Workpuls Teramind ActivTrak Hubstaff DeskTime Time Doctor RescueTime Kickidler Veriato Work Examiner
OVERVIEW
Price $6/user/month $6/user/month $7.20/user/month $7/user/month $7/user/month $9.99/user/month $6/user/month $9.99/user/month $150/licence/year $60/licence (lifetime)
Free trial 7 days 7 days No 14 days 14 days 14 days 30 days 7 days Yes 30 days
Ease of use Very easy Difficult Very easy Easy Easy Very easy Very easy Very easy Very difficult Easy
TRACKING METHODS
Unlimited (tracker working 24/7)
Fixed (defined working hours)
Automatic (when computer is connected to a specified network)
Manual (start/stop)
Project based (track time only on projects)
GENERAL MONITORING FEATURES
Stealth mode
App and website usage
Real-time monitoring
Offline time tracking
Attendance
Activity levels
Keylogger
Geolocation
Remote desktop control
Website/activity blocking
SCREENSHOTS AND RECORDING
Screenshots
Screenshots on demand
Screen recording
PRODUCTIVITY FEATURES
Productivity trends
Websites and apps labeling
Category labeling
Productivity alerts
ADVANCED SECURITY FEATURES
User behavior analytics
Data loss prevention
Advanced file and web monitoring
REPORTING
Productivity reports
Team reports
Timelines
Email reports
Access management
PLATFORMS
Web
Mac desktop app
Windows desktop app
Linux desktop app
Mobile app iOS, Android iOS, Android iOS, Android iOS, Android iOS, Android Android
Browser extension Chrome Chrome Chrome
Other Citrix, VMware Chrome OS
OTHER
Support Phone, email, online Phone, email, online Phone, email, online Email, online Phone, email, online, in-person Online Phone, email, online Email, online, Viber, Whatsapp Phone, email, online, support ticket Phone, email, online
Knowledge base
Video tutorials
Integrations comming soon
API
Deployment cloud, on-premise cloud, on-premise, AWS, Azure cloud cloud cloud cloud cloud on-premise cloud, on-premise on-premise
Kronos Humanity Timeclockplus Tsheets Wheniwork Deputy Replicon Jibble EbilityTimeTracker OnTheClock BeeBole
OVERVIEW
Price(per month)Available upon requestFrom $2 per userAvailable upon requestFrom $6.40 per user+$16Free for up to 75 usersFrom $2.50 per userBasic plan:$30 for 5 users+$5 per additional userFrom $1.50 per employeeFrom $4 per user+$8From $2.20 per user$5.99 per user per month
Free trial30 days14 daysYes14 days14 days14 days30 days30 days,no credit card required
Ease of useDifficultEasyDifficultVery easyEasyEasyDifficultVery easyEasyEasyEasy
FEATURES
Timecard management
Scheduling
Shift Trading
Timesheets
Break time management
Real-time tracking
PTO Management
Payroll
Invoicing
Client billing
GPS tracking
Clock out reminders
Alerts
Manual time
PUNCH-IN METHODS
Web app
Mobile app
Time clock device
Time clock kiosk
Facial recognition
Fingerprint scanning
Geofencing
Group punch-in
REPORTING
Visual reports
Email reports
Time rounding
MANAGEMENT
Permissions
Manager approvals
Add time for others
Integrations
PLATFORMS
Web
Android app
iOS app
Mac desktop app
Windows desktop app
Linux desktop app
OTHER
SupportPhone and onlinePhone and onlinePhone,chat and onlinePhone and chatEmail and onlineChat and phonePhone,email,chat and onlinePhone and onlinePhone,email,chat and onlinePhone and onlineOnline chat and video support in English,French,and Spanish
Knowledge base
Video tutorials
Community forum
API
Workpuls Hubstaff Toggl TimeDoctor Harvest TimeCamp Timely Everhour Tick TMetric
OVERVIEW
Price (per month) $6 per user $5.83 per user $9 per user $9.99 per user $10.80 per user $5.25 per user $99 for 5 users $7 per user $19 for 10 projects $5 per user
Free trial 7 days 14 days 30 days 14 days 30 days Yes 14 days 14 days 30 days 30 days
Ease of use Very easy Difficult Difficult Very easy Easy Very easy Easy Difficult Very easy Difficult
TIME TRACKING METHODS
Manual
Start/stop buttons
Automatic time mapping
IN-DEPTH TASK AND PROJECT ANALYSIS
Screenshots
App and website usage
Activity levels coming soon
Real-time tracking
TASK AND PROJECT MANAGEMENT
Project adding
Project templates
Project status
Task assignment
Task priorities
Budgeting coming soon
Mark billable/non-billable hours
Payroll calculation
Invoicing
ALERTS
Idle time reminders
Deadline alerts coming soon
Budget alerts coming soon
REPORTING
Client login
Productivity analysis
Email reports coming soon
PLATFORMS
Web
Mac desktop app
Windows desktop app
Linux desktop app coming soon
iOS app Beta
Android app
Browser extension Chrome Chrome, Firefox Chrome Chrome Chrome, Firefox Chrome Chrome, Firefox, Opera, Edge
OTHER
Support Phone and online Email and online Email and online Online Online, email and phone Email, online and support ticket Email and chat Email and chat Email Chat
Knowledge base
Video tutorials
Integrations coming soon
API
On-premise hosting

