Construction crews often travel to multiple different job sites a month. Contractors and construction companies need a time clock system that can adapt to a workforce that is always on the move. That’s where mobile time clocks for construction crews come in. You can track your employees, manage your projects, and house all your time management needs in one software. Here’s how you can benefit from mobile time clocks for construction crews and why you need them.

What is a Mobile Time Clock?

Mobile time clocks are pretty simple. It’s software used on a mobile phone, tablet, or computer to track when employees are working. Usually, these mobile time clocks use geolocation to check when employees arrive at a job site and allow them to “clock in” to work. No clock-in terminal is needed. Instead, everything is recorded and logged into the software. Some systems are capable of full GPS tracking throughout the entire shift, while others use geofencing to show when an employee has arrived and left a specific location. Almost all mobile time clocks for construction crews are cloud-based systems because they require recording data from multiple locations. That data is then synced in the software for HR professionals to record.

Key Features of Mobile Time Clock Solution:

GPS tracking: Mobile time clocks with built-in GPS tracking allow supervisors to see where their employees are when they clock in and out.
Geofencing: This feature enables employers to create virtual boundaries around job sites.
Offline capabilities: Construction sites may sometimes lack reliable internet access. The right system will allow you to still conduct time clock transactions using cellular data or upload the information later on in the day.
Task tracking and management: A mobile time clock with job and task tracking allows employees to log the specific tasks they are working on. This is perfect for managing projects and assigning tasks.
Break and rest period tracking: Compliance with labor laws and regulations is crucial in the construction industry. Choosing a system with this feature enables you to be active in preventing regulation violations.
HR and payroll software integrations: Mobile time clocks that integrate with these systems can streamline the process of calculating employee hours, reduce the risk of errors, and save time for both employees and administrators.
Customizable reporting and analytics: Customized reporting allows you to view the data how you need to. You can gain insight into labor costs, inefficiencies, and areas for help.

4 Benefits of Mobile Time Clocks for Construction Crews

With useful features and many varieties to choose from, mobile time clocks provide a lot of value for companies. However, there are some key benefits that make mobile time clocks a necessity. Companies are using these tools to be more flexible and improve productivity. Time tracking allows you to provide a better experience for your company.

1. Enhanced Accuracy and Real-time Tracking

Automated mobile time clocks or even ones that record manual “clock-ins” digitally are going to improve accuracy far more than manually recording that time. This should reduce errors in both the employees and HR departments. Furthermore, this can help reduce time theft and activities like buddy punching. Each individual employee must clock into their shift at the correct location and time.

2. Improved Productivity and Efficiency

Most mobile time clocks for construction crews offer some type of task management on top of time tracking. This makes it easier to view which projects are being completed and how quickly. Employers can manage these tasks and assign new projects right from their phones.

Want faster payroll processing? Construction companies can benefit from having these hours automatically logged in for them and either running the payroll in the software or exporting it to another software.

Construction Timecards

Learn More

3. Enhanced Compliance

Compliance is a high concern because construction projects can entail intricate labor laws and regulations that vary by place. By ensuring that construction crews follow these guidelines, mobile time clocks can reduce the danger of legal trouble and potential fines. For example, Labor laws often mandate specific break periods and rest intervals for employees. Mobile time clocks with break and rest period tracking ensure that employees take their legally required breaks, reducing the risk of violations and potential fines or lawsuits.

Additionally, construction crews may frequently work long hours, leading to potential overtime payments. A mobile time clock accurately tracks hours worked, ensuring that employees are compensated appropriately for any overtime. It can also provide automated alerts to supervisors when employees are approaching overtime.

4. Access to Data and Insights

Mobile time clock software gives employers valuable tools to review data like:

Hours worked
Employees needed for a job
How quickly a job can be completed
Overtime stats
Breaks and rest periods
Time spent at a specific job site
Projected timelines
Labor cost analysis based on project or task or other variables
Employee PTO management
Productivity of workers

These data tools and analytics provide companies with the tools to spot weak points as well as improve upon their services. Without this type of data, it can be much harder to track and understand your weaknesses or strengths.

implementation strategies for mobile time clocks

FAQ on Mobile Time Clocks for Construction Crews

How do mobile time clocks ensure accurate location tracking?

Mobile time clocks use GPS tracking and geofencing to track employees are at the correct job site when clocking in or out. This makes it easy to know when employees leave a specific job site or area.

Can mobile time clocks be used without an internet connection?

Many mobile time clock solutions offer offline capabilities, allowing employees to clock in and out even without an internet connection. Once the internet is restored, the software will automatically upload the times to the cloud system.

How do mobile time clocks prevent buddy punching and time theft?

Mobile time clocks use GPS technology tied to the personal device of the user. You can't punch in for a buddy when that account is tied to a specific phone or phone number. That doesn't even include biometric additions.

Can mobile time clocks integrate with existing payroll and accounting systems?

Yes, most mobile time clock solutions are designed to integrate with popular payroll, accounting, and project management platforms. Even if they do not integrate, most systems give you the option to export the data to a 3rd party.

How can mobile time clocks help with labor law compliance?

Mobile time clocks can track hours worked, overtime, and mandatory break periods, helping construction companies adhere to labor laws and regulations. Automated alerts and reminders can further assist supervisors and employees in maintaining compliance, reducing the risk of violations and penalties.

Are mobile time clocks secure and reliable for handling sensitive employee data?

Providers of mobile time clocks implement robust security measures, such as encryption and secure cloud storage, to protect their customers' data.

What is the cost of implementing a mobile time clock system?

The cost of implementing a mobile time clock system can vary based on factors like the provider, features, the number of users, and the level of customization or integration required. Most in the industry use a tiered type system with their pricing.

Need Mobile Time Clocks for Your Construction Crew?

Do you need a new time clock system for your construction crew? Want software that can empower your employees and HR crew? Don't worry. 360Connect has your back! We help small businesses find software solutions every day! Just fill out our 1-2 minute form and we'll contact you to verify your information. From there, you'll receive up to 5 quotes, all 100% free! It's that easy!