9 Time Tracking Best Practices for US Construction Companies

2024

Written by Asim Qureshi
By Asim Qureshi, CEO Jibble

Hi, I’m Asim Qureshi, the CEO and co-founder of Jibble, a cloud-based time and attendance software. As a property developer for several years, I understand the unique challenges faced by US construction companies. Before I founded Jibble, I worked as a VP at Morgan Stanley for six years. I’m passionate about helping businesses improve their productivity and performance through smart time management practices.

This article covers:

Overview: Unlocking Success Through Time Tracking Best Practices

Making Time Tracking Efficient with Software Solutions

Introducing Time Tracking to Your Team Seamlessly

Improving Business Administration

Final Thoughts: Time Tracking Revolutionized

Reduce your paperwork with these time tracking tips for US Construction Companies

Unlocking Success Through Time Tracking Best Practices

The largest construction companies are still doing well, but now more than ever, the construction industry is facing pressures due to inflation, material shortages and labor shortages. And in a global economy, winning contracts is getting increasingly competitive. It is essential that US construction companies streamline administration and prevent errors in paperwork. Making the switch from manual paper-based time tracking to a timesheet app is a game-changer for construction companies. In our fast-paced world, time tracking software offers a multitude of advantages that greatly improve efficiency, accuracy, and overall performance. Now, let’s explore the best practices of time tracking and see how it can revolutionize the construction industry.

Making Time Tracking Efficient with Software Solutions

According to a report by Deloitte, “The Future of Construction,” we are leaping toward the fourth industrial revolution where engineering and construction firms are experiencing fundamental shifts. Smart operations that integrate software technologies and leveraging data and advanced analytics are two trends that will be shaping the future of construction. As a result of these trends, many US construction companies are moving away from paper-based time tracking to software solutions.

Tip 1: Use Time Tracking Apps to Enhance Accuracy and Efficiency

Time tracking is vital for construction companies, impacting productivity, profitability, and customer satisfaction. Manual data errors in timesheets result in either underbilling a client or having to revise what has been submitted to the client. This damages your reputation with the client. Time tracking software prevents human errors and reduces time spent on calculations and data entry. With streamlined processes and seamless integration, accuracy is improved, saving valuable time and effort.

Tip 2: Set Up a Time Clock Kiosk Somewhere Accessible

Having to chase down employees and contractors who have either not submitted their time or done it incorrectly is time consuming and costly.  Relying on memory for who is working on what, where and when makes it hard to manage resources and performance. Gone are the days of manual data collection, paper timesheets, and paperwork overload. With a time clock kiosk, you can reclaim precious time and eliminate administrative burdens and costs. Place your time clock kiosk somewhere accessible so employees always remember to clock in and out for work. This way you can ensure no time data is lost and employee timesheets are always accurate.

Tip 3: Gain Insight from Time Reports

Inaccurate or incomplete quotes can be a thing of the past. Eliminate the guesswork of quotes and contract proposals by having access to actual data of how long jobs took in the past. Time tracking software provides instant access to real-time data, empowering construction companies with invaluable insights into project progress and labor costs. Detailed reports can be effortlessly generated, facilitating informed decision-making and optimizing resource allocation. This is added value for your clients in the form of detailed breakdowns of costs and hours, helping them to budget and also to trust your services.

Introducing Time Tracking to Your Team Seamlessly

When introducing time tracking software, it’s essential to communicate the benefits and objectives clearly to all employees. Offering training and support will help them grasp the new system and address any concerns or resistance. This approach ensures a seamless transition and minimizes disruptions.

Tip 4: Explain Why Time Tracking is Necessary

Clear communication of benefits and objectives of using time tracking software is crucial. Providing comprehensive training and support ensures employees understand the new system and minimizes any concerns or resistance, ensuring a smooth transition.

Tip 5: Ensure Employees Have Access to Training and a Knowledge Base

Choosing software with user-friendly interfaces and a built-in knowledge base simplifies the training process and fosters a positive adoption of time tracking software. Features like facial recognition at a Kiosk or Geo-tracking on devices to track employees on site are examples of fast and easy access to time tracking. Having access to a knowledge base for questions empowers employees to effectively utilize the system, promoting confidence and seamless integration.

Tip 6: Motivate Employees to Track Time

Motivation plays a key role in driving employee engagement with time tracking. By highlighting the individual and team benefits, such as fair compensation, improved project planning, and increased efficiency, employees are encouraged to embrace accurate time tracking. Recognizing and rewarding those who consistently track time accurately and meet goals further boosts motivation.

Streamline your business with time tracking best practices in US Construction

Improving Business Administration

With the rising costs of inflation, material volatility and labor, US construction companies are looking for ways to streamline operations. Here are some valuable tips to achieve this with best practice tips time tracking:

Tip 7: Monitor Progress and Costs

Construction companies can see what is happening on their projects and how much money they are spending easily with real-time data access. By checking regularly, they can make smart choices, fix problems quickly, and manage their budget well. This helps them keep their projects on track.

Tip 8: Integrate Invoicing and Payroll

When you connect your time tracking software with your invoicing and payroll systems, you can make your administrative tasks much easier. This lets you create correct and fast invoices based on the time you tracked and makes the payroll process smoother by doing the calculations for you. This integration also makes sure your financial records are correct and you pay your employees and subcontractors on time.

Tip 9: Effective Legal Compliance

Using time tracking software ensures compliance with US labor laws, government contracts and when clients’ have specific requirements such as OSHA’s extended hours recommendations. It provides accurate documentation of hours worked, breaks taken, and overtime, simplifying payroll processing and fostering transparent communication. Compliance with legal regulations is crucial in the construction industry. Time tracking software can assist with legal compliance by accurately documenting hours worked, breaks taken, and overtime hours. This ensures adherence to labor laws and regulations, minimizing the risk of penalties or legal issues.

Final Thoughts: Time Tracking Revolutionized

Having excellent time tracking for US construction companies is crucial for business operation. Using a time tracking app improves accuracy, saves time and costs, and ensures compliance with legal requirements. By adopting timesheet software, companies can streamline their operations and achieve success.

Implementing best practices in time tracking requires effective change management and clear communication. Training and motivating employees are vital for a smooth transition and accurate tracking. Monitoring project progress, integrating invoicing and payroll, and ensuring legal compliance are essential elements.

Leveraging real-time data from a time tracking app, US construction companies can streamline operations, increase productivity, and achieve their goals. It’s time to prioritize best practices in time tracking for success in the dynamic construction industry.

By embracing highly accurate time tracking, construction companies can unlock a new level of efficiency, accuracy, and compliance. These best practices empower businesses to thrive and stay ahead in the dynamic landscape of the construction industry.