Read time: 10 minutes

With over a third of time tracking systems outdated and 38% of US companies still using paper timesheets, it's clear businesses require modern solutions. These old systems lead to inefficiencies and errors, making effective time tracking software a must.

Yet employees often voice concerns about advanced time tracking systems that can lead to unease and anxiety about job security and performance reviews. So how can you reconcile employee worries with the need for accurate time tracking?

Addressing concerns head-on is key. Clear communication about time tracking eases fears and builds trust. When employees understand its value and feel involved, they're more likely to embrace it. Open dialogue fosters ownership, turning time tracking into a useful tool rather than a surveillance method.

Insightful, a leading employee time tracker software, understands the importance of employee buy-in and promotes transparency and engagement. That is why we’ve gathered a comprehensive list of the most common concerns about time tracking software from employees. 


By understanding and addressing your workforce’s concerns, you can reap the benefits of time tracking software without alienating your teams. 

How to Use These FAQs

These FAQs can help you anticipate questions about employee timekeeping software. Addressing these concerns upfront makes it easier to craft policies and clearly communicate the benefits, getting everyone on board.

Employers can use these FAQs to:

  • Craft Transparent Policies: Use the answers to create clear, comprehensive time tracking policies that address employee concerns head-on.

  • Communicate Benefits: Present the advantages of employee time tracking softwares in a way that resonates with employees, highlighting how it can improve their work experience and productivity.

  • Facilitate Open Dialogue: Encourage a transparent conversation about time tracking. This helps address any fears and ensures employees understand the purpose and benefits of the software.

  • Get Buy-In: Secure employee buy-in by demonstrating how the software will help them work smarter, not harder, and showing genuine consideration for their input and concerns.

Q: What exactly does time tracking software monitor?

A: Time and attendance tracking software keeps tabs on various aspects of your work activity to ensure accurate records and boost productivity. Here’s what it tracks:

  • Work Hours: Logs when you clock in and out, including breaks and overtime, giving a clear picture of your work schedule.

  • Activity: Monitors active and idle time, as well as the use of applications and websites during work hours.

  • Project Time: Records the time you spend on specific projects or tasks, helping to allocate resources accurately.

  • Productivity: Analyzes your work habits and productivity levels, identifying how your time is utilized and where improvements can be made.

  • Billing: Keeps track of billable hours for client projects to ensure accurate invoicing.

  • Remote Work: Tracks your work time and productivity if you're a remote employee, providing insights on location-based performance.

Q: Why is the company implementing time tracking software?


A:
Time tracking software for PC shows how work hours are really spent, highlighting productivity patterns and inefficiencies. With the average worker productive for just 2 hours and 53 minutes per day, pinpointing these trends is vital. Managers can then tweak workflows and offer better support to boost overall productivity. 

Here are some additional reasons companies rely on time tracking software:

  • Accurate Payroll: Say goodbye to payroll errors. With precise work hour records, you get paid accurately, making payroll processing smoother.

