Best Time Tracking Software for Small Business: Top Picks for Efficient Time Management
Time tracking software can be an essential tool for small businesses to manage their workforce efficiently. With so many options available, it can be overwhelming to choose the best one for your business. In this article, we will provide an overview of the best time tracking software for small businesses in 2023.
Choosing the right time tracking software can help small businesses manage their workforce's productivity, attendance, and billing. With the right software, small businesses can streamline their operations, reduce administrative tasks, and improve their bottom line. Our list of the best time tracking software for small businesses is based on factors such as ease of use, affordability, features, and customer support. We have also taken into account the needs of different types of businesses, such as those with remote workers or those in the service industry.
Why Time Tracking Software is Essential for Small Businesses
Time tracking software is an essential tool for small businesses to improve employee productivity, manage labor costs, and streamline payroll processes. By using time tracking software, small businesses can easily monitor how much time employees are spending on different tasks, identify areas of inefficiency, and make data-driven decisions to optimize their operations.
Here are some of the key benefits of using time tracking software for small businesses:
Improved Employee Productivity
Time tracking software allows small businesses to accurately monitor how much time employees are spending on different tasks and projects. This helps managers identify areas where employees may be spending too much time or not enough time, and make adjustments to optimize productivity. Additionally, time tracking software can help employees stay focused and on-task by providing a clear picture of how their time is being spent.
Better Management of Labor Costs
Labor costs are one of the biggest expenses for small businesses, and time tracking software can help businesses manage these costs more effectively. By accurately tracking employee time, businesses can ensure that they are paying employees for the time they actually worked, and avoid overpaying for unproductive time. Time tracking software can also help businesses identify areas where they may be able to reduce labor costs, such as by automating certain tasks or reallocating resources to more productive areas.
Streamlined Payroll Processes
Time tracking software can greatly simplify the payroll process for small businesses. By automatically tracking employee time, businesses can easily calculate employee pay and ensure that employees are paid accurately and on time. This can save businesses a significant amount of time and reduce the risk of errors or disputes related to employee pay.
Overall, time tracking software is an essential tool for small businesses looking to improve employee productivity, manage labor costs, and streamline payroll processes. By using time tracking software, businesses can make data-driven decisions to optimize their operations and ensure the success of their business.
Top Time Tracking Software for Small Businesses
When it comes to managing a small business, tracking employee time is crucial to ensure that you're paying your employees accurately and staying on top of project deadlines. Here are some of the best time tracking software options available for small businesses:
1. Clockify
Clockify is a popular time tracking software that offers a free plan with unlimited users and projects. It's also available as a mobile app, desktop app, and browser extension, making it easy for employees to track their time from anywhere. Clockify is best overall for its ease of use and simple interface.
2. Time Doctor
Time Doctor is an all-in-one employee time tracking and performance management tool. It's used by major companies, like Verizon and Ericsson, as well as small businesses, like Firehouse Subs, to boost employee productivity. With Time Doctor, you can track time, monitor employee activity, and generate detailed reports.
3. Toggl Track
Toggl Track is a simple and intuitive time tracking software that's perfect for small businesses. It offers a free plan for up to five users and is available as a mobile app, desktop app, and browser extension. Toggl Track is popular for its ease of use and customizable interface.
4. Hubstaff
Hubstaff is a time tracking software that offers a range of features, including time tracking, employee monitoring, and project management. It's used by small businesses and large enterprises alike, and is available as a desktop app, mobile app, and browser extension. Hubstaff is popular for its comprehensive feature set and easy-to-use interface.
5. Harvest
Harvest is a time tracking software that's designed specifically for small businesses. It offers a range of features, including time tracking, invoicing, and project management. Harvest is available as a mobile app, desktop app, and browser extension, and is popular for its ease of use and customizable interface.
Overall, these time tracking software options are some of the best available for small businesses. Depending on your specific needs, one of these options may be the perfect fit for your business.
