using Jibble’s mobile application. Activate time clocking by task completion to monitor project progress. Built-in text and email functionalities foster communication with team members and the submission of leave requests. 
  • Employee Self-Service: It offers employee self-service portals for staff to access their updated schedules and request changes. Employees can submit leave and time-off requests, indicate availability and work preferences. 

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All Time and Attendance Software (186 found)

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Replicon

by Replicon, Inc.
Replicon
Replicon is a workforce management and time tracking software built for capturing employee work data across various applications and platforms. It automatically logs activity within specific tools like Slack, Jira, and Zoom, then compiles pre-filled timesheets for team members to review and submit. This automation reduces manual time entry, improving data accuracy and saving administrative time. Its features cater to businesses of all sizes, with functionalities like project budgeting, invoicing, and expense management. Team leaders can leverage insights gleaned from time data to optimize resource allocation, track project progress, and boost overall productivity. While user experiences vary, reviewers often praise Replicon's comprehensive approach to time tracking, its ability to adapt to diverse workflows, and its user-friendly interface. However, some mention a learning curve for advanced features and occasional technical hiccups. Pricing starts at a per-user monthly fee, but the exact cost depends on the chosen features and plan tier. Organizations with larger teams or complex needs might require higher-priced plans. Ultimately, Replicon shines for businesses seeking an automated, data-driven solution to time tracking and workforce management, especially those juggling multiple applications and projects. Pros Easy time entry Robust reporting Customizable features Mobile app access Integrations with other tools Cons Steeper learning curve Occasional glitches Limited customization options Can be expensive for large teams Customer support can be slow
User Sentiment User satisfaction level icon: great
Cost Breakdown
$10 - $100
Company Size
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Deployment
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Platform
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Jibble

by Jibble Tech
Jibble
Jibble is a cloud-based solution designed to help businesses manage their workforces. Organizations can record their employees’ working hours using timesheets on a daily, weekly or monthly basis, approve entries or export data for future use. Improve billable hours by simplifying processes and promoting workplace efficiency. Managers can access attendance logs from anywhere with its mobile applications for Android and iOS devices. Track employee productivity for performance reviews and get outlines of weekly timesheets on email. An administrator panel can be leveraged to monitor activities and project status for specific clients. It lets management closely track team performance using timesheets and reports. They can also monitor tasks assigned to individual employees and their completion status, using its quick view. Staff can log in and out of the workplace using their mobile phones, tablets or web browser. It offers a smart bot for Microsoft Teams and Slack users to clock in and out with a single click. The number of hours worked by employees is accurately computed along with activities, notes and GPS locations. It keeps managers updated with employee data, which is available online. It allows employees to download and manage their timesheets used for payroll calculations.
User Sentiment User satisfaction level icon: excellent
Cost Breakdown
$10 or less
Company Size
Small Medium Large
Deployment
Cloud On-Premise
Platform
Mac Windows Linux Chromebook Android

Connecteam

by Connecteam
Connecteam
Connecteam is a cloud-based HR management software designed for small and medium-sized businesses. It streamlines various HR tasks, including scheduling, time tracking, payroll, communication, and employee training. Connecteam caters well to companies with mobile or remote workforces, as its mobile app enables real-time communication and task management. Key benefits include increased productivity, improved communication, simplified payroll, and reduced paperwork. Popular features include scheduling tools, time clocks, expense tracking, and an employee engagement platform. User reviews praise Connecteam's user-friendly interface, affordability, and wide range of features. Compared to similar products, Connecteam is often lauded for its mobile accessibility and focus on employee engagement. However, some users mention limited reporting capabilities and customization options. Pricing starts at $29 per month for basic features, with additional tiers offering more functionality at higher price points. Connecteam offers a free trial, allowing potential users to test the software before committing. Overall, Connecteam is a versatile HR management solution well-suited for small and medium-sized businesses seeking to streamline HR processes, improve communication, and boost employee engagement. Pros Easy to use Mobile app Good communication Scheduling and time tracking Affordable Cons Limited customization Basic reporting Needs more integrations No built-in payroll Notification overload
User Sentiment User satisfaction level icon: excellent
Cost Breakdown
$10 - $100
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Price & Cost Guide

See the Price/User for the top Time and Attendance Software… plus the most important considerations and questions to ask when shopping.