  • Better Resource Allocation: Managers get detailed insights into how time is spent on tasks and projects. This helps deploy resources more effectively and achieve better results so no one is overwhelmed.

  • Compliance & Accountability: Time tracking keeps everyone in line with labor laws and company policies, promoting fairness and transparency. It also holds everyone accountable for their work hours.

  • Managing Remote & Hybrid Work: The software provides oversight, ensuring that remote and hybrid teams stay productive no matter where they're working. It also helps prevent potential bias against remote employees by offering transparency. 

Q: How will my privacy be protected?

A: Protecting your privacy is a top priority with time tracking software online. Here’s how your personal information stays secure:

  • Data Encryption: All data is encrypted during transmission and storage, keeping your information safe from unauthorized access.

  • Access Controls: Only authorized personnel, typically HR and select managers, have access to app time tracking data.

  • Privacy Settings: Admins can adjust privacy settings to know exactly what’s being tracked, building trust and ensuring personal activities remain private.

What measures are in place to keep my personal information and data confidential?

To keep your information confidential, regular security audits and compliance checks align with the latest data protection standards. Data is anonymized wherever possible to protect individual identities, ensuring productivity reports do not compromise privacy. These steps, combined with robust encryption and access controls, create a secure environment that respects and protects your privacy.

Q: Who has access to my time tracking data?

A: Access to time tracking data is tightly controlled to protect your privacy while enabling effective management. Here's how it's handled:

  • Authorized Personnel Only: Only specific individuals, like HR managers, department heads, and senior managers, have access.

  • Role-Based Access: Different roles have different access levels. For example, a department head might only see their team's data, while HR managers might have broader access. This role-based system helps manage access efficiently.

  • Transparency with Employees: Being open about who can see data and why builds trust. You need to know how your data is handled and who has access to it.

Under what circumstances can my data be viewed?

Authorized personnel access the data for specific reasons such as processing payroll, conducting performance reviews, or managing project timelines. This makes sure the data is used appropriately and only when necessary, striking a balance between effective management and your privacy.

Q: Will this software affect my autonomy & flexibility at work?

A: No, remote employee time tracking software is designed to support, not hinder, autonomy and flexibility. Here’s how it impacts your work:

  • Enhanced Self-Management: Time tracking tools help you manage your time more effectively. By providing a clear record of work hours, you can identify areas for improvement and adjust your schedule to be more productive.

  • Accommodating Flexible Work Arrangements: The software supports various work styles, including flexible schedules and remote work. You can manage your time and work at your own pace, with the added benefit of having your hours accurately tracked. This flexibility can help you maintain a good work-life balance.

  • Supporting Autonomy: The data from your time tracking app can show how you are managing your productivity, making a case for maintaining or increasing your flexibility. The software helps demonstrate that you are effectively managing your time, which supports requests for flexible working arrangements.

Q: What happens if the software records my time inaccurately?


A:
Inaccurate time records can occur, but fixing them is straightforward. You should regularly review your recorded hours and activities to catch any discrepancies early. If you find errors, report them promptly to your manager or HR with supporting evidence like emails or calendar entries. Managers will review the discrepancies, cross-check the data, and update the records accordingly, ensuring accurate payroll and performance records.

Q: Can the time tracking data impact my performance reviews or promotions?


A:
Yes, remote worker time tracking data can significantly influence performance reviews and promotions. Here’s how it usually works:

  • Objective Performance Metrics: Time tracking provides solid data on your work hours, productivity patterns, and task completion. This enables managers to evaluate your performance based on real numbers, not just opinions.

  • Spotting Strengths and Improvement Areas: By analyzing time tracking data, managers can see where you excel and where you might need more support. This helps in creating focused development plans and boosting your career growth.

Q: Is there a policy in place for time tracking outside of regular work hours?

A: Yes, it's crucial for employers to have a clear policy for tracking work outside regular hours, especially for remote teams. Here’s how they should approach it:

  • Defined Guidelines: Set clear rules about what counts as work outside of standard hours. Specify which tasks, projects, or responsibilities are tracked after hours.