Key Features to Consider in Time Tracking Software
When choosing a time tracking software for your small business, it's important to consider a few key features that can make a big difference in how effective the software is for your team. Here are some of the most important features to keep in mind:
Ease of Use
One of the most important factors to consider is how easy the software is to use. If it's too complicated or difficult to navigate, your team may not use it consistently, which defeats the purpose of having a time tracking system in the first place. Look for software that has a clean, intuitive interface and doesn't require a lot of training to get started.
Desktop, Web, iOS, Android, and Mobile App
Another important factor to consider is the availability of the software across different platforms. Ideally, you want a time tracking system that can be accessed from desktops, laptops, and mobile devices, including both iOS and Android. This ensures that your team can easily track their time no matter where they are working from.
GPS Tracking and Geofencing
If your team works remotely or travels frequently, GPS tracking and geofencing can be incredibly useful features. GPS tracking allows you to see where your team members are located when they are working, while geofencing can automatically track when they enter or leave a job site.
Billing, Invoicing, and Project Management
Many time tracking software solutions also include billing and invoicing features, which can save you time and streamline your accounting processes. Additionally, some software solutions also include project management features, which can help you keep track of tasks and deadlines.
Payroll Integration
If you use a payroll system to manage your team's pay, look for time tracking software that integrates with your payroll software. This can help you automate the process of calculating hours worked and ensure that your team members are paid accurately and on time.
Unlimited Projects, Billable Hours, and Employee Scheduling
For small businesses with multiple projects and clients, it's important to have a time tracking system that can handle unlimited projects and billable hours. Additionally, employee scheduling features can help you keep track of when your team members are working and ensure that you have coverage for all of your projects.
Time Audits, PTO Management, and Attendance Tracking
Some time tracking software solutions also include features like time audits, PTO management, and attendance tracking. Time audits can help you identify areas where your team members may be spending too much time, while PTO management and attendance tracking can help you keep track of vacation time and sick days.
Idle Time Tracking, Custom Reports, and Productivity Reports
Finally, consider features like idle time tracking, custom reports, and productivity reports. Idle time tracking can help you identify when your team members are not actively working, while custom and productivity reports can help you gain insights into how your team is spending their time and identify areas where you can improve efficiency.
Overall, when choosing a time tracking software for your small business, it's important to consider the features that will be most useful for your team and your specific needs. By taking the time to evaluate your options and choose the right software, you can streamline your time tracking processes and improve your team's productivity.
Free vs Premium Plans
When choosing a time tracking software for your small business, one of the most important factors to consider is whether to opt for a free plan or a premium plan. While free versions may seem like a great deal, they often come with limitations that may hinder your business's productivity and growth.
Free Plans
Many time tracking software providers offer free plans that allow you to track time and manage projects at no cost. However, these plans often come with limitations such as a limited number of users, projects, and features. For example, Clockify's free plan allows for unlimited users and projects but lacks advanced features such as invoicing and integration with other tools. On the other hand, Toggl's free plan offers basic time tracking features but limits the number of users to five.
Free plans can be a good option for small businesses that are just starting out or have a limited budget. They can help you get a feel for the software and decide if it's the right fit for your business before committing to a paid plan.
Premium Plans
Premium plans offer more advanced features and customization options that can help your business streamline its time tracking and project management processes. These plans often come with a starting price, which can vary depending on the provider and the features included.
For example, Time Doctor's premium plan starts at $9.99 per user per month and includes advanced features such as payroll and invoicing. Similarly, Harvest's premium plan starts at $12 per user per month and includes advanced reporting and forecasting features.
Premium plans can be a good investment for small businesses that need advanced features to manage their projects and employees efficiently. However, it's important to carefully consider your business's needs and budget before committing to a paid plan.
In summary, choosing between a free plan and a premium plan depends on your business's specific needs and budget. While free plans can be a good option for small businesses with limited budgets, premium plans offer more advanced features and customization options that can help your business grow and succeed.
