(650) 332-8623The 8 Best PTO Trackers for 2024
Looking for a PTO tracker for your construction business? We’ve reviewed 8 of the best apps on the market to help you!
With construction teams constantly on the move and projects demanding precise scheduling, managing paid time off (PTO) is crucial. Admins need reliable PTO trackers to make sure that operations run smoothly.
In 2024, there are numerous PTO tracking apps to choose from. Each offers unique features and tools. But how do you choose the right one for your company?
In this guide, we’ll navigate through the nine best options, highlighting their key features, benefits, and why they stand out. From user-friendly interfaces to advanced analytics, these tools are designed to meet the unique needs of businesses across many industries. By the end of this article, you can make an informed decision and choose the best tracker for you.
Below, you’ll find quick links to each app we’ve reviewed.
Top Picks
Below, you’ll find a summary of each app we’ve reviewed, with our scores, each app’s ideal use cases, its pricing, the availability of any free trials or free tiers, and the platforms on which the app is available. Each app has been thoroughly investigated and analyzed for users like you, with pros and cons, key features, integrations, and real user reviews.
Let’s take a look…
9.1 
14-day free trial, (no card needed)
7.6
7-day free trial
7.8
7-day free trial
7.1
Free demo offered
6.5
14-day free trial
7.1
14-day free trial
EDITOR’S NOTE: We created Workyard – the first app reviewed here – to address issues we encountered while struggling to track and manage construction payrolls for over 700 workers in over 50 construction businesses. We built the Workyard app from the ground up to support construction companies like yours, with industry-essential features like the industry’s most accurate time clock app with GPS and geofencing, intuitive contractor scheduling, construction cost tracking tools, and more.
Learn more about how Workyard works on our main website, or sign up for a 14-day free trial today to see what Workyard can do for your business.
Workyard
Scoring
Key Features
-
Streamlined PTO tracking and management
-
Accurate time tracking and GPS location
-
Easy payroll and invoicing integration
-
Simplified job costing and budgeting
-
Efficient team scheduling and dispatch
-
Real-time labor cost reporting and analytics
Simplifies management of PTO requests and approvals
Highly precise GPS-based time tracking
Real-time labor cost analytics
No built-in integrations for CRM systems such as Salesforce
Limited customization options
May require training for new users
Highlights
Workyard is a top choice for construction companies due to its robust features and user-friendly design. Workyard offers seamless integrations with many project management and payroll systems. This ensures all your data is synchronized, saving time and reducing data-entry errors.
One of Workyard’s key features is its real-time tracking capability. Admins can see up-to-the-minute updates on employee availability, making it easier to manage schedules and allocate resources effectively. Workyard’s intuitive interface also allows users to submit and approve PTO requests quickly, reducing administrative hassle.
Moreover, Workyard’s mobile app ensures employees can request time off and check their PTO balance from anywhere. This level of accessibility promotes transparency and keeps everyone informed. Plus, the app sends automatic reminders and notifications, ensuring that no request goes unnoticed.
PTO Tracking and Management
Workyard’s PTO tracking and management feature is designed to make the process both efficient and user-friendly. The system allows employees to request time off directly through the website or app. With just a few clicks, employees can submit their PTO requests, and managers receive instant notifications to review and approve them.
A standout aspect of Workyard’s PTO tracking is its real-time updates.
As soon as a PTO request is approved or denied, the system updates the employee’s balance automatically. This ensures all data is accurate and up-to-date, reducing the risk of scheduling conflicts or overbooked time off.
Workyard’s PTO management tools also offer analytics for valuable insights into your team’s PTO usage. Managers can easily generate reports to see trends, such as which employees are frequently taking time off. These insights help in planning and ensuring projects remain adequately staffed throughout the year.
Workyard also supports customizable PTO policies.
Admins can set up different accrual rates, carryover limits, and blackout dates according to the company’s specific needs. This flexibility ensures that the PTO tracking system aligns perfectly with the company’s policies and procedures.
The mobile app enhances the convenience of Workyard’s PTO tracking. Employees can check their PTO balances, submit requests, and receive approval notifications directly on their phones.
Accurate GPS Tracking
Workyard’s GPS-time tracking and geofencing features provide unparalleled accuracy and oversight for construction companies. These tools ensure managers have a clear, real-time view of where their team members are working.
Firstly, the GPS-time tracking feature allows employees to clock in and out from their job sites using their mobile devices. The system records the exact location at the time of clocking in or out, ensuring time entries are accurate and verified.
Geofencing takes this a step further by setting up virtual boundaries around job sites. When an employee enters or leaves these predefined areas, the system automatically logs their time. This ensures time is only recorded when employees are physically present at the job site, preventing any discrepancies or time theft.
All location data is automatically synced with time logs, providing a comprehensive view of employee attendance and location history. Managers can easily generate reports to analyze labor costs and productivity, helping to optimize resource allocation and project planning.