  • Remote Work Considerations: For remote employees, the policy clarifies when and how work will be monitored. It defines expectations for availability and outlines what activities will be tracked.

  • Overtime and Compensation: The policy addresses how overtime is recorded and compensated, ensuring that you are fairly paid for any extra hours you put in.

Q: What can I do if I feel the tracking is too intrusive or causing stress?


A:
If you find time tracking intrusive or stressful, it's important to address these feelings head-on. Here’s what you can do:

  • Open Door Policy: Make sure you feel safe bringing up your concerns with your manager or HR without worrying about negative consequences.

  • Schedule a Meeting: Set up a private chat with your manager or HR to discuss your issues with time tracking in detail.

  • Listen & Understand: Managers should genuinely listen to your concerns, showing they care and are committed to finding a solution. With half of the employees feeling disengaged at work, tackling these issues can really boost morale.

  • Review & Adjust: Pinpoint the parts of time tracking that are causing you stress and ask for adjustments to make the process more comfortable.

Creating an open dialogue and being responsive to feedback can turn time tracking from a stressor into a useful tool that helps boost productivity.

Insightful - A Favorite Time Tracking Tool of Employees

Insightful software to monitor remote workers is an award-winning time tracking tool that will put your employees at ease by endorsing transparency and engagement. Designed for modern workplaces, Insightful helps you accurately track work hours, boost productivity, and maintain a fair work environment. 

Here’s what sets Insightful apart:

  • Transparent Monitoring: Insightful offers clear and open tracking of work hours and activities, so you always know what is being monitored and why. This transparency builds trust and eases any concerns your employees might have about being watched too closely.

  • Customizable Features: The software provides flexible settings to fit your specific work environment, whether your teams work remotely, in a hybrid setup, or in the office. You can manage your teams’ time effectively while keeping accurate records.

  • Detailed Reporting: Insightful generates comprehensive reports that help you make informed decisions. These reports can highlight your teams’ productivity patterns, how resources are allocated, and areas where improvements can be made.

  • Privacy Protection: With strong privacy measures like data encryption, role-based access, and regular audits, Insightful ensures that your data remains secure and confidential.

  • Employee Empowerment: By offering tools for better self-management and transparent tracking, Insightful empowers your teams to optimize their productivity and work more efficiently.

Unlock the power of Insightful remote worker time tracker and transform your time tracking into a strategic asset. Streamline operations, support a flexible work environment, and ensure accurate tracking of work hours. Boost productivity and foster a positive work culture with a tool your employees will love.

Book a demo or sign up for a free trial now and see the difference Insightful can make!

We’ve reserved a 7-day free trial for you….

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Claim your free 7-Day full feature trial of Insightful today. Insightful’s actionable work insights make your team more productive, efficient and accountable.

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Time Tracking

Addressing Common Employee Concerns about Time Tracking in the Workplace

Written by
Dora Ordanić
Published on
May 28, 2024

Read time: 10 minutes

With over a third of time tracking systems outdated and 38% of US companies still using paper timesheets, it's clear businesses require modern solutions. These old systems lead to inefficiencies and errors, making effective time tracking software a must.

Yet employees often voice concerns about advanced time tracking systems that can lead to unease and anxiety about job security and performance reviews. So how can you reconcile employee worries with the need for accurate time tracking?

Addressing concerns head-on is key. Clear communication about time tracking eases fears and builds trust. When employees understand its value and feel involved, they're more likely to embrace it. Open dialogue fosters ownership, turning time tracking into a useful tool rather than a surveillance method.

Insightful, a leading employee time tracker software, understands the importance of employee buy-in and promotes transparency and engagement. That is why we’ve gathered a comprehensive list of the most common concerns about time tracking software from employees. 


By understanding and addressing your workforce’s concerns, you can reap the benefits of time tracking software without alienating your teams. 

How to Use These FAQs

These FAQs can help you anticipate questions about employee timekeeping software. Addressing these concerns upfront makes it easier to craft policies and clearly communicate the benefits, getting everyone on board.

Employers can use these FAQs to:

  • Craft Transparent Policies: Use the answers to create clear, comprehensive time tracking policies that address employee concerns head-on.