Time Tracking Software with Comprehensive Reporting
One of the most important features of time tracking software for small businesses is comprehensive reporting. This feature enables business owners to track employee hours, monitor project progress, and analyze productivity. Here are some of the best time tracking software with comprehensive reporting:
1. Toggl Track
Toggl Track is a popular time tracking software that offers comprehensive reporting features. With Toggl Track, small business owners can get detailed reports on employee hours, project progress, and productivity. The software also offers a customizable dashboard that allows users to track their most important metrics.
2. Harvest
Harvest is another great time tracking software that offers comprehensive reporting. The software provides detailed timesheets that show how much time employees spend on each task. Harvest also offers a powerful reporting feature that allows users to analyze productivity and project progress.
3. Clockify
Clockify is a free time tracking software that offers comprehensive reporting features. With Clockify, small business owners can track employee hours, monitor project progress, and analyze productivity. The software also offers a customizable dashboard that allows users to track their most important metrics.
4. Hubstaff
Hubstaff is a time tracking software that offers comprehensive reporting features. With Hubstaff, small business owners can track employee hours, monitor project progress, and analyze productivity. The software also offers a powerful reporting feature that allows users to analyze productivity and project progress.
In conclusion, time tracking software with comprehensive reporting is essential for small businesses. It enables business owners to track employee hours, monitor project progress, and analyze productivity. The software mentioned above are some of the best time tracking software with comprehensive reporting features.
Integrations in Time Tracking Software
One of the most important features to consider when choosing a time tracking software for your small business is its integrations. The ability to integrate with other software you are already using can save you time and increase productivity.
Most time tracking software offer a variety of integrations, including with accounting software like QuickBooks, project management tools like Trello or Asana, and communication tools like Slack or Microsoft Teams.
QuickBooks integration is particularly important for small businesses as it allows for seamless transfer of time tracking data to your accounting software, making payroll and invoicing much easier. Look for time tracking software that offers a direct integration with QuickBooks or other popular accounting software.
Project management integrations are also useful for small businesses that use project management tools to manage their tasks and projects. Time tracking data can be automatically transferred to project management software, allowing for better project tracking and management.
Communication tool integrations can also be helpful, especially for remote teams. Integrating with communication tools like Slack or Microsoft Teams allows for easy communication and collaboration among team members, as well as quick access to time tracking data.
In summary, when choosing a time tracking software for your small business, consider its integrations with other software you are already using. Look for software that offers integrations with accounting software like QuickBooks, project management tools like Trello or Asana, and communication tools like Slack or Microsoft Teams to increase productivity and save time.
Time Tracking Software for Different Platforms
When it comes to time tracking software, it's important to find a solution that works seamlessly across different platforms. Here are some of the best time tracking software options for small businesses on different platforms:
Web App
Web apps are a popular choice for time tracking software because they can be accessed from any device with an internet connection. One of the best web-based time tracking tools is Toggl. It offers a simple and intuitive interface, making it easy to track time for different projects and clients. Toggl also integrates with a variety of project management tools, such as Asana and Trello, making it easy to manage your workflow.
Mobile Apps
Mobile apps are a great option for businesses with employees who are always on the go. One of the best mobile time tracking apps is Harvest. It offers a user-friendly interface, allowing employees to easily track time and expenses. Harvest also offers robust reporting features, making it easy to analyze employee productivity and project profitability.
Tablet
For businesses that use tablets, TimeCamp is a great time tracking solution. It offers a mobile app that is optimized for tablet use, making it easy to track time and manage projects on the go. TimeCamp also offers integrations with popular project management tools, such as Trello and Asana.
Google Chrome/Firefox
If you're looking for a time tracking solution that integrates with your web browser, RescueTime is a great option. It offers a browser extension for both Google Chrome and Firefox, allowing you to track time spent on different websites and applications. RescueTime also offers detailed reports, giving you insights into your productivity and time management habits.
Chrome Extension
For businesses that use Google Chrome, the Toggl Chrome extension is a great time tracking solution. It allows you to track time directly from your browser, making it easy to switch between different tasks and projects. The Toggl Chrome extension also integrates with a variety of project management tools, such as Asana and Trello.