Buyer's Guide

The Best Time and Attendance Software Is All About Accuracy and Efficiency 

Time and Attendance BG Intro

Gone are the days of staff punching work time via traditional time clocks or filling out paper timetables with their hours each day. Tracking time and attendance is critical for all organizations. Monitoring a workforce, especially in a large organization, can be a grueling task.

Like many other HR functions, recording how long employees work each day has gone digital. Modern time and attendance solutions give companies everything they need to manage all aspects of their employees’ time. These systems log when staff starts and ends their day, show their weekly schedules and provide a time-off request portal.

Executive Summary

  • Time and attendance tracking increases efficiency with automated time tracking and self-service for employees.
  • Compliance and security features automatically keep businesses in line with labor regulations.
  • Increased productivity and improved tracking accuracy are some common benefits.
  • Future trends of time and attendance software will include increased AI use, biometrics and self-service usage.
  • Asking the right questions will help you decide on a software that is right for you.

What Is Time and Attendance Software?

Time and attendance software is designed to streamline the time tracking process. These applications track attendance patterns, create automatic schedules and streamline work distribution to optimize management across different shifts and locations.

Time and attendance systems cover all aspects of time monitoring, including clock-ins and outs, breaks and activity tracking.

The focus of these solutions is to help maintain an effective, productive and cost-effective workforce. As organizations become more dynamic and flexible, workplace optimization becomes more challenging. Mobile apps can remove some ?challenges by allowing workers to access the system from anywhere. This makes it easier to track time across a distributed team.

Primary Benefits

Benefits of Time and Attendance

Increase Productivity

Time and attendance software can automate tasks to eliminate the many frustrations of doing those tasks manually. Automation increases efficiency, productivity, and the managing of labor costs, and the maximization of profits only scratches the surface of its functionality.

With a growing workforce, you need to have an efficient way to manage how they spend their time. Many tools offer capabilities that maximize your workforce’s productivity.

Provide Structure

With time and attendance software, you can give yourself and your workforce better structure of what their workday should look like. Structure provides you with the ability to catch concerning time and attendance patterns, too.

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Implementation Goals

Goal 1

Provide Employees Self-service Access to Track Their Time and Absences

A user-friendly time and attendance system will give workers a centralized location for all related needs. This takes the responsibilities off the shoulders of HR departments while giving employees the self-sufficiency and access they desire.

Goal 2

Manage Time for Contract Workers, Overtime and Other Special Circumstances

Today, it’s common for companies to hire contractors. Contractors may work different hours and receive different pay than the non-exempt or salaried team. With software, this kind of deviation from the norm does not disrupt processes. Time tracking and individualized user experiences allow anyone who works differing hours to manage their hours accurately.

Goal 3

Collect Data

Many modern time and attendance systems include built-in data analysis and reporting tools. Managers can use these features to view information on attendance and make scheduling policy decisions based on the data.

Goal 4

Prevent Lawsuits

Employers are subject to hundreds of labor legislation compliances at both the federal and state level. A well-designed time and attendance system is your core defense against errors. Configuring the software for federal and local regulations is a standard capability.

Goal 5

Reduce Errors

Human error is always a factor in manual processes. So you need software to do manual data entry and lower your error rate. Integrating time and attendance software with payroll processes prevents errors, ensuring optimal compensation precision for employees and work tracking.

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Basic Features & Functionality

Let’s look at some key features that should be on your checklist:

Automated Time Tracking

This feature lets supervisors proactively manage work time more efficiently. In addition, you receive valuable data from staff time usage and attendance, absenteeism, overtime and PTO. Long term, these measures will boost productivity and promote better use of the company’s resources.

Scheduling

Many time and attendance systems include features that allow managers to create and modify work schedules. Depending on the software, this may also include tools enabling employees to request specific work schedules.