  • Communicate Benefits: Present the advantages of employee time tracking softwares in a way that resonates with employees, highlighting how it can improve their work experience and productivity.

  • Facilitate Open Dialogue: Encourage a transparent conversation about time tracking. This helps address any fears and ensures employees understand the purpose and benefits of the software.

  • Get Buy-In: Secure employee buy-in by demonstrating how the software will help them work smarter, not harder, and showing genuine consideration for their input and concerns.

Q: What exactly does time tracking software monitor?

A: Time and attendance tracking software keeps tabs on various aspects of your work activity to ensure accurate records and boost productivity. Here’s what it tracks:

  • Work Hours: Logs when you clock in and out, including breaks and overtime, giving a clear picture of your work schedule.

  • Activity: Monitors active and idle time, as well as the use of applications and websites during work hours.

  • Project Time: Records the time you spend on specific projects or tasks, helping to allocate resources accurately.

  • Productivity: Analyzes your work habits and productivity levels, identifying how your time is utilized and where improvements can be made.

  • Billing: Keeps track of billable hours for client projects to ensure accurate invoicing.

  • Remote Work: Tracks your work time and productivity if you're a remote employee, providing insights on location-based performance.

Q: Why is the company implementing time tracking software?


A:
Time tracking software for PC shows how work hours are really spent, highlighting productivity patterns and inefficiencies. With the average worker productive for just 2 hours and 53 minutes per day, pinpointing these trends is vital. Managers can then tweak workflows and offer better support to boost overall productivity. 

Here are some additional reasons companies rely on time tracking software:

  • Accurate Payroll: Say goodbye to payroll errors. With precise work hour records, you get paid accurately, making payroll processing smoother.

  • Better Resource Allocation: Managers get detailed insights into how time is spent on tasks and projects. This helps deploy resources more effectively and achieve better results so no one is overwhelmed.

  • Compliance & Accountability: Time tracking keeps everyone in line with labor laws and company policies, promoting fairness and transparency. It also holds everyone accountable for their work hours.

  • Managing Remote & Hybrid Work: The software provides oversight, ensuring that remote and hybrid teams stay productive no matter where they're working. It also helps prevent potential bias against remote employees by offering transparency. 

Q: How will my privacy be protected?

A: Protecting your privacy is a top priority with time tracking software online. Here’s how your personal information stays secure:

  • Data Encryption: All data is encrypted during transmission and storage, keeping your information safe from unauthorized access.

  • Access Controls: Only authorized personnel, typically HR and select managers, have access to app time tracking data.

  • Privacy Settings: Admins can adjust privacy settings to know exactly what’s being tracked, building trust and ensuring personal activities remain private.

What measures are in place to keep my personal information and data confidential?

To keep your information confidential, regular security audits and compliance checks align with the latest data protection standards. Data is anonymized wherever possible to protect individual identities, ensuring productivity reports do not compromise privacy. These steps, combined with robust encryption and access controls, create a secure environment that respects and protects your privacy.

Q: Who has access to my time tracking data?

A: Access to time tracking data is tightly controlled to protect your privacy while enabling effective management. Here's how it's handled:

  • Authorized Personnel Only: Only specific individuals, like HR managers, department heads, and senior managers, have access.

  • Role-Based Access: Different roles have different access levels. For example, a department head might only see their team's data, while HR managers might have broader access. This role-based system helps manage access efficiently.

  • Transparency with Employees: Being open about who can see data and why builds trust. You need to know how your data is handled and who has access to it.

Under what circumstances can my data be viewed?

Authorized personnel access the data for specific reasons such as processing payroll, conducting performance reviews, or managing project timelines. This makes sure the data is used appropriately and only when necessary, striking a balance between effective management and your privacy.

Q: Will this software affect my autonomy & flexibility at work?

A: No, remote employee time tracking software is designed to support, not hinder, autonomy and flexibility. Here’s how it impacts your work:

  • Enhanced Self-Management: Time tracking tools help you manage your time more effectively. By providing a clear record of work hours, you can identify areas for improvement and adjust your schedule to be more productive.

