We are already well into 2021, but there are still predictions to be made about what we may see for employee time tracking systems for the rest of the year. 2020 and 2021 have brought major changes to how companies operate, with increased remote work and other adjustments that make traditional time clocks more difficult to use. The future of time tracking seems to be heading towards a variety of solutions meant to address this new work environment.
Some of these predictions still focus on traditional clock in/clock out systems (with a twist or two) while others go in an entirely new direction.
In recent years we've seen more time clocks getting integrated with other programs, but full and robust integration is expected to take off in 2021. Time clocks will not only integrate with payroll systems as they have for years, but also extensive reporting systems to track, monitor, and record employee activities.
This means time clocks will connect to accounting software for payroll as well as job planning software, so employees can log into pre-programmed jobs set by managers. Time clocks will also become the primary place for employees to handle HR tasks like requesting time off, interacting with managers, and leaving important notifications.
Biometrics have been around for a few years, but keep improving. It seems every major time clock service is releasing new and improved biometric systems for clocking in and out. While advances continue in fingerprint, palm print, and iris scans, facial recognition has seen the most growth.
Biometrics have become one of the most trusted ways to track time, but some of the technology has been unreliable. Fingerprints and palm prints particularly struggle if screens get dirty or wet. Advanced facial recognition can accurately identify employees even with face masks.
While great for some, biometrics make others suspicious. For example, Illinois recently enacted laws regarding use of biometric identifiers from retina/iris scans, fingerprints, voiceprints, or face/hand scans. Many employees and employers see this as invasion of privacy and bodily autonomy, causing some to refuse the systems.
Biometrics also don't work as well in dirty, wet, or outdoor settings. Fingerprint and palm print scanners often struggle with dirt, oil, or grime on hands. As a result, traditional punch card and proximity badge reader clocks will remain popular, especially in certain industries.
With all the new devices disrupting time clocks, many desire simple clocks to handle punching in and out. Even when new technologies have reporting and processing advantages, some businesses just need basic machines to record dates and times. These systems will always have a market despite new tech.
Multipurpose time clocks recording more than just punches are making waves. They log anything warranting a timestamp like mail, attendance, paperwork, bills, work orders, and more. By centralizing the workplace, multipurpose clocks gain trust. Some are old-fashioned mechanical clocks while others connect to systems that scan and digitize time-sensitive documents.
Time clocks have treated industries similarly, but 2021 may see more specialized by sector. Some for construction track safety, breaks, and high-risk jobs. Restaurant clocks track catering and employee availability. More niche time clock software and machines expected.
Emerging systems use GPS tracking and geo-fencing to locate workers onsite. Geo-fences set a perimeter to monitor if workers remain in area. Advanced tracking ensures proper breaks. Systems can identify potential injuries like falls and notify supervisors.
Accessibility becomes more important as employers want instant worker time and location data. Smartphone integration with punch in/out and on-demand web/mobile time information crucial. In 2021, expect more accessible time clock tools on the go.
Some time clocks in white collar jobs with billable hours use smart tracking. This tracks apps, websites, and programs used rather than arrival/departure. It allows switching client billing instantly by opening a window. Smart tracking will be a major 2021 and future trend.
Different employer needs exist - safety, biometric security, billable tracking, etc. As time clock companies grow, they find both simplified and specialized solutions fitting industries' specific desires. 2021 looks to be an exciting year for time tracking advances!
More and more companies are moving their data and software solutions to the cloud. This allows access from anywhere with an internet connection. Expect cloud-based time clock systems to become more prevalent in 2021.
Cloud systems offer benefits like automatic software updates, limitless data storage, and accessibility. Managers can approve timesheets and run reports from home or on the road without needing to be in the office. Employees can clock in/out remotely via web browser or mobile app.
With increased reliance on cloud systems comes valid data security concerns. Time clock companies will need to assure customers of privacy protections, encryption, and safety of sensitive data. Multifactor authentication, complex passwords, and limited access will be crucial.
Audit logs showing who accessed data and when provide transparency. Companies may keep cloud data in specific jurisdictions to comply with privacy laws. Data security is pivotal for manager and employee buy-in of new systems.
Advanced analytics and instant data will gain popularity. Managers want real-time insight into workforce attendance, overtime, schedules, and exceptions without waiting for reports.
Dashboards displaying live metrics and notifications for incidents like missed punches save hassle. Analysis of overtime trends and predictive scheduling based on past data enable efficient labor cost management.
Rather than standalone systems, time clocks will integrate deeply with HR software and ERP platforms. This allows seamless flow of workforce data into hiring, payroll, benefits, training and other HR functions.
Large chains can gain scalable oversight of the employee lifecycle across locations. Customized permissions ensure each location's managers only access relevant data.
With remote work becoming more prevalent, time tracking solutions must adapt. More companies will implement time clocks allowing remote clock-in/out via web or mobile app. This provides oversight of scattered employees without sacrificing flexibility.
Geolocation features confirm remote employees are working from expected locations. Some systems even use random screenshots or video checks-ins to validate work is happening during clocked-in periods.
Direct integration with payroll software creates efficiencies. Employee hours flow instantly into payroll for smooth processing. Features like automated break deductions and overtime calculations reduce administrative workload.
Employees gain convenience with self-service access to pay stubs, PTO balances, and income histories. Managers have transparency into labor costs and can adjust schedules proactively if needed.
Basic time clocks only validate attendance, but some track active work time. These systems ensure employees remain productive by monitoring computer activity, applications used, and keyboard/mouse usage.
Analytics identify patterns of wasted time. Management can address decreases in productivity. This leads to accountability and optimal payroll costs.
The time tracking landscape is evolving quickly in 2021 and beyond. Companies embracing emerging innovations will gain competitive advantages through streamlined payroll, heightened data security, increased productivity, and cost savings.
The future looks bright for both employers and employees! With the right time system in place, companies can effectively manage their evolving workforce.
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Open Time Clock is a powerful and user-friendly online time clock software designed for businesses of all sizes. It offers a comprehensive set of features to effectively manage employee time and attendance. With real-time tracking capabilities, employers can monitor employee hours from anywhere, whether in the office or on the go. The system supports various functionalities such as timesheet management, payroll automation, project tracking, and scheduling. It includes advanced features like geofencing, facial recognition, and GPS tracking to ensure accurate attendance records and prevent time fraud. Open Time Clock provides secure data storage, reliable performance, and flexible access options via desktop, mobile devices, and browsers. With its intuitive interface and extensive reporting capabilities, businesses can streamline their time management processes and enhance productivity. Sign Up Now!