Employee and Company Compliance

Keeping current with changing laws and bargaining agreements is mandatory for your business. Not adhering to compliance regulations might cause costly lawsuits and damage your company’s reputation irrevocably.

Security and Safety Measures

This function is another example of a hidden benefit found in many software solutions. When an employee arrives at work and swipes their company ID at the office entrance, their entry into work is recorded. Individual ID can allow access to some areas and restrict access to others, ?protecting sensitive areas.

Visitors to work sites can use visitor identification, allowing you to monitor them without requiring extra security parameters. Finally, uploading fire, health and safety regulations and emergency protocols and guidelines ensure employees know what to do in the event of a disaster or emergency.

Notifications and Alerts

This feature includes alerts about approaching overtime limits. Some systems can also alert managers when employees clock in or out for the day.

You can send notifications via email, text messages, push notifications and other social media platforms like Twitter, LinkedIn and more.

Absence Management

Most systems monitor attendance in one workflow, including absences. This way, managers and teams have access to an up-to-date picture of the schedule for the day.

Some solutions allow companies to log sick time and other paid holidays. Employees can request time off, and managers can approve or deny each request accordingly.

Employee Self-service

Providing online access to important information, like schedules, time, attendance, benefits and payroll information lets managers answer fewer questions.

This feature can also improve precision and reduce administrative tasks. For example, when a worker moves to a new address, opens a new bank account, has a new emergency contact number and more, they can enter this data into the system.

Integration

Several key integrations enhance the potential ROI for any time and attendance system. The two most popular integrations are payroll and access control applications. You can integrate automated time assistance, preventing manual redundancy in attendance data.

Payroll integrations are a useful feature that saves money when you work and ensures that the payroll system’s data is correct. This option also includes paid vacations and leave approval requests based on the preset vacation and attendance policy.

Data Collection

Collect time and work data to generate reports with highly detailed information regarding labor use. By acquiring this data, businesses gain insight into employee productivity and time management.

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Advanced Features & Functionality

Analytical Reporting

Software can generate many types of reports based on the data input by management and employees. This capability presents many valuable possibilities for current business practices and developing a future business strategy.

Using reports that provide information and analysis on questions such as attendance trends and absenteeism can lead to proactive intervention to stem poor habits and introduce positive behavior.

Task and Activity Management

This feature goes beyond standard management by monitoring the hours spent on specific projects. For contract workers and other non-traditional employees, task and activity management allows for personalized time tracking.

GPS Coordinate Tracking

GPS coordinates show where employees are, which can be helpful for mobile workforces. GPS capability allows managers to view a map of where employees spend the day, adding accountability. It also makes it easy to see which offsite employees are closest to the next job.

Mileage Tracking and Mileage Reimbursement Management

Employees may have to drive their cars on business trips. Mileage tracking allows employees to track and record business miles from their mobile devices accurately and easily, ?preventing manual reimbursement tracking requirements. Tracking mileage allows for payments for reimbursement and adherence to IRS compliance.

Because of the IRS’s mileage reimbursement regulations, you should receive reimbursement for that use when you’re using private vehicles for work.

QR Codes

Personal identification numbers and biometric verification can be viable but not foolproof solutions.

Users can scan QR codes without specialized equipment to capture the encoded contents. You only need a computer and a webcam. A QR-code reader app is usable with smartphones, laptops or tablets. Besides the standard UPC barcodes, QR codes contain more data. QR codes can be read faster than conventional encrypted badges.

Biometrics

Thanks to their many advantages, biometric-based time and attendance systems are becoming increasingly popular. This feature can help employers ensure employees don’t clock in and out for their co-workers, also known as buddy punching.

Many solutions provide different levels of biometrics to prevent this type of abuse. These can include time clocks that read each employee's biometric imprint, such as their fingerprint, iris or face.

This feature eliminates the need for manual time entry, saves employee time, decreases overhead staffing and gives the payroll department an accurate picture of labor data.

