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Utilizing GPS Time Trackers as A Game Changer for Field-service Operations

Julia Neves
June 26, 2023
8 minutes to read

Field-service workers often find themselves overwhelmed by inefficient time management, inaccurate billing data, and an inability to validate on-site attendance. These problems can create severe operational and financial roadblocks for businesses. The struggle to track, manage and optimize operations is familiar to companies managing a mobile workforce. 

Fortunately, GPS time tracking has emerged as a comprehensive solution that addresses many of these challenges head-on. It’s not just a navigation or tracking tool; it’s an innovative way to revolutionize field-service operations. In this article, we’ll look in-depth at how GPS time tracking works, its critical role in field-service processes, and its benefits. 

Here’s what we’ll discuss: 

Whether you’re a business looking to improve operational efficiency or a field worker striving for increased task streamlining, this exploration of GPS time tracking can provide invaluable insights. So let’s begin our journey towards enhanced field-service operations with GPS time tracking!

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What is Time Tracking with GPS

GPS time tracking technology combines time tracking functionality with the Global Positioning System (GPS). Simply put, it’s a tool that allows businesses to monitor their field workers’ working hours while tracking their geographical locations.

Here’s an example: Imagine a plumbing company dispatching a team to various locations throughout the day. With a GPS time tracking app, the company can automatically record when each worker starts and finishes their job at each location while verifying the worker’s presence at the assigned location. 

This information, collected in real time, provides an accurate and efficient way to manage work hours, validate billing, and ensure accountability. Industries that particularly benefit from GPS time tracking include construction, healthcare, automotive repair, and home services. 

Using GPS Time Tracker App: 6 Benefits for Businesses

Harnessing the power of GPS in time tracking can bring transformative benefits to businesses. Here’s how GPS-centric features specifically cater to the unique needs of field-service operations:

1. Real-Time Operational Visibility

GPS time tracking apps provide a real-time view of where your workforce is and what they’re working on. For instance, if you’re managing a fleet of delivery trucks, you can see exactly where each vehicle is and how long it’s been there. This real-time visibility enables swift decision-making, contributing to a more fluid and efficient operation.

2. Precise Client Billing

GPS time trackers record the exact time spent at each job site, providing concrete proof of service. For example, a landscaping business can accurately bill a client based on the time spent on their property. This level of accuracy eliminates guesswork and ensures fair and transparent billing.

3. Streamlined Administrative Processes

GPS time tracking automates the process of recording when and where employees start and finish their tasks. This eliminates the need for manual timesheets, reducing administrative workload and minimizing errors that can occur with manual data entry.

4. Enhanced Project Management and Resource Allocation

GPS time tracking shows how much time is spent on specific tasks at various locations. This allows managers to identify potential inefficiencies and reallocate resources as needed. For example, additional resources can be deployed to ensure timely completion if a construction project takes longer than estimated.

5. Increased Cost Savings

By tracking the exact location of employees, GPS time tracking can help curb unnecessary travel and reduce fuel expenses. For example, a delivery service can optimize routes based on real-time location data, saving time and fuel costs.

6. Data-Driven Decision Making

The geographical data collected through GPS time tracking can provide valuable insights. Businesses can analyze travel patterns, time spent at job sites, and more to make strategic decisions. For instance, a home services company might identify a high concentration of jobs in a particular area and decide to set up a local office to reduce travel time.

Using GPS Time Tracker: Benefits for Employees

While businesses stand to gain a lot from GPS time tracking, the advantages also extend to employees. Here’s how these tools can enhance the work experience for field-service employees:

1. Enhanced Transparency

GPS time tracking clearly records employees’ work, offering undeniable proof of their efforts. It eliminates any potential discrepancies over hours worked or tasks completed. For example, if a field worker’s time on a job site is questioned, the GPS time tracker accurately records their work.

2. Safety for Solo Workers

A GPS time tracker can be a lifeline for employees working alone or in remote locations. In an emergency or if a worker is unresponsive, the GPS feature can help locate them quickly, ensuring their safety.