Easy Payroll Integrations
Workyard simplifies payroll management through its seamless integrations with popular payroll systems. The app integrates with leading payroll providers such as ADP, QuickBooks, and Gusto. These integrations allow for the automatic transfer of time tracking data to your preferred payroll system.
Workyard also integrates with popular construction accounting software, providing a holistic view of your company’s financial health.
Another significant advantage of Workyard’s integrations is their ease of setup. The platform offers a user-friendly interface that guides admins through the process, making it simple to connect with various payroll and accounting systems. This means companies can quickly implement Workyard without extensive IT support – and if you need more personalized support, Workyard’s team will work with you to set up integrations for apps with less straightforward connections.
Real-Time Job Costing and Budgeting
Workyard’s real-time job costing and budgeting features provide construction companies with precise financial oversight and control. These tools allow managers to monitor labor costs, track project budgets, and make informed decisions to enhance profitability.
Workyard’s job costing feature enables real-time tracking of labor costs against project budgets. As employees clock in and out, their hours are automatically allocated to specific projects, giving managers a clear view of labor expenditures.
Moreover, Workyard provides detailed cost breakdowns, showing where every dollar is spent. Managers can see labor costs segmented by task, phase, or employee, allowing for granular analysis.
In addition, Workyard’s budgeting tools facilitate the creation and management of project budgets. Managers can set budget limits for each project and receive real-time alerts when costs approach these thresholds. This proactive approach ensures projects stay within budget and helps in avoiding unexpected expenses.
Flexible Scheduling and Dispatch
Workyard’s scheduling tool allows managers to easily create and modify employee schedules. The intuitive drag-and-drop interface makes it simple to assign shifts, change start times, and move tasks between employees.
This flexibility is crucial for construction projects, where schedules often need to adapt to changing conditions and unexpected challenges.
Additionally, Workyard’s dispatch feature ensures the right personnel are assigned to the right tasks at the right times. Managers can quickly see who is available and who has the necessary skills for specific jobs.t with vario
Real-time updates play a significant role in Workyard’s scheduling system. As changes are made, notifications are automatically sent to employees, keeping everyone informed and reducing the likelihood of miscommunications. This feature is especially useful for last-minute changes or emergency situations, where quick and clear communication is essential.
Workyard also supports shift swapping and time-off requests directly through the platform. Employees can request to swap shifts or take time off, and managers can approve or deny these requests instantly.
Reporting and Analytics
Workyard’s reporting feature allows managers to generate detailed reports on various aspects of their operations.
Whether it’s tracking employee hours, monitoring PTO usage, or analyzing labor costs, Workyard provides customizable reports that can be tailored to meet specific needs. This flexibility ensures that managers have access to the precise data they need to make informed decisions.
Moreover, the analytics tools in Workyard go beyond basic reporting by offering in-depth analysis of key metrics. Managers can track trends over time, identify patterns, and pinpoint areas that require attention. For example, the system can highlight periods of high labor costs or identify which projects consistently go over budget, allowing managers to take corrective action.
Managers can also access up-to-the-minute information on project progress, employee performance, and budget status. This real-time visibility ensures any issues can be addressed promptly.
Workyard’s reporting and analytics are designed to be user-friendly. The platform offers intuitive dashboards that present data in a clear and easily digestible format to help managers quickly grasp essential insights without getting bogged down in complex data.
Reviews
At the top of each app review, we highlight aggregate user scores. At the time of publication, Workyard had the following ratings:
On the iOS App Store, RHEC615 calls Workyard “fast, easy to use, and great for growing companies.”
Best app ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
“By far the best app l’ve ever used for work. Most consistent and accurate app hands down. Haven’t had any difficulties at all, was very easy to use. I will never use another app for clocking my hours at work.”
Charles Settles calls the Android version of Workyard’s app “user-friendly”:
⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
CO“I really like the Workyard app. The time tracker is user-friendly and can be modified if you forget to clock in or don’t want to clock in early. You can easily change the start time, and it will automatically update for you. I think that feature is amazing. Thanks to the developers behind the scenes for keeping it running seamlessly!”
In May of 2024, superintendent Joseph H. left a Capterra review stating that he is “pleased with the product, customer service, and support”:
Happy Customer ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
I like the ease of being able to track our employees time and accuracy of presence on a job. We are able to utilize the time clock feature so we can give an accurate accounting of billable time to our clients. A lot of our services are billed out by the hour rather than by the job.”
Pricing
Free Trial?
14-day trial with no credit card required
Time Tracking
Annual: $6 / mo. per user + $50 base fee
Monthly: $8 / mo. per user + $50 base fee
Workforce Management
Annual: $13 / mo. per user + $50 base fee
Monthly: $16 / mo. per user + $50 base fee
Track worker PTO, worked hours, and more with Workyard.