In conclusion, there are a variety of time tracking software options available for small businesses on different platforms. By choosing a solution that works seamlessly across your devices and applications, you can improve your productivity and streamline your workflow.
Time Tracking Software for Specific Industries
While time tracking software can be beneficial for any small business, there are certain industries that can benefit even more from these tools. In particular, the construction industry and field service businesses can benefit from using time tracking software to improve their operations.
Construction Industry
Construction projects often involve multiple teams working on different tasks, making it difficult to track the hours worked by each team member accurately. Time tracking software can help construction companies track employee hours, manage project timelines, and ensure that everyone is working efficiently.
Some of the best time tracking software for the construction industry includes:
ClockShark: This software is designed specifically for the construction industry and includes features like GPS tracking, project management tools, and integrations with popular accounting software.
TSheets: TSheets offers a mobile app that allows employees to clock in and out from job sites, track their hours, and submit time off requests. It also includes features like job costing and scheduling tools.
Jobber: Jobber is an all-in-one software solution for construction companies that includes time tracking, project management, invoicing, and more. It also offers integrations with popular accounting software like QuickBooks.
Field Service Businesses
Field service businesses, such as HVAC companies, landscaping companies, and pest control companies, often have employees working at multiple job sites throughout the day. Time tracking software can help these businesses manage their employees' schedules, track their hours, and ensure that they are billing clients accurately.
Some of the best time tracking software for field service businesses includes:
ServiceTitan: ServiceTitan is an all-in-one software solution for field service businesses that includes time tracking, dispatching, scheduling, and more. It also offers integrations with popular accounting software like QuickBooks.
Jobber: Jobber is also a great option for field service businesses, as it includes time tracking, scheduling, and invoicing tools. It also offers integrations with popular accounting software like QuickBooks.
FieldAware: FieldAware is a cloud-based software solution for field service businesses that includes time tracking, scheduling, and dispatching tools. It also includes features like GPS tracking and real-time reporting.
In conclusion, time tracking software can be a valuable tool for small businesses in many industries, but it is especially useful for those in the construction and field service sectors. By using the right time tracking software, these businesses can improve their operations, manage their employees' schedules more efficiently, and ensure that they are billing clients accurately.
Time Tracking Software for Remote and Small Teams
Time tracking software is an essential tool for remote and small teams, allowing them to monitor employee productivity and manage work hours effectively. With the rise of remote work, it has become increasingly important to have a reliable time tracking software in place.
One of the best time tracking software for remote and small teams is Toggl Track. It is a simple and easy-to-use software that allows employees to track their time effortlessly. With Toggl Track, you can monitor employee productivity and billable hours in real-time. It also offers integrations with popular project management tools like Asana, Trello, and Jira.
Another great option for remote and small teams is Harvest. It offers a range of features like time tracking, expense tracking, and invoicing. Harvest also provides detailed reports on employee productivity and project progress. It integrates with popular tools like Slack, QuickBooks, and Basecamp.
For small teams that require employee monitoring, Time Doctor is an excellent choice. It not only tracks time but also takes screenshots of employee activity, monitors website and application usage, and tracks keyboard and mouse activity. Time Doctor also offers payroll and invoicing features.
If you're looking for a productivity monitoring tool, RescueTime is a great option. It tracks employee activity and provides detailed reports on how time is spent on different applications and websites. It also offers a feature to block distracting websites and applications to improve productivity.
In conclusion, time tracking software is a must-have tool for remote and small teams. With the right software, you can improve employee productivity, manage work hours effectively, and streamline invoicing and payroll processes. Choose the software that best suits your team's needs and budget.
Detailed Reviews of Popular Time Tracking Software
When it comes to time tracking software for small businesses, there are plenty of options to choose from. Here, we'll take a closer look at some of the most popular time tracking software options available and what they have to offer.