3. Elimination of Manual Paperwork

Time tracking with GPS means employees no longer need to complete tedious manual timesheets. The app automatically records when and where they start and finish their tasks, freeing them to focus more on their work and less on administrative tasks.

4. Fair Dispute Resolution

Should there be disagreements about time worked or tasks completed, GPS data is an impartial arbitrator. With a GPS time tracker, employees have solid proof of their work hours and locations, ensuring fair resolution of potential disputes.

5. Efficient Task Management

GPS time trackers often come with features that allow employees to see their daily schedules, tasks, and the locations at which they’re to be performed. This allows for better personal time management and helps employees plan their day more efficiently.

Choosing the Best Time Tracker App with GPS

Selecting the right GPS time tracker app involves considering various factors that align with your business needs and employee requirements. Here are a few key features to consider when making your selection:

  1. Real-time tracking: The app should offer real-time monitoring to provide up-to-the-minute data on your team’s location and activities.
  2. User-friendly Interface: A clean, intuitive interface makes it easy for employees to use the app, reducing the learning curve and enhancing adoption.
  3. Reporting features: Look for an app that provides comprehensive reports on time spent on tasks, travel history, and more, allowing for detailed analysis and improved decision-making.
  4. Reliability: To ensure continuous tracking and reporting, the app should be dependable, with minimal downtime.
  5. Customer support: Good customer service is crucial for resolving issues arising during use. Ensure the app provider offers strong customer support.
  6. Security: As the app will handle sensitive data, it’s essential to ensure it offers robust security measures to protect your data.

Best GPS Time Tracking Apps to Consider

Picking the right GPS time tracker is essential for optimizing your field-service operations. Here are a few of the best options available:

1. Day.io – Overall, the Best GPS Time Tracker for Field Workers

Day.io is the top-rated GPS time tracking app for field workers and businesses. It offers an all-in-one solution for attendance, scheduling, and project management. Its cutting-edge features like GPS authentication, geo-fencing, biometric authentication, intuitive time clock, and advanced analytics are the ultimate tool to revolutionize your field operations. 

The app also lets you create detailed job reports with accurate employee locations to share with customers or other stakeholders in real-time. Day.io integrates seamlessly with popular payroll systems, project management tools, and ERP systems. 

Features

Pricing

  • Time & attendance tracking: $4 per user/month
  • Project time tracking: $6 per user/month

GPS time tracking is included with both Day.io pricing plans. 

2. Homebase – Top Free GPS Time Tracking App for Single-location Businesses

Homebase is a widely-used time tracking app that effectively turns a device into a time clock and scheduling system. It is ideal for restaurants, hotels, hospitals, and retailers due to its all-in-one system and powerful free version.

Features

  • Employee scheduling and time tracking
  • Mobile app for easy shift changes
  • Integration with payroll systems
  • Automated payroll processing
  • A central hub for HR tasks and team communication

Pricing

  • Basic: Free for one location and an unlimited number of users
  • Essentials: $24.95 per location/month
  • Plus: $59.95 per location/month

3. QuickBooks Time – GPS Time Tracking with Payroll Management

QuickBooks Time offers robust GPS time tracking for remote and mobile teams. It is used by over a million employees worldwide, providing real-time insights into workforce activities.

Features

  • GPS location tracking with clock-in and clock-out
  • Real-time coordination for efficient workforce deployment
  • Mileage tracking for reimbursements
  • Geofence time tracking for accurate timesheets
  • Provides a map view of active employees

Pricing

  • Time Premium: Base fee for Admin account: $20 per month, and $8 for each user
  • Time Elite: Base fee for Admin account: $40 per month, and $10 for each user
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Final Thoughts: Leverage A Time Tracking App with GPS to Enhance On-field Productivity

Accurate and efficient time tracking is essential for businesses with on-field operations. Make sure your team stays accountable, productive, and organized by leveraging a GPS-enabled time tracking app. Not only will you automate tedious timesheets, but you will also gain real-time insight into their location and activities. This, in turn, leads to better coordination and decision-making capabilities for your business. 

Try Day.io – it’s free for up to ten users with powerful GPS time tracking features guaranteed to revolutionize your field operations. Experience the difference with Day.io now!