See how it works
Jibble
Scoring
Key Features
-
Facial recognition time tracking
-
GPS-based location tracking
-
Detailed timesheet reporting
-
Automated payroll integration
-
Project and activity tracking
Facial recognition feature enhances security
Free basic plan
Detailed timesheet analytics
Limited offline functionality
Complex initial setup
Slow customer support response times
Highlights
Jibble offers a range of features aimed at simplifying time tracking and PTO management for construction companies. Here, we’ll explore its standout features, along with its strengths and shortcomings.
Jibble is known for its user-friendly interface. Employees can clock in and out using their mobile devices or desktops, making it convenient for a mobile workforce.
The system records time entries accurately, helping to reduce errors and ensure reliable payroll data. This ease of use is a significant benefit for companies with employees frequently on the move.
In terms of PTO tracking, Jibble allows employees to request time off directly through the platform. Managers can easily approve or deny these requests, and the system updates PTO balances in real-time.
Jibble offers a free plan with basic functionalities, making it accessible for small to medium-sized construction companies. However, to access more advanced features, such as comprehensive reporting and integrations, companies will need to upgrade to a paid plan. This tiered pricing can be advantageous for businesses with limited budgets.
On the downside, Jibble’s reporting capabilities are somewhat limited compared to more specialized platforms.
While it provides essential reports, companies looking for detailed analytics and customizable reporting options might find Jibble lacking. This could be a drawback for businesses that require in-depth data analysis for strategic planning.
Reviews
Jibble is one of the few apps in the time tracking space with no notable difference between its app store scores and its Capterra score.
The app is highly reviewed across all three platforms, which does indicate a positive customer experience.
Despite these impressive numbers, some users still think the app isn’t intuitive. iOS ciminlair said that the app was hard to use…
Difficult to navigate ⭐⭐⭐
“The application has the potential to be good and the free basic plan is a plus. However, it’s very difficult to navigate. My students often received error messages saying they couldn’t log in. I tried to resolve the problem, and sometimes it worked, but other times it did not.”
On the Google Play Store, user Mark Brouwer stated that some features are lacking…
⭐⭐⭐⭐
“The app has great features but is a little buggy and the reports interface is not super intuitive. I think as they make more updates in the future the app will get better.”
On Capterra, reviews are generally positive. However, a few of these admins voice the same concerns presented on the mobile app. Cydney I. said that the app is not very user-friendly..
⭐⭐⭐
C“I don’t think it’s user-friendly for those who don’t come from a tech background or are used to positions where you have multiple systems to keep track of daily.”
Pricing
Free Trial?
Free Tier
Premium
Annual: $2.49 / mo. per user
Monthly: $3.99 / mo. per user
Ultimate
Annual: $4.99 / mo. per user
Monthly: $7.99 / mo. per user
Vacation Tracker
Scoring
Key Features
-
Automated leave request process
-
Customizable leave policies
-
Real-time absence notifications
-
Native integration with Microsoft Teams and Slack
Works well with Slack and Microsoft Teams
Customizable leave policies
Automated leave approvals
Limited mobile functionality
Real-time notifications can sometimes be delayed
Advanced analytics may be insufficient for large enterprises
Highlights
Vacation Tracker allows admins to manage employee time off through an intuitive interface. Employees can request leave directly from their dashboards for managers to approve or deny.
A standout feature of Vacation Tracker is its customizable leave policies. Companies can tailor leave types, accrual rates, and approval workflows to match their needs. This flexibility ensures the system aligns with company policies.
Another notable feature is Vacation Tracker’s native integration with popular platforms like Slack and Microsoft Teams. This integration allows employees to request leave and receive notifications directly within these tools, ensuring that everyone stays informed about their leave status.
Vacation Tracker also has detailed reporting capabilities. Managers can generate reports to track leave balances, monitor usage trends, and identify potential staffing issues. These insights help in planning and can ensure projects are adequately staffed throughout the year.
While Vacation Tracker excels in PTO management, its functionalities are primarily focused on leave tracking. Companies looking for a more comprehensive solution that includes features like time tracking, job costing, and payroll integration might find Vacation Tracker lacking in these areas.
Additionally, Vacation Tracker can only be used via integration with another app. It doesn’t have a standalone mobile app. This could be a deal-breaker for companies that don’t use Slack or Microsoft Teams Finally, despite a subscription cost of $1 / mo. per user, all businesses must pay a minimum of $25 / month.
Reviews
Vacation Tracker doesn’t have any reviews on the App Store or the Google Play Store because it doesn’t offer a standalone mobile app. Instead, Vacation Tracker integrates directly with platforms like Slack and Microsoft Teams.
Despite the absence of a mobile app, Vacation Tracker has garnered decent reviews on Capterra. However, customers note that the software lacks versatility…
IT Director Michael G. says that the software needs more capability…
⭐⭐⭐⭐
“Overall: Overall, Vacation Tracker has streamlined our time off request, approval and tracking processes… Would like some additional reporting, or the ability to have the date/time that a request is submitted, the name of the approver, and approval date and time of a request be included in export data.”
Pricing
Free Trial?
