Computer time clocks, also called time and attendance systems, are replacing the punch-card time clocks of the past in all kinds of industries. They provide numerous benefits to companies both large and small.

Entering employee arrival and departure times with computer time clocks is remarkably easy. Employees use unique identifiers to log in and out, typically cards with magnetic stripes or barcodes. Some computer time clocks use a biometric device to avoid "buddy punching," where employees log in for each other. Most common are devices that check fingerprints or handprints to ensure that the correct person is logging in and out. Iris scanners are also available but not widely deployed due to privacy concerns.

Benefits of computer time clocks
The benefits to computer time clocks come from the fact that they collect employee time information in a database. The collected data is then reviewed and approved by a manager so it can be used for payroll processing and custom reports.

These computer time clock packages also offer schedule management, which allows supervisors to create and maintain a schedule for each employee, including break times, holidays, and even whether overtime is allowable. With most systems, you can also track tardiness and patterns of absenteeism. Computer time clocks for larger companies feature more functionality and reporting, such as managing labor data according to job descriptions, projects, or locations, and even tracking production for employees paid by per unit manufactured.

Ready to purchase a computer time clock? You can submit a free request for quote, and multiple vendors will call you with your customized quotes. Or, instantly compare the different features that vendors can offer, to get more background information before you buy.