Clockify
Clockify is a free time tracking software that allows you to track time spent on projects, tasks, and clients. It also offers features such as billable rates, timesheet approvals, and team management. Clockify integrates with popular project management tools like Trello, Asana, and Basecamp.
QuickBooks Time
QuickBooks Time is a time tracking software that integrates with QuickBooks accounting software. It offers features such as GPS tracking, mobile app access, and project tracking. QuickBooks Time also offers employee scheduling and payroll integration.
TimeCamp
TimeCamp is a time tracking software that offers features such as automatic time tracking, billable hours tracking, and project management. It integrates with popular project management tools like Asana, Trello, and Basecamp. TimeCamp also offers invoicing and reporting features.
Deputy
Deputy is a scheduling and time tracking software that offers features such as GPS tracking, task management, and employee scheduling. It integrates with popular payroll and accounting software like QuickBooks and Xero. Deputy also offers shift swapping and time off management features.
Toggl Track
Toggl Track is a time tracking software that offers features such as automatic time tracking, project tracking, and billable hours tracking. It integrates with popular project management tools like Asana, Trello, and Basecamp. Toggl Track also offers reporting and invoicing features.
Time Doctor
Time Doctor is a time tracking software that offers features such as automatic time tracking, project tracking, and employee monitoring. It integrates with popular project management tools like Asana, Trello, and Basecamp. Time Doctor also offers payroll and invoicing features.
ClockShark
ClockShark is a time tracking software that offers features such as GPS tracking, project tracking, and employee scheduling. It integrates with popular payroll and accounting software like QuickBooks and Xero. ClockShark also offers reporting and invoicing features.
Paymo
Paymo is a time tracking software that offers features such as automatic time tracking, project tracking, and invoicing. It integrates with popular project management tools like Asana, Trello, and Basecamp. Paymo also offers team management and reporting features.
TSheets
TSheets is a time tracking software that offers features such as GPS tracking, project tracking, and employee scheduling. It integrates with popular payroll and accounting software like QuickBooks and Xero. TSheets also offers reporting and invoicing features.
TrackingTime
TrackingTime is a time tracking software that offers features such as automatic time tracking, project tracking, and team management. It integrates with popular project management tools like Asana, Trello, and Basecamp. TrackingTime also offers reporting and invoicing features.
Hubstaff
Hubstaff is a time tracking software that offers features such as GPS tracking, project tracking, and employee scheduling. It integrates with popular payroll and accounting software like QuickBooks and Xero. Hubstaff also offers team management and reporting features.
Harvest
Harvest is a time tracking software that offers features such as automatic time tracking, project tracking, and invoicing. It integrates with popular project management tools like Asana, Trello, and Basecamp. Harvest also offers reporting and team management features.
Buddy Punch
Buddy Punch is a time tracking software that offers features such as GPS tracking, project tracking, and employee scheduling. It integrates with popular payroll and accounting software like QuickBooks and Xero. Buddy Punch also offers reporting and team management features.
My Hours
My Hours is a free time tracking software that offers features such as project tracking, team management, and invoicing. It integrates with popular project management tools like Asana, Trello, and Basecamp. My Hours also offers reporting and invoicing features.
In conclusion, there are plenty of time tracking software options available for small businesses. The software you choose will depend on your specific needs and preferences. Consider factors such as pricing, features, and integrations when making your decision.
Security Features in Time Tracking Software
When it comes to time tracking software for small businesses, security is a top concern. You want to make sure that your employees' data is safe and secure, and that only authorized personnel can access it. Here are some of the security features you should look for in time tracking software:
Single Sign-On (SSO)
Single sign-on (SSO) is a security feature that allows users to log in to multiple applications with a single set of credentials. This means that employees don't have to remember multiple usernames and passwords, which can be a security risk. With SSO, you can also set up access controls based on user roles, so that only authorized personnel can access certain features or data.
Facial Recognition
Facial recognition is a biometric security feature that uses facial recognition technology to identify users. This can be a useful feature for time tracking software, as it ensures that only authorized personnel can clock in and out. Facial recognition can also be used to prevent "buddy punching," which is when one employee clocks in or out for another.