7 days
Core
Annual: $275 billed annually
Monthly: $1 / mo. per user ($25 minimum)
Complete
Annual: $825 billed annually
Monthly: $3 / mo. per user ($75 minimum)
Clockify
Scoring
Key Features
-
Simple, intuitive interface for logging hours
-
Project management tools to organize tasks and deadlines
-
Detailed, customizable reporting and analytics
-
Real-time team collaboration tools
-
Expense tracking and monitoring tools
Comprehensive free plan
Intuitive user interface
Robust reporting tools
Limited project management tools
No built-in GPS tracking
Syncing issues with integrations and mobile app
Highlights
Clockify’s main focus is its time-tracking capabilities.
Employees can easily clock in and out using desktops and mobile phones. This flexibility ensures accurate time records, regardless of where employees work. The platform supports both manual and automatic time tracking.
Clockify offers straightforward PTO tracking functionality. Employees can request time off directly within the platform, and managers can approve or reject these requests with just a few clicks. Clockify automatically updates PTO balances, providing real-time visibility into available leave.
One of Clockify’s strengths is its detailed reporting capabilities. Managers can generate comprehensive reports to analyze labor costs, project progress, and PTO usage. These reports can be customized to offer insights that aid in strategic planning and resource allocation.
Clockify also integrates with a wide range of project management and payroll systems. The platform’s API also allows for custom integrations.
However, Clockify does have some limitations. While it excels in time tracking and reporting, its PTO management features are relatively basic compared to specialized PTO tracking tools.
Companies requiring advanced leave policies, detailed accrual tracking, or complex approval workflows might find Clockify’s PTO features lacking.
Additionally, while Clockify offers a free plan with essential features, access to more advanced functionalities requires a subscription to one of its paid plans. This tiered pricing can be a consideration for companies with tight budgets or those seeking a cost-effective solution.
In terms of user experience, Clockify is generally praised for its intuitive interface and ease of use. However, some users have reported occasional issues with syncing data and lag.
Reviews
Online reviews of Clockify emphasize several key aspects of the software.
Users generally appreciate its user-friendly interface and ease of setup. Many praise the free version, noting it offers ample features without requiring an upgrade.
However, some users highlight limitations, such as the absence of GPS tracking and advanced project management features. Additionally, while integrations are extensive, occasional syncing issues have been reported.
A recurring theme in Clockify’s written reviews seems to be its lack of usability on mobile devices.
iOS user D. says the app needs better mobile functionality…
Great App… needs better iPad support ⭐⭐⭐⭐
“Love the app… many cool features. Only complaints are: 1) needs landscape mode to make iPad version usable. Supporting only portrait mode means us keyboard users effectively can’t use it unless we disconnect the keyboard and 2) entering could be a little easier if there was a filter where one could enter only time related to a single project.”
Android user Dave V. also has issues with the mobile app…
⭐⭐⭐⭐
“I love this app, and have used it every day for years. The chrome extension is great, but the app suffers from some issues. If I stop a task via the PC, the mobile widget doesn’t seem to realize it and will keep counting. This leads to double entries and incorrect task durations, which could get me in a bit of hot water as I use this for work.”
On Capterra, Clockify slightly lags behind competitors. Many time-tracking apps on Capterra frequently receive average ratings of 4.8 or higher. Clockify is well-regarded, but it may not be the top choice for all users.
This may be due to its mobile issues, as Capterra reviewer Manik S. posted earlier this year…
Manik S. says the mobile app causes discrepancies…
⭐⭐⭐⭐
“Clockify has become my reliable companion in the world of freelancing. The interface is a breath of fresh air—simple, user-friendly, and perfectly tailored for someone always on the move. Now, let’s talk about the mobile app. It’s good, but not without its quirks. Navigating can feel a bit awkward, and some features seem to play hide and seek, making the experience less seamless compared to the desktop version. Syncing issues occasionally rear their head, causing minor discrepancies between mobile and web data. While not a deal-breaker, it’s akin to having a GPS suggest detours when you’re already running late.”
Pricing
Free Trial?
7 days
Basic
Annual: $3.99 / mo. per user
Monthly: $4.99 / mo. per user
Standard
Annual: $5.49 / mo. per user
Monthly: $6.99 / mo. per user
Pro
Annual: $7.99 / mo. per user
Monthly: $9.99 / mo. per user
Enterprise
Annual: $11.99 / mo. per user
Monthly: $14.99 / mo. per user
Factorial HR
Scoring
Key Features
-
Centralized employee data management
-
Automated payroll processing
-
Customizable PTO policies
-
Advanced performance tracking
-
Comprehensive HR analytics
Centralized employee data management
Advanced performance tracking
Customizable HR workflows
Limited third-party integrations
Requires time to configure and customize properly
Performance issues reported during peak usage times
Highlights
Factorial HR provides a centralized platform for managing all aspects of HR. This includes onboarding, document management, and performance reviews. Its user-friendly interface ensures HR managers can easily navigate and utilize the various features.
