From time stamps to intelligent apps

Current methods of time recording

Modern time recording plays an important role in today's business world. Efficiency and flexibility are just a few of the keywords that are crucial. There are various approaches to efficiently recording working and project hours. Let's take a look at the most common methods.

Hardware terminals: The modern time clock

Companies can use permanently installed hardware terminals at which employees clock in and out. This method is a modern interpretation of the classic time clock. These terminals usually consist of a touch screen or keyboard for data entry and an internal memory for storing the information. Employees can record their working hours by holding their employee ID card with an RFID chip or a special card up to the terminal. Some terminals also use contactless RFID or NFC technologies to instantly recognise employees as soon as they are near the terminal. The recorded data is automatically stored in a database and can be viewed at any time.

The advantages are obvious: low risk of input errors, low maintenance and the possibility of access control. However, the acquisition costs are high and employees who work outside the office cannot use these terminals.

Biometric time recording by fingerprint

Another method is biometric time recording using fingerprints. Employees stamp themselves in and out using a fingerprint scanner. A fingerprint scanner is an electronic device that captures and digitises a person's fingerprint. The digital fingerprint is then compared with the fingerprints stored in a database to confirm or deny a person's identity. The data is assigned directly in the time recording software.

This method offers unique identification and is hardly susceptible to errors, as no additional recording medium is required. However, the high cost of the scanner and the restrictions for employees who are not in the office are also disadvantages here. The devices are also susceptible to soiling.

Web-based software solutions: The most flexible option

Web-based software solutions are probably the most flexible solution. Web-based software solutions are digital platforms for recording working hours. They enable companies to manage their employees' working hours efficiently and accurately. Employees can log in and out via apps or browsers on their mobile phones or PCs from anywhere - whether they are working from home, in a café, in the field or travelling. Implementation costs are much lower as no new hardware is required, and there are additional functions such as holiday requests or sick notes.

Why are web-based software solutions ahead?

Modern companies rely on digital time recording solutions - and for good reason. After all, recording working hours digitally has numerous convincing advantages - for both employees and employers. Here are some reasons why web-based systems are ahead of the game:

Flexibility and Mobility: With a web-based solution, employees can record their working hours from anywhere. Whether in the office, at home or on the move - the cloud-based solution is available everywhere. This is particularly beneficial for companies with distributed locations or remote teams.

Easy implementation: Web-based systems do not require any complex installation on employees' local computers. All that is required is Internet access and a browser. This makes implementation quick and uncomplicated.

Automatic Updates: Cloud-based time recording software is constantly being developed and updated. Companies don't have to worry about manual updates - the latest functions and security improvements are provided automatically.

Central data storage: All recorded data is stored centrally in the cloud. This makes it easier to manage, analyse and access working times. Integration with other company systems is also easier as the data is available in one place.

Security and data protection: Reputable providers of web-based time recording systems rely on encrypted connections and strict security measures. The data is therefore well protected and fulfils data protection requirements.

What should companies look out for?

The choice of the right software depends on many factors and is not always easy to make. The IT service from Bad Neuenahr-Ahrweiler ‘Systemschub’ powered by Klaes, which has been in existence since 1991, recommends the time recording system ‘Klaes zeit’. Why? Because digital recording via ‘Klaes zeit’ has a number of decisive advantages:

• Simple time recording: Employees can record their working hours easily and reliably directly on the PC, via a terminal, in the home office or on the road at the customer's premises. Overtime, flexitime, core time, plus hours, holidays and absences can be easily documented.
• Mobile application: ‘Klaes zeit’ offers a free app that employees can use to flexibly record their working hours. The app also allows employees to clock their working hours offline, which are later synchronised.
• Automated processes: The time recording software ‘Klaes zeit’ automates various processes such as the calculation of breaks, overtime and holiday entitlements. This saves time and reduces the possibility of errors.
• Customisation: The software can be adapted to different working time models, whether for full-time employees, part-time employees or weekend workers.
• Legal compliance: ‘Klaes zeit’ helps companies to comply with legal and operational requirements. It provides complete documentation of working times that complies with legal requirements.
• Real-time updates and reports: All recorded data and working hours are immediately and automatically available and can be edited or analysed at any time.

Conclusion: Digitalisation is changing the way working hours are recorded and it is just one area where digitalisation can make a big difference. It's time to utilise the thrust of technology and discover new digital worlds!

For more information on digital solutions for companies, visit klaes.de/time-management, where you can find out more about digital time recording.