Geo-attendance

Geofencing allows supervisors to set specific coordinates so employees don’t clock in or out of work hours while away from the required location.

For example, a company can set a radius of 40 meters from the geofenced area, preventing employees from clocking in outside of that radius.

Time and Attendance Software Report

Expert recommendations and analysis on the top software

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Current & Upcoming Trends

The time and attendance software market is forecast to grow to $5.3 million by 2030. It’s clear that TAA systems will remain popular. The following are notable trends you should consider before purchasing a new tool.

Time and Attendance Software Trends

Access Control Applications

Integrations, such as access control applications, are very popular with time and attendance software users. Access control systems are applications that allow you to control who can access, or who cannot access, files within your company.

You can allow or disallow access to things such as staff records, time and attendance records, payroll systems and even the ability to access your buildings, if you use biometrics.

Artificial Intelligence

Like most other spheres, AI is impacting time tracking. It can gather and analyze employee data to assist with staffing, scheduling and other labor needs.

You can also take repetitive administrative tasks off managers' backs by introducing automation.

AI automatically identifies eligible employees regarding availability, burnout and overtime.

With AI-enabled tools, employees can personalize their experience to present the most important information, see schedules, swap shifts and request time off from their phones, tablet or desktop.

Biometrics

Time and Attendance Biometrics

In recent years, the acceleration of biometric technology has been an important factor in developing new ways to monitor a workforce. Biometric technology defines a person by who the individual is rather than by what the individual knows (such as passwords, PINs and more). In fact, the revenue of the biometrics market is expected to reach nearly $55 billion by 2027.

Buddy punching and time theft are usually tricky to manage. However, biometrics come to aid in ending buddy punching. Biometrics are a good option for their long-term benefits and greater ROI if you’re currently using a paper-based method and looking for technology to help you overcome these limitations.

These systems use algorithms to save a digital image to check the individual's identification when clocking in or out.

Gig Economy Management

McKinsey states that freelance work is booming. The gig economy is changing the face of business as we know it.

Since gig workers do not have the same permanent employee rights, companies need to assist managers with obtaining the best possible results from gig workers while dealing with any problems.

Legislation and regulations govern the gig economy. However, the growth of this subset of workers is still going strong. Employers must be careful with how these regulations evolve to track working hours and pay freelancers accurately.

Time and Attendance Software Report

Expert recommendations and analysis on the top software

Get free access now

How To Begin a Software Comparison

Deciding on the best product for your personal business needs is a complex decision. First, the market usually offers an overwhelming amount of options. Second, your choice should closely reflect and align with your business needs.

No two businesses are exactly alike, though there will be many similarities across the same industry. An important consideration is the needs you’re prioritizing when choosing software. Make sure you’re clear on what features you need (your requirements).

This approach has a greater opportunity of meeting your needs and producing a successful conclusion.

Cost & Pricing Considerations

Time and attendance solution rates can vary significantly depending on many characteristics. Some key factors that affect overall pricing include:

  • Size of the business (number of employees and administrators) and models.
  • Number of locations required for the setup.
  • Range of features needed.
  • Add-on services.
  • Support fees.
  • Customized interface or features.
  • Additional tablets, computers or other hardware.

Some high-end systems cost around $10 per person per month. Cloud systems frequently have a monthly fee for each employee.

Time clocks are another cost you’ll probably encounter. Attendance systems operate with various time clocks that leverage PINs, badges or biometrics like fingerprints or face scans. Typically, prices vary from a few hundred dollars per basic clock to a few thousand per sophisticated biometric clock.

Often web-based solutions are more efficient for time and attendance monitoring since they contain the rules to calculate overtime. They also support companies with labor law compliance and time-off regulations, such as sick leave and family leave.

Some vendors don’t disclose pricing on their websites, so you need to be sure to ask for pricing lists ?when inquiring about the product. Another recommendation would be to start with the free trial or base package and then add services or features you need.