When it comes to PTO tracking, Factorial HR has robust and customizable options.
Requests can be submitted and approved directly through the platform. The system updates PTO balances in real-time, providing accurate and up-to-date information for both employees and managers. Factorial HR also supports different types of leave, such as vacation, sick leave, and personal days.
Factorial HR also offers detailed reporting and analytics capabilities. Managers can generate reports on PTO usage, employee attendance, and other HR metrics.
However, Factorial HR does have some limitations. While it excels in HR and PTO management, it lacks some advanced features found in specialized project management tools.
Companies looking for comprehensive project management functionalities might need to use additional software alongside Factorial HR.
Reviews
Factorial HR is popular on Android, as evidenced by its 15,000 reviews (compared to just over 200 on iOS and Capterra). This significant disparity highlights a preference for Factorial HR among Android users.
The abundance of feedback on Android suggests a larger user base and potentially more frequent updates and support for the Android app.
That said, multiple iOS users have reported issues clocking in, with no apparent resolution or response from the developers.
iOS users Nick and S. both said that they experience app errors…
⭐
“This may be a user issue but it appears that you do not have the option to clock in or out on the iPhone app. Please advise!” – Nick⭐
C“Error on app. Can’t clock in. Yet to be fixed. Will update review when fixed.” – S
Both reviews were posted one year ago, and have not been updated. Still, the issues seemed to persist on the Android app, as well, as user M.P. noted…
⭐⭐⭐
“The slider to clock in and out is very prone to lag, and sometimes doesn’t register the time at all.”
Like most software, Capterra reviews of Factorial HR tend to come more from administrators than frontline workers.
Admins typically provide in-depth feedback on the software’s capabilities, user interface, and overall effectiveness in streamlining HR processes. In contrast, frontline workers are less likely to engage in such detailed reviews, focusing more on daily usability and ease of access.
Still, Capterra Carlos R. reports issues with Factorial HR…
⭐⭐⭐⭐
“There is room for improvements. I ran into occasional lag in the interface which can be frustrating when I need to get a task done quickly. Also, the performance reviews section could be more robust. It would benefit from more customizable options to target different competencies and grading methods. I have also noticed that sometimes integration with other systems can be a bit challenging.”
Pricing
Free Trial?
Free demo
Custom Pricing
Starts at $4.50 / mo. per user
Buddy Punch
Scoring
Key Features
-
Mobile device GPS-time tracking
-
Portable time clocks for on-site use
-
FaceFront Biometrics for verification during clock-ins
-
Detailed worker analytics
-
Built-in reporting tools
Good clock-in solutions for companies with large, single-location teams
Biometric verification to prevent buddy punching and time theft
Can be combined with other Arcoro products
Can be unreliable for field workers who move between multiple locations
Some users report inaccuracies in time tracking records
The app can run slowly on certain worker phones
Highlights
Buddy Punch simplifies time tracking with its intuitive interface, making it easy for employees to clock in and out via desktop or mobile devices.
The platform supports QR codes and facial recognition, enhancing security and preventing time theft through buddy punching. This biometric verification ensures that the right person is clocking in, maintaining the integrity of time records.
Buddy Punch allows employees to request time off directly within the system. Managers can approve or deny these requests easily, and the system automatically updates PTO balances in real-time.
Buddy Punch also offers detailed reporting and analytics. Managers can generate custom reports to analyze labor costs, track employee hours, and monitor PTO usage.
However, Buddy Punch is not without its shortcomings.
Some users have reported issues with the accuracy of GPS tracking, particularly for mobile workers in remote or fluctuating locations. This can pose challenges for businesses with employees frequently on the move.
Furthermore, while Buddy Punch offers various pricing plans, some users may find the cost higher than similarly-positioned time tracking solutions.
Reviews
Buddy Punch has relatively positive reviews across the board. However, admins of larger companies have noted complaints from employees regarding the app’s ease of use.
The company South Florida Caterer said the app doesn’t work well for larger businesses…
⭐⭐
“We have a catering business with about 75 employees that we pull from based on the size of our events. Having to inactivate them all and then reactivate every month led to errors and hold ups when employees would clock in. The software would be better if it only charged for employees that actively punch in during a month while letting us leave all of our employees active in the system. Also – we had a pattern of some employees with darker skin having problems with facial recognition. So that was bit embarrassing and led to the final decision to put everyone back on punchcards.”
Android user Ashley P. said that she had issues making edits as an administrator…
⭐⭐⭐
“Good program but app does not let you edit as administrator which is frustrating. I have to go to the actual website and edit hours. Its a pain when you’re at a jobsite with poor service and can’t load the page.”
Business owner Sean E. said that his employees has trouble using Buddy Punch…
⭐⭐⭐
“My employees have a terrible time with Buddy Punch. The app does not work on a couple of their phones. When they do punch in on the computer, the buttons don’t function like they’re supposed to. For instance, they try to punch in and edit time, but it just punches them in and doesn’t allow them to edit their time. It has also automatically punched an employee out five minutes after punching in (they did not punch out).”
