Geofencing, commonly called GPS time tracking, is one solution that can streamline this process. See how GPS-based time clocks work and some benefits of setting up geofencing for time tracking.

What is Geofence Time Tracking?

Geofence Time Tracking uses time clock technology to monitor your employee’s location during working hours. A geofence time clock is a mobile app that records employee clock-in and clock-out hours based on a virtual perimeter set up around a particular place.

A geofence is an established virtual barrier that represents a real-world location. To create the geofence, a manager draws a radius on a map and views the employee’s location when they clock in using the GPS time clock app. Also, the manager can configure warnings for unauthorized punches and scheduling modifications. If an employee is outside the designated boundary when they try to punch in or out, the tracking system will restrict them.

GPS time clocks benefit companies with multiple work locations and personnel who travel between them. ‍Businesses in this category may include event catering, field service, construction, outside sales, delivery services, home health, and food trucks.

Geofencing Vs Geolocation 

Geolocation technology uses an employee’s smartphone or tablet’s GPS capability to enrol them with a location signal. Businesses can configure their time management platforms such that when time entries are entered online, a location and a time stamp are captured using geolocation technology. Geofencing advances location-based technologies.

A boundary can be created around a space, like a workplace or an office building. Managers might be notified when personnel arrive or leave a job location. Employees can receive reminders to clock in and out depending on where they are. Automation of time reporting can assist organizations in acquiring the most accurate information about the hours and locations of their employees’ work.

How Does Geo-tracking Work?

To determine where a mobile device or RFID tag is at any given time, a Global Positioning System (GPS) time clock uses satellite signals, radio signals, wireless networks, or cellular towers. Employees use their mobile devices to clock in and exit while managers set up fences on the mobile timekeeping app. The GPS time clock app lets employees view their shift schedule, timecard, accruals, and open shifts.

What Are the Benefits of Geofence Time Tracking

Now that you understand a geofence time tracking app, let’s look at how it might help your organization.

Prevent Time Theft

If your business employs many field or mobile workers, you probably know how challenging monitoring them during working hours is. The severity of the issue is demonstrated by the fact that 75% of U.S. businesses are affected by various time theft tactics.

The Geofence time app can end these fraudulent acts and provide peace of mind. Moreso, if you use a tracking app that has facial recognition.

Provide Accurate Time Tracking

Manual timekeeping is unreliable and prone to mistakes, and sometimes those errors are unintentional. Your employees may clock in and out efficiently and conveniently using a geofencing time tracking app, and they will receive fair compensation for their job.

Automating tasks in this department will significantly reduce the likelihood of payroll-related human error. The app notifies you in real-time once an employee has reached a predetermined number of hours to avoid unnecessary overtime hours. Your staff will benefit from the geofence time monitoring app as well. They are confident they will be fairly compensated for additional work or overtime.

Improve Management

Geofencing time tracking provides real-time insight into your team’s actions and whereabouts. Such knowledge can help you understand how your employees spend their time when working shifts and to enable new solutions that can enhance productivity and efficiency.

Real-time information also enables a prompt response. You can use scheduling to determine which of your staff is nearest and give them the task if an urgent circumstance requires a quick response. ‍Thanks to GPS tags, you may provide your clients with a comprehensive record of labour hours when charging them. Even if a dispute arises with a client, you will have evidence of your employees’ attendance.

Best Practices for Geofence Time Tracking

Employers can benefit significantly from geofence time tracking. However, the system can sometimes overwhelm the employees. You can improve the employee experience with geofence time tracking as an employer. Here are some best practices and rules to follow: ‍

Explain to Employees the Advantages 

Employers should take the time to explain to their staff how geofencing works and answer any questions. Remember to demonstrate how geofence time tracking will benefit the organization and the employees.

Create a Time Tracking Policy

When your company is ready to use geofence time tracking software, it would be best to make a policy first. Include all aspects of the geofence time tracking process and the software you use. ‍Everyone involved will have already adopted the new policy when you start using geofence time tracking tools.

Prioritize Employee Privacy

You can gain workers’ trust by convincing them that geofencing benefits everyone. It’s even more important to reassure workers that their private data will remain secure and that they won’t be monitored outside of work hours. ‍

What to Consider When Selecting a Geofence Time Tracking App

Consider purchasing a geofence time clock if you want to find a way to save your company time and money. There are numerous tools on the market, but the following are some factors to consider before selecting an app.

• Simple to use: Geofence time clocks should be simple and easy to set up. Employees can install the app and use their smartphones or other mobile devices to clock in and out.
• Cost-effective: Depending on your business needs, you should choose software that meets your goals and budget.
• Simplified payroll: Payroll processing is faster because geofence time clocks automatically record employee hours. A system that integrates with payroll software will save your company money and valuable staff resources.
• Improved compliance: Make sure geofence time clocks assist you in adhering to overtime policies set forth by your employer and labor laws and regulations.

Are you ready to see how a geofence time tracking can help you streamline your business and increase productivity? Begin today with a 14-day free trial of Time Tracker.

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