Two-Factor Authentication
Two-factor authentication is a security feature that requires users to provide two forms of identification to log in. This can include something the user knows (like a password) and something the user has (like a security token or a fingerprint). Two-factor authentication can help prevent unauthorized access to your time tracking software.
Encryption
Encryption is a security feature that protects data by converting it into a code that can only be read with a decryption key. This can be useful for time tracking software, as it ensures that employee data is protected in transit and at rest. Look for time tracking software that uses strong encryption standards, such as AES-256.
Audit Trail
An audit trail is a record of all actions taken within a system, including who performed the action and when. This can be useful for time tracking software, as it allows you to track changes to employee data and monitor who has accessed the system. An audit trail can also help you identify and respond to security incidents.
Customer Support and User Experience
When it comes to choosing the best time tracking software for your small business, customer support and user experience are crucial factors to consider. You want a software that is easy to use and has a reliable support team to help you if you run into any issues.
Firstly, consider the user experience of the software. Is the interface intuitive and easy to navigate? Does it have a simple and user-friendly design? Look for software that has a clean and organized dashboard, with clear instructions on how to use the features.
In terms of customer support, make sure the software provider offers multiple channels for support, such as email, phone, and live chat. You want to be able to reach out to their support team whenever you need help, and receive prompt and knowledgeable assistance.
Some time tracking software providers also offer online resources such as video tutorials, knowledge bases, and FAQs. These can be helpful for troubleshooting and learning how to use the software effectively.
Another aspect to consider is whether the software offers a free trial or demo. This allows you to test out the software and see if it meets your needs before committing to a purchase.
In summary, when evaluating time tracking software for your small business, prioritize user experience and customer support. Look for software that is easy to use, has reliable support channels, and offers helpful online resources.
Conclusion
Choosing the right time tracking software for your small business can be a challenging task, but it is essential to keep your operations running smoothly. With the right software, you can easily track employee time, attendance, and expenses, as well as manage budgets and billable hours.
After researching and analyzing various options, we recommend considering the following factors when selecting a time tracking software:
Employee time tracking: Look for software that offers accurate and easy-to-use employee time tracking features, such as clock-in and clock-out functionality, timesheets, and timers.
Time and attendance software: Consider software that offers time and attendance tracking, including features such as PTO tracking, overtime management, and leave requests.
Expense tracking: Choose software that allows you to track and manage employee expenses, such as travel expenses, receipts, and reimbursements.
Project templates and jobs: Look for software that offers project templates and job tracking, so you can easily assign tasks, track progress, and manage deadlines.
Unlimited users: Consider software that allows unlimited users, so you can easily add new employees as your business grows.
GPS time tracking: Choose software that offers GPS time tracking, so you can track employee location and ensure they are working on-site or in the field as required.
Cloud-based time tracking: Look for cloud-based software that allows you to access your data from anywhere, anytime, and on any device.
Time tracking apps: Consider software that offers mobile apps, so you can easily track time and manage projects on the go.
Budgeting: Choose software that offers budgeting features, so you can easily manage your project budgets and expenses.
Feature-rich: Look for software that offers a wide range of features, such as reporting, invoicing, and payroll integrations.
Forbes Advisor: Consider software that has been recommended by Forbes Advisor, such as Clockify, Buddy Punch, and Homebase.
Billable and nonbillable hours: Choose software that allows you to track both billable and nonbillable hours, so you can easily invoice clients and manage your finances.
Payroll software: Look for software that integrates with your payroll software, so you can easily manage employee salaries and payments.
Free version available: Consider software that offers a free version, so you can try it out before committing to a paid plan.
Integrations available: Choose software that offers integrations with other tools you use, such as project management software or accounting software.
Overall, it is important to choose a time tracking software that meets the unique needs of your small business. By considering the factors above, you can select a software that is feature-rich, easy to use, and helps you manage your time and expenses efficiently.