Pricing
Free Trial?
14 days
Standard
Annual: $3.99 / mo. per user + $19 base fee
Monthly: $4.99 / mo. per user + $19 base fee
Pro
Annual: $4.99 / mo. per user + $19 base fee
Monthly: $5.99 / mo. per user + $19 base fee
Premium
Annual: $6.99 / mo. per user + $19 base fee
Monthly: $7.99 / mo. per user + $19 base fee
Time Doctor
Scoring
Key Features
-
Automated time tracking with offline capabilities
-
Productivity reporting and analytics for workers
-
Real-time dashboards for employee monitoring
-
Scheduling and workforce management tools
-
Over 60 third-party integrations via browser extensions
Good for white-collar businesses requiring compliance tracking
Straightforward time-tracking for office workers
Effective for tracking time in hybrid work environments
Integrations are limited to Standard and Premium plans
May not be the best fit for businesses in field services
Mobile time tracking can be somewhat unreliable
Highlights
Time Doctor excels in detailed time tracking.
Employees can log their work hours through desktop or mobile applications, capturing data on how time is spent. This feature is particularly useful for businesses that require meticulous tracking for billing and productivity analysis. The platform also allows for manual time entries and corrections, ensuring that all recorded hours are accurate.
Like many of the apps discussed in this article, Time Doctor provides a straightforward solution to PTO tracking.
Requests and approvals can be submitted directly within the platform. The system updates PTO balances in real-time, giving both employees and managers clear visibility into available leave. This functionality helps businesses manage time off efficiently and maintain accurate records.
Advanced reporting is another Time Doctor strength. The platform offers comprehensive reports on employee productivity, time usage, and project progress. Managers can generate custom reports to analyze performance and identify areas for improvement.
However, Time Doctor is not without its shortcomings.
Some users have reported frustration with the user interface, which can seem complex and overwhelming, especially for new users. Additionally, while Time Doctor offers robust tracking features, its integration options aren’t nearly as extensive as many competitors’.
Moreover, mobile app performance can be inconsistent, with some users experiencing issues with data syncing and reliability. This can be a drawback for businesses with mobile workforces reliant on accurate time tracking.
Reviews
Time Doctor’s reviews from employees are notably worse than those from admins. Many employees describe the app as fundamentally unusable for anything other than clocking in or out. Occasional syncing problems with the mobile app contribute to negative feedback.
In contrast, admins on Capterra appreciate the detailed analytics and reporting tools, which help in managing productivity and compliance, leading to more favorable reviews from their perspective.
iOS user Joe says that the mobile app is buggy…
⭐⭐
“This app and company has so much potential to truly be great! However all their software is buggy and works sporadically. The mobile app is basically unusable for trying to manage remote workers and stay on top of time worked. If only works for starting/ stopping a timer, nothing more. If you need any other functionality besides that, then you have to use a computer.”
Rommel P. is one of many Android users that feel like Time Doctor doesn’t accurately track their time…
⭐
“You can’t trust this app to keep accurate track of your time. I’ve had to send numerous bug reports of the app failing to sync my hours and in a couple of times, in fact, losing hours. I felt like it was wage theft. I could never be 100% sure that all my hours were saved and I was paid for all the hours I worked.”
Most Capterra reviews of Time Doctor are positive. However, admins still experience some issues with that app, like executive assistant Monica D.:
⭐⭐⭐⭐
“Time Doctor is constantly being updated and if you don’t know to update the application, or it doesn’t happen automatically, the app will not work as intended. The usual give away is that the app will often stop tracking automatically when starting computer use. Additionally, the admin view is limited. It would be helpful to view the same report/information for multiple employees at the same time. A lot of things have to be done individually.”
Pricing
Free Trial?
14 days
Basic
Annual: $5.90 / mo. per user
Monthly: $7 / mo. per user
Standard
Annual: $8.40 / mo. per user
Monthly: $10 / mo. per user
Premium
Annual: $16.70 / mo. per user
Monthly: $20 / mo. per user
BambooHR
Scoring
Key Features
-
Centralized employee information database
-
Time-off tracking and management
-
Employee self-service portal
-
Performance management tools
-
Advanced reporting and analytics
Centralized employee data management
Detailed insights into employee performance metrics
Allows businesses to customize HR workflows
Fewer third-party integrations than other HR platforms
Requires significant time and effort to configure and customize
Occasional system slowdowns and syncing issues
Highlights
BambooHR offers a wide range of HR management features, including employee onboarding, performance management, and benefits administration. The platform’s centralized database allows HR managers to store and access employee information efficiently, streamlining administrative tasks and improving data accuracy.
Another notable feature is BambooHR’s reporting and analytics capabilities. Managers can generate detailed reports on various HR metrics, such as turnover rates, employee performance, and PTO usage.