  • Accommodating Flexible Work Arrangements: The software supports various work styles, including flexible schedules and remote work. You can manage your time and work at your own pace, with the added benefit of having your hours accurately tracked. This flexibility can help you maintain a good work-life balance.

  • Supporting Autonomy: The data from your time tracking app can show how you are managing your productivity, making a case for maintaining or increasing your flexibility. The software helps demonstrate that you are effectively managing your time, which supports requests for flexible working arrangements.

Q: What happens if the software records my time inaccurately?


A:
Inaccurate time records can occur, but fixing them is straightforward. You should regularly review your recorded hours and activities to catch any discrepancies early. If you find errors, report them promptly to your manager or HR with supporting evidence like emails or calendar entries. Managers will review the discrepancies, cross-check the data, and update the records accordingly, ensuring accurate payroll and performance records.

Q: Can the time tracking data impact my performance reviews or promotions?


A:
Yes, remote worker time tracking data can significantly influence performance reviews and promotions. Here’s how it usually works:

  • Objective Performance Metrics: Time tracking provides solid data on your work hours, productivity patterns, and task completion. This enables managers to evaluate your performance based on real numbers, not just opinions.

  • Spotting Strengths and Improvement Areas: By analyzing time tracking data, managers can see where you excel and where you might need more support. This helps in creating focused development plans and boosting your career growth.

Q: Is there a policy in place for time tracking outside of regular work hours?

A: Yes, it's crucial for employers to have a clear policy for tracking work outside regular hours, especially for remote teams. Here’s how they should approach it:

  • Defined Guidelines: Set clear rules about what counts as work outside of standard hours. Specify which tasks, projects, or responsibilities are tracked after hours.

  • Remote Work Considerations: For remote employees, the policy clarifies when and how work will be monitored. It defines expectations for availability and outlines what activities will be tracked.

  • Overtime and Compensation: The policy addresses how overtime is recorded and compensated, ensuring that you are fairly paid for any extra hours you put in.

Q: What can I do if I feel the tracking is too intrusive or causing stress?


A:
If you find time tracking intrusive or stressful, it's important to address these feelings head-on. Here’s what you can do:

  • Open Door Policy: Make sure you feel safe bringing up your concerns with your manager or HR without worrying about negative consequences.

  • Schedule a Meeting: Set up a private chat with your manager or HR to discuss your issues with time tracking in detail.

  • Listen & Understand: Managers should genuinely listen to your concerns, showing they care and are committed to finding a solution. With half of the employees feeling disengaged at work, tackling these issues can really boost morale.

  • Review & Adjust: Pinpoint the parts of time tracking that are causing you stress and ask for adjustments to make the process more comfortable.

Creating an open dialogue and being responsive to feedback can turn time tracking from a stressor into a useful tool that helps boost productivity.

Insightful - A Favorite Time Tracking Tool of Employees

Insightful software to monitor remote workers is an award-winning time tracking tool that will put your employees at ease by endorsing transparency and engagement. Designed for modern workplaces, Insightful helps you accurately track work hours, boost productivity, and maintain a fair work environment. 

Here’s what sets Insightful apart:

  • Transparent Monitoring: Insightful offers clear and open tracking of work hours and activities, so you always know what is being monitored and why. This transparency builds trust and eases any concerns your employees might have about being watched too closely.

  • Customizable Features: The software provides flexible settings to fit your specific work environment, whether your teams work remotely, in a hybrid setup, or in the office. You can manage your teams’ time effectively while keeping accurate records.

  • Detailed Reporting: Insightful generates comprehensive reports that help you make informed decisions. These reports can highlight your teams’ productivity patterns, how resources are allocated, and areas where improvements can be made.

  • Privacy Protection: With strong privacy measures like data encryption, role-based access, and regular audits, Insightful ensures that your data remains secure and confidential.

  • Employee Empowerment: By offering tools for better self-management and transparent tracking, Insightful empowers your teams to optimize their productivity and work more efficiently.

Unlock the power of Insightful remote worker time tracker and transform your time tracking into a strategic asset. Streamline operations, support a flexible work environment, and ensure accurate tracking of work hours. Boost productivity and foster a positive work culture with a tool your employees will love.

Book a demo or sign up for a free trial now and see the difference Insightful can make!