Time and attendance software can be a great investment for small businesses. It can help to improve employee productivity and keep track of employee hours. There are many time and attendance software options on the market, so here is how to choose one.
1. Consider the features
Before choosing a time and attendance software package, it’s important to consider the features that are most important to you. Most packages offer some combination of the following features: job time tracking, attendance tracking, timesheets, shift tracking, time-off tracking, and pay stub generation.
It’s also common for packages to offer additional features such as mobile apps, GPS tracking, and the ability to work remotely. If you’re interested in this, use Zenefits to manage all company policies from a central hub. You should also consider how much support you want. If possible, get a demo or test drive of the software you are considering before buying, and make sure that it offers the features you need.
2. Consider your budget
Time and attendance software can be expensive, but there are some affordable options available. It’s important to consider not only the initial cost of the software but also the ongoing costs. Some packages require a monthly subscription, while others have one-time fees. It’s also important to consider the cost of hardware if you require it.
For example, you may need a time clock or biometric scanner. In addition, some software requires an annual support contract. By considering your budget, you can find a package that fits your needs and your finances.
3. Consider your needs
Not all time and attendance software are created equal. It’s important to choose a package that meets your specific needs. For example, if you need to track employee hours for overtime purposes, make sure the software includes a time tracking feature. If you need to generate pay stubs, make sure the software includes a payroll module.
It’s also a good idea to get recommendations from other small business owners who have used the time and attendance software. They can help you decide which features are most important to you and which package is best for your specific needs. You can also ask them about the support they received when having questions or issues with the software.
4. Consider your company size
Time and attendance software is not just for large companies. Small businesses can benefit from it even more than large companies because of the lower costs. However, it’s important to choose a package that is suitable for your company size. Some packages are designed for very small businesses, while others are designed for businesses with hundreds of employees.
If you have a very small business, make sure the package you choose includes all the features you need and is easy to use. However, if you have a larger business, you may want to consider a package that offers more features and flexibility.
5. Consider your company culture
When it comes to choosing the right time and attendance software for your small business, it’s important to consider your company culture. Every company is different, and what works for one company may not work for another. You should take into account things such as the company’s size, its industry, and its employees.
For example, if you have a very small company with only a few employees, you may want to choose a package that is easy to use and doesn’t require a lot of training. On the other hand, if you have a large company with hundreds of employees, you may need a more robust package that includes features such as GPS tracking and the ability to work remotely.
6. Consider your support needs
Most time and attendance software packages include some type of support. However, the level of support varies from package to package. Some packages offer phone support, email support, and live chat support. Others only offer email support. It’s important to consider your company’s needs when it comes to support.
If you need help installing the software or configuring it to meet your specific needs, make sure the package you choose includes phone or live chat support. If you only need help with using the software, email support may be sufficient. Therefore, before you make a purchase, be sure to ask about the level of support the software package provides.
When choosing the best time and attendance software for your small business, it’s important to consider your needs and your company size. You also need to consider your company culture and your support needs. There are a variety of packages available, so it’s important to do your research before making a purchase. In the end, the right package will help you manage your employee hours more efficiently and improve your bottom line.