However, users have stated that BambooHR’s reporting tools can be somewhat rigid and difficult to customize. Additionally, the platform’s pricing is on the higher side for smaller companies.
Another potential drawback is that while BambooHR offers a wide range of features, it might lack the depth and specialization found in tools dedicated solely to specific HR functions, such as PTO tracking, advanced performance management, or detailed benefits administration.
Reviews
BambooHR has garnered thousands of reviews from Apple, Android, and PC users. However, complex software like BambooHR comes with a steep learning curve and plenty of bugs. Some reviews highlight these issues.
iOS user Josh is one of many that notifications won’t go away, even after clearing all messages and notices…
⭐⭐⭐⭐
“Sometimes I get a notification that simply won’t clear. No messages that are unread, no announcements missed, no time off requests, nothing – and the notification won’t go away. Now I have 2 that won’t go away – possibly because I approved a time off request through email and not through the app? Not sure, but still annoying.”
Charlie S. says that BambooHR can be difficult to use…
⭐⭐⭐
“My problem with BambooHR in general is the inability to locate my company’s domain name associated with BambooHR. Without it you can’t log in successfully. You need your username, password, and company domain name. After hours of Internet searching I could not learn what it is or how to find it. Frustrated!!!! The app itself is generic and stripped down basic.”
CEO John A. sys the app isn’t great for employee coaching or project tasking…
⭐⭐⭐⭐
“Employee coaching and project tasking are not great. It really is not good at either of these. Too hard to track, follow, and update. For hiring and onboarding it doesn’t sync well with Indeed and we always have issues. Like when rejecting a candidate, we have to manually send an email to every candidate that applies. Time tracking needs some minor tweaking. It would be great if it would auto notify of odd punches and help control OT better. The eNPS program is dumb and not realistic. We changed the questions to the Gallup 13 instead.”
Pricing
Free Trial?
30 days
Contact
Must contact BambooHR for pricing information
Final Thoughts
Navigating the myriad of PTO tracking apps available to you can be overwhelming, but finding the right tool is crucial to streamline leave management.
Each of the nine apps we’ve explored offers unique strengths. While some tools excel in specific areas like advanced reporting or mobile accessibility, others offer a more balanced suite of features.
Ultimately, the best PTO tracking app for your company will depend on your specific requirements, budget, and the scale of your operations. Whether you prioritize detailed compliance tracking, robust integrations, or intuitive user experiences, there’s a solution out there tailored to your needs.
For a comprehensive and reliable PTO tracking solution that integrates seamlessly with your existing systems, try Workyard.
With its real-time updates, advanced analytics, and user-friendly interface, Workyard is designed to meet the unique challenges of managing a construction workforce. Sign up for a free trial of Workyard today to see how it can transform your PTO management and overall productivity.
Our Scoring System Explained
Our 8-part scoring system was created to help you understand the potential value of any software we review simply and fairly.
We created it after reviewing dozens of software products, which we covered in depth, but without providing a direct and simple way for readers to compare products on their merits – without spending a lot of time looking through our articles for the information they needed to make an informed decision.
Every app we review will include Customer Support and Company scores, which we’ll explain in more detail below. Many of the factors reviewed in this article will also be consistent across most (or all) of our software reviews, with some differences:
The 8 factors assessed and their contribution to a product’s overall score may differ slightly from product to product based on various factors, such as the use case we’re reviewing for, the type of business these products are tailored to, and other considerations. However, all reviews will feature an 8-part score, weighted and combined to calculate each product’s overall score.
How We Score Software
All factors in our reviews are scored on a 10-point scale – technically 11 points – from 0-10. However, we only give products a score of 0 if it does not include an essential feature at all, and we try to avoid giving out 0 scores if a product can demonstrate any functionality in line with the specific factor being reviewed.
In general, the 0-10 range translates as:
- 9.0 – 10 – One of the absolute best in its category (amazing).
- 7.5 – 8.9 – Very good, but with some minor issues (very good).
- 6.0 – 7.4 – Mediocre performance with notable shortcomings (average).
- 3.0 – 5.9 – This feature is not ready for prime time (borderline).
- 1.0 – 2.9 – This feature actually makes its product worse (unacceptable).
- 0 – The product doesn’t include this important feature at all.
How We Calculate Overall Scores
The 8 factors reviewed are weighted based on an overall total of 100%:
- Ease of Use: 20%
- Time Tracking Accuracy: 20%
- Scheduling Features: 15%
- Job Tracking: 15%
- Integrations: 10%
- Customer Support: 15%
- Company: 5%
Methodology for Each Factor
Ease of Use
We evaluate a product’s ease of use based on three main considerations:
- How easy is it to set up this app?
- How easy is it for managers to use the backend dashboard?
- How easy is it for frontline workers to use the (mobile) app?
These three considerations cover the main ways you and your team would use the software being reviewed – when you first obtain it, when someone (a manager, executive, team leader, or similar role) needs to use it to manage people, money, data, and other things, and when workers you’re tracking use the app (usually a mobile version of the software designed for frontline and/or field team members) to clock in, clock out, record time worked, or address other day-to-day needs.