Price Guide for Time and Attendance Software

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Questions To Ask Yourself

Time and Attendance Key Questions To Ask

Use these questions as a starting point for internal conversations:

  • What’s wrong with your current time and attendance system (if you have one)?
  • Why are you interested in adopting a solution if your business doesn’t currently use the software?
  • Which features are most important to your organization?
  • Will your current infrastructure respond to software adoption? If not, what changes should you make in preparation?
  • What budget and time constraints do you have?
  • What are your compliance and reporting needs?

Questions To Ask Vendors

Use these questions as a starting point for conversations with vendors:

About the Software

  • Does the software allow employees to record their time in multiple ways?
  • Does it have mobile compatibility?
  • Does it allow employee self-service?
  • Which deployment options are available?
  • Which program integrations are available?

About the Vendor

  • What anti-fraud and security measures do you offer?
  • What is the support offered? Does it cost extra?
  • Do you have to pay for software updates?
  • How often are there updates, and when was the last time the system was updated?
  • Does the license expire?

In Conclusion

Companies with an abundance of employees who work outside the office need solutions that give employees the flexibility to track their time efficiently. You need a system that provides many options so that all your employees can use it, regardless of what kind of technology they have at their disposal.

This buyer’s guide is a starting point to find the best time and attendance software that fits your needs. To simplify the process, use our free comparison report to quickly compare top products based on your needs.

Time and Attendance Software Report

Expert recommendations and analysis on the top software

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Product Comparisons

Additional Resources

About The Contributors

The following expert team members are responsible for creating, reviewing, and fact checking the accuracy of this content.

Technical Content Writer
An Associate Editor at SelectHub, Christina George creates and edits articles spanning project management, CPQ, CRM, marketing automation and home health software. As a Bachelor of Arts graduate with a triple major in Economics, Political Science and Sociology, her aim is to bring an integrated and simplified approach to long-form technical content. Formerly a food writer, copywriter, and social media sleuth, she has a soft spot for a quality pun. When not crafting articles and editing buyer's guides, you can find her attempting to score goals on the football field, binge-watching Curb Your Enthusiasm, or re-reading Pride and Prejudice for the nth time.
Technical Content Writer
Ivy is a Technical Content Writer for SelectHub who primarily focuses on PSA, TAA and payroll content. Outside of work she focuses on creative writing in collaborative settings, where she crafts high fantasy worlds with her friends. She graduated as an Integrated Studies (English and Business) major from Brevard College in May 2019. She enjoys creature features, horror flicks and D and D campaigns.
Technical Content Writer
As a SelectHub Technical Writer, Olivia Edens loves helping readers navigate through the world of HR, payroll, field service, PSA, and time and attendance software. Olivia earned a B.A. in English from the University of Phoenix. When she's not researching or editing, she loves rewatching The Office, scootering around the city and taking her cat for a walk. Fun fact: In high school, she won an award for most ideas per minute.
Technical Research By Nithin Shetty
Senior Analyst
With experience in research and consulting going back to 2015, Nithin Shetty is an asset to SelectHub's research team. In his Senior Research Analyst role, he works on projects in categories like HR, CRM, EHR and ERP. He's also a big movie buff and sports fan. When he isn't watching his favorite film or game, he's usually volunteering his free time to causes like blood drives and environmental cleanup.
Technical Review By Jaisri Narasimman
Principal Analyst
A graduate of NTU Singapore, Jaisri Narasimman honed her data mining and curation skills during her post-graduate education, focusing on developing strategies to help businesses make the most of their data. In her role at SelectHub, her research spans categories like HR, CRM and EHR.
Edited By Joe Evans
Content Editor
Joe Evans is an Editor and Senior Market Analyst at SelectHub. A seasoned professional wordsmith, he has a bachelor's degree in journalism and electronic media and a decade of professional expertise in crafting top-tier digital content for niche online brands. He leads his small yet formidable team in producing helpful, compelling content in vital categories like HR, payroll, talent management, performance management, marketing automation home health, MES. When not editing and writing, he enjoys sports, quality time with family and dogs, and remains constantly in pursuit of something new and interesting to read or listen to.