When running a remote operation that relies on teams dispersed across different time zones, ensuring smooth collaboration and frictionless project workflows is always a priority for management. However, trying to effectively monitor productivity and lead remote teams can be challenging. This is where employee time tracking apps have emerged as a game-changing innovation, because they empower modern businesses to embrace remote work and become more agile, collaborative, and productive. In this article, we'll discuss our five top choices for employee time tracking apps, highlighting some key features to help you find the best time tracking solution for you.


Apps for Time Tracking & Team Management 



1. Connecteam – A complete management solution


When it comes to time-tracking solutions, connecteam is probably the best all-around option on the market right now. This platform is feature-rich but also highly accessible and user-friendly, making it equally suitable for managing small and large teams. It boasts a modern mobile-first design, with a widely compatible app that allows team members to clock in and out with a single click on virtually any device.  

Connecteam leverages AI for automated scheduling, enabling you to easily monitor working hours, adjust shift rotas, and coordinate teams to optimize workflow efficiency, all while minimizing manual errors in admin. Connecteam also has GPS tracking, geofencing support, and a built-in team chat to facilitate complete clarity and accountability when managing teams. Last but not least, it also offers extensive payroll systems integration, allowing you to easily sync your timesheets with your provider to streamline payroll as well. All up, it's one of the best employee time tracking apps around.


2. Hubstaff – Remote monitoring with analytics


Hubstaff is an employee time tracking application that puts a greater emphasis on the analytical aspects of remote management.  The tool combines automated time logging with extensive project-based reporting and advanced monitoring features. Unlike other similar platforms, Hubstaff uses periodic screen capture as well as app and URL usage logs to provide a complete picture of what employees are working on. This provides absolute transparency over teams at all times. 

In addition to this, Hubstaff provides detailed data analytics on employee activity. It records keyboard and mouse movements, for instance, to highlight possible sticking points that may be hindering productivity. Moreover, it also offers geolocation tracking and built-in payroll automation.  

For managers looking to gain streamlined time tracking and gain deeper insight into employee productivity without micromanaging, Hubstaff is a solid option. 


3. Toggl Track – Prioritising simplicity


Toggle Track is a tracking tool that emphasises user-friendliness above all else. As a result, the tool is relatively lightweight in comparison to the other options on this list, but it is also one of the easiest to get up and running with. Toggl Tracks needs virtually no setup or onboarding, allowing users to begin tracking their working time with a single touch of a button. It provides a decidedly minimalist user interface, and even offers extensions for popular browsers like Chrome and Firefox. 

While Toggl Track doesn't offer the same kind of payroll integrations or automation as other tracking apps, it does have a standout attribute in its visual reporting features. The platform enables users to turn tracking data into simple, accessible charts, allowing those without extensive technical knowledge to get a fast and easily digestible insight into team productivity. For those working with smaller teams who are looking for a clean UI and a plug-and-play user experience, Toggl Track offers a great alternative to the more heavy-duty solutions out there. 


4. TimeCamp – A budget-friendly, no-frills option


TimeCamp is another more straightforward option for organizations with less complex needs. This platform does the essentials well, providing automated time tracking functionality as well as the ability for users to see which apps and sites employees are using. The platforms also enable managers to assign tracked time to certain projects, allowing managers to highlight the connection between specific tasks and the apps and URLs used while working on them. 

A nice feature of TimeCamp is the inclusion of budgeting and profitability tracking tools. These allow users to easily keep track of project costs and make adjustments to workflows where necessary to optimize financial planning. For budget-conscious organizations that are operating on a smaller scale, TimeCamp offers a good way to gain clarity over team productivity without breaking the bank or adding additional complexity to day-to-day management. 


Wrapping up


Effective time tracking is an essential aspect of what constitutes a successful remote operation, and while it can be a challenge, leveraging innovative HR tech can alleviate much of the headache that comes with it. Whether you're working with just a handful of people or running an entire department at a larger enterprise, there is an app out there for you. With the right tool at your disposal, you can facilitate transparency, accountability, and productivity to get the best out of your teams.