Time Tracking Accuracy
Every minute matters when you’re trying to control payroll costs. This factor accounts for various features and common needs in time-tracking apps, such as…
- How accurate or precise is its GPS tracking capability?
- How accurate – and how customizable – is its geofencing feature?
- How accurate is its travel and mileage tracking (if available)?
- Can it automatically clock workers in and out based on the above?
- Can you set and/or restrict rules for clocking in and out?
- Can the app continue tracking workers while offline?
- How easy is its mobile app and/or kiosk for frontline workers?
Scheduling Features
Many construction businesses prefer to manage as many aspects of employee labor activity as possible in a single app, which is why many time-tracking apps also include worker scheduling as a core feature.
When we consider a product’s scheduling features, we look at:
- Its dashboard customizability (daily, weekly, or monthly views).
- Its project-based scheduling and visibility.
- Its real-time updates and notifications for workers.
- Its real-time map views of worker locations for best-fit scheduling.
- Its recurring schedule (copies to subsequent weeks, etc.) functionality.
Job Tracking
This factor helps you understand if the software can also provide insight into specific projects, which is particularly handy when your business deals with many customers or clients who generally need shorter-term work. Effective job tracking typically also includes accurate job costing functionality for construction companies.
We assess several things when calculating a product’s job tracking score:
- Its project-based tracking for multiple projects per day/week/etc.
- Its ability to track multiple / many projects simultaneously.
- Its use of (and your ability to customize) construction cost codes.
- Any built-in job costing views.
- Any integrations for cost coding (QuickBooks etc.)
Integrations
No business can operate on a single app, which is why integrations with other apps and tools are such important aspects of modern business software.
To calculate a product’s integration score, we’ll examine:
- How many native integrations (the simplest connection) does it offer?
- How effective and easy-to-use are its integrations with payroll software?
- Does it have robust data import and export features?
Customer Support
Learning how to use a new app can be frustrating, even if it’s meant to be the most user-friendly app around. That’s why great customer support is so essential when considering which time-tracking app to use.
Customer support scores are calculated based on:
- Live support channels available (phone, email, chat, etc.).
- Live support hours (business hours only, 24/7, etc.).
- The strength of the product’s online help center and/or FAQs.
- What other users say about support in online reviews.
Company
A great company with a highly customer-friendly approach can often make up for shortcomings in their software products – at least up to a point.
When assessing this score, we’ll examine:
- Transparency (easy-to-find pricing, etc.)
- Trial period (duration, feature availability, credit card requirements, etc.).
- Subscription flexibility (contracts, required durations, etc.).
- Ease of cancellation or pausing subscriptions.
- Customer perceptions (online product reviews).
- Website (a minor consideration, but great companies tend to have great websites).
Any questions about our scoring system? Have any suggestions on how we could make it even better? Click here to send us your feedback – we’d love to hear from you!
PTO tracking is the process of managing and monitoring employees’ paid time off, which includes vacation days, sick leave, personal days, and other types of leave. It involves recording when employees take time off, ensuring that leave balances are accurately updated, and making sure that the company’s leave policies are followed.
Effective PTO tracking helps businesses maintain smooth operations by preventing staffing shortages and scheduling conflicts. It also ensures compliance with labor laws and provides transparency for both employers and employees regarding available leave. Many companies use specialized software to automate and streamline PTO tracking.
PTO tracking works by recording employee leave requests and updating their leave balances automatically. Employees can request time off through a digital platform, and managers can approve or deny these requests. The system logs the approved time off and adjusts the employee’s available PTO balance accordingly.
Advanced PTO tracking tools also offer real-time updates, ensuring accurate records and preventing scheduling conflicts. These tools integrate with payroll and HR systems, providing seamless data flow and compliance with company policies and labor laws.
The best PTO tracker with a free trial is Workyard. It offers a robust set of features designed to streamline leave management, making it ideal for businesses of all sizes. With Workyard, employees can easily request time off, and managers can approve or deny requests with a few clicks. The platform automatically updates PTO balances in real-time, ensuring accuracy and preventing scheduling conflicts.
Additionally, Workyard integrates seamlessly with other HR and payroll systems, providing a comprehensive solution for all your leave management needs. Its user-friendly interface and advanced capabilities make it a standout choice for a free PTO tracking solution.
To create a PTO tracker in Excel, start by setting up a spreadsheet with columns for employee names, PTO types (vacation, sick leave, etc.), accrued hours, used hours, and remaining balance. Enter employee details and initial PTO balances.
Use formulas to calculate the remaining balance by subtracting used hours from accrued hours. Add a date column to track the specific days off. Conditional formatting can highlight exceeded PTO limits.
Regularly update the sheet with new PTO requests and adjustments. This simple setup helps maintain an accurate record of employee leave, ensuring effective PTO management.
