Once you understand it’s time for a little help in alleviating your time issues at work, it can be difficult to know where to start.  You weren’t raised learning about time management software. They didn’t teach time tracking apps as a course in college. It’s all new and foreign to you.

We’re going to help you figure out how to choose the right time tracking software. With so many options available, choosing the right one can seem overwhelming. We’re going to give you all the information you need to make an informed decision. We'll explain what features are essential for quality time tracking software, and provide tips on how to determine which system is the best fit for your needs. Let’s get to it. 

Our best tips for choosing your time tracking software

 

1. Create an outline of your requirements 

Don’t start out chasing your tail. Before you get started, it's important to think about the specific features and capabilities that are necessary for your time tracking software. 

Consider what type of data and reports you need, such as real-time tracking, project management, client billing, and customizable options. Additionally, consider how often you will be using the system, and how much you are willing to invest.

2. Research options

Once you have identified the features that are important to you, it's time to do your research. When you know the features that are must-haves, determining your software will be easier. 

Look for reviews of different time tracking software programs, and see what other users are saying about them. Take a look at the features each program offers and compare them with your list of requirements. 

3. Prioritize user-friendly options

Great time tracking software should be easy to use and understand. Consider your team and what will be most appealing because you’ll all be using this new software.

Look for programs that have a simple, user-friendly design and are intuitive to navigate. Make sure the software has helpful training materials and support options in case you need assistance using it. You want an attentive and helpful customer support system, otherwise, it’s like using your new time tracking software in isolation. 

4. Give it a go

After you've narrowed down your options, it's time to try them out. Most software programs offer free trials, so take advantage of this. A free trial will tell you if it’s worth the money or not.

Trying out your software will allow you to see how the program works in real time. Pay attention to how quickly you're able to learn and understand the system, as well as its accuracy and reporting capabilities, always keeping in mind that your entire team will be using it.

5. Check for seamless integration

Imagine if the apps and software you’re already using do not gel with your new time tracking software. It won’t be as simple as learning a new time tracking app, now everyone will have to deal with figuring out how to make everything else work the right way, too. No bueno.

While you’re doing your free trial, make sure the time tracking software can be integrated with other programs you already use. For example, if you're using a project management system, make sure the timesheets you generate through your time tracking software can be easily exported into it. This will help streamline the reporting process and make sure all of your team's data is in one place.

6. Make your decision

Once you've done all of the research and testing, it's time to make your decision. Weigh the pros and cons of each program and decide which system is the best fit for you. 

Remember, finding a time tracking app that works for everyone is very rare, so make sure you choose a program that fits your specific needs and budget. There are enough choices that you should be able to find one that meets all of your most important needs.

7. Get started

Once you have chosen the time tracking software that fits your needs, it's time to get started. Begin by setting up your account and familiarizing yourself with the system. Don’t do a team-wide start before a point person learns the system. This will help reduce frustration.

You may also want to customize the settings to fit your specific project requirements. Make sure you take advantage of any helpful tutorials or support options provided by the software company.

8. Begin tracking your time

Once your account is set up, you can begin tracking your time. Make sure you enter accurate information into the system so that you can get an accurate picture of how long each task takes to complete. 

Additionally, use the reporting capabilities of the software to monitor your project's progress and make sure you're on track to meet deadlines.

9. Automate your reports

Many time tracking software programs offer automation features that can save you time and effort. Automating your reports allows you to quickly generate accurate updates on project progress, as well as provide insights into how efficient your team is. Automated reports can help you identify areas for improvement and make sure everyone is held accountable for their work.

By using these tips as a guideline, you can find the perfect time tracking software for your project and tasks. With the right system in place, you can easily monitor your project's progress and stay on top of deadlines.

In conclusion

Harvest meets all of these qualifications and we are happy to have a chat with you about what it would look like for you to use Harvest. And lucky for you, we have a free trial so you can see it in action for yourself. 

We would love the opportunity to answer any of your questions and help you troubleshoot your time management issues! Harvest is here to make your work life less hectic, more efficient, and more manageable.