Is your business losing time and money to mismanaged routes? If so, route optimization software could be essential for your construction business to reduce fuel costs and complete timely deliveries.
If you’re looking to elevate your company’s performance in 2024, choosing the best route optimization software is the key. But with so many options available, you need to know which solutions stand out and why.
To help, we’ve curated a list of the top 7 route optimization software solutions for 2024. These solutions have been selected based on their features, user reviews, and industry reputation.
By choosing the right route optimization software, your business can:
- Minimize travel time and fuel consumption
- Reduce your carbon footprint
- Improve client retention rates
- Boost your bottom line
Today, we’ll explore each software solution, exploring unique features, benefits, and potential drawbacks. Whether you’re a small business owner or managing a large fleet, there’s something on this list for you.
Ready to learn how to stay ahead of the competition, improve your operational efficiency, and drive your business forward?
Let’s dive in.
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…
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.
Key Features
-
Real-time GPS tracking for accurate locations
-
Intelligent route optimization for minimized travel time
-
Detailed job scheduling for precise task management
-
Comprehensive reporting tools for performance insights
-
Automatic timesheets for accurate labor tracking
Comprehensive time tracking with detailed job costing
Advanced route optimization
User-friendly interface with intuitive navigation
Limited customization options
Fewer third-party integrations than some competitors
Advanced features may require a learning curve
Highlights
Workyard offers a robust set of features for businesses needing route optimization and comprehensive field management solutions.
Its route planning algorithms and real-time GPS tracking enable efficient travel and accurate location updates. The interactive map interface provides easy navigation, allowing users to manage and adjust routes as needed.
Workyard also excels in time tracking and job costing, offering detailed insights into labor costs and project expenses. Moreover, the platform’s user-friendly interface is intuitive, allowing even non-technical users to navigate and utilize its features easily.
Workyard’s customizable routing options can be useful for various industries. This flexibility, combined with its advanced features, positions Workyard as a powerful tool for businesses looking to optimize their field operations.
Real-time GPS Tracking
Workyard’s real-time GPS tracking capabilities offer construction companies better visibility and control over their fleet operations.
By equipping each worker with a GPS tracking app, Workyard enables managers to monitor the exact location of their fleet at any given moment. This real-time data allows for precise tracking of vehicle movements, giving drivers the most efficient routes to follow.
The GPS tracking system also provides updates on traffic conditions and road closures, allowing for immediate route adjustments to avoid delays. Managers can access this information through an easy-to-use dashboard, which offers a comprehensive overview of all fleet activities.
Furthermore, Workyard’s real-time GPS tracking helps improve accountability among drivers. Knowing their location is constantly monitored encourages drivers to follow designated routes and adhere to safety protocols.
Intelligent Route Optimization
Workyard’s intelligent route optimization capabilities are designed to maximize efficiency and minimize costs. By leveraging algorithms, Workyard plans the most efficient routes for your fleet, taking factors like traffic conditions, road closures, and vehicle capacities into account.
One of the key features of Workyard’s route optimization is its ability to adapt in real time.
As traffic patterns change or unexpected obstacles arise, Workyard automatically recalculates routes to find the best alternatives. This dynamic adjustment helps prevent delays and keeps your operations running smoothly.
Workyard also considers each job site’s specific requirements, such as delivery windows and vehicle restrictions, to ensure compliance with project constraints. The software creates routes that are efficient, practical, and feasible.
Furthermore, Workyard’s route optimization includes detailed scheduling capabilities…
Detailed Job Scheduling
Workyard’s job scheduling capabilities help companies manage their daily operations with precision. This feature allows managers to create and assign jobs via a drag-and-drop calendar, including any last-minute changes.
Workyard’s job scheduling feature includes factors like employee availability, skill sets, and job site requirements. This allows the most qualified workers to be assigned to each job, enhancing the quality of work.
Workyard also offers mobile notifications, so everyone can be in the loop about scheduling no matter where they are. This helps to avoid confusion and miscommunication.
Lastly, Workyard enables managers to analyze job scheduling efficiency, identify bottlenecks, and implement improvements with comprehensive reporting features…
Comprehensive Reporting Tools
Workyard’s reporting tools provide companies with the insights needed to make informed decisions. These tools gather and analyze data from various aspects of your business, offering a clear and detailed view of your performance metrics.
Managers can customize reports to focus on metrics relevant to their needs, whether it’s tracking project timelines, monitoring budget adherence, or evaluating employee performance.
Workyard’s reporting tools also include real-time data updates, allowing managers to make decisions based on the most current information.
This real-time insight is crucial for responding promptly to any issues that arise, preventing minor problems from escalating into major setbacks. For instance, if a project is running behind schedule, the system can highlight this, enabling quick adjustments to resource allocation or workflow.
Furthermore, these tools offer historical data analysis, helping companies identify trends and patterns over time. By understanding past performance, managers can forecast future needs and make proactive improvements to their processes.
Automatic Timesheets
By leveraging GPS and geofencing, Workyard records timesheets accurately every time. Workyard’s timesheets provide real-time visibility into workforce activities, so managers can monitor who is on-site, who is running late, and who has completed their shifts.
Furthermore, automatic timesheets reduce the potential for time theft and buddy punching. With GPS-enabled tracking, managers can verify employees are on-site and working as scheduled.
Finally, Workyard’s timesheets seamlessly integrate with payroll systems. This enables employee hours to be accurately transferred to payroll, streamlining the payment process and reducing the risk of discrepancies.
Employees simply clock in and out using their mobile devices, and the system automatically logs their hours, including breaks and overtime.
Reviews
At the time of publication, Workyard had the following ratings:
An anonymous iOS user said Workyard helped him keep track of his workforce…
⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
“It’s a good app to use for your business to keep track of time cards and see if your workers are where they’re supposed to be…”
In June 2024, Android user Ralph M. said he had positive experiences with Workyard’s customer service…
⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
“…When there is an issue, and if you need a question answered they answer quickly and are very professional and do not beat around the bush. They give you an answer that is accurate. I love the things that they have in place to help us as employees to get the right information.”
Business owner Desirea B. said Workyard was the best app for her company…
⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
“Workyard has exceeded my expectations in every way! I have been so busy that I haven’t spent enough time doing little things in it that I want to do but I am blown away at how simple it was to implement this into our company and set up the guys saving time and energy chasing down receipts, photos of the jobs, daily updates on job statuses, and timesheets. It is a timesaver and a blessing!”
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
Manage routes, schedules, tasks, and more with Workyard
See how it worksScoring
Key Features
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Dynamic route planning
-
Real-time GPS tracking
-
Automated scheduling
-
Predictive analytics for demand forecasting
-
Customizable routing parameters
Dynamic re-routing capabilities
Predictive analytics for future route planning
Automated scheduling
Lack of robust inventory management features
Limited offline functionality
Basic reporting tools
Highlights
OptimoRoute is a route optimization tool designed to enhance the productivity of businesses with mobile workforces.
A standout feature is its advanced route planning capabilities, which allow users to create the most efficient routes based on real-time data. This enables deliveries, service calls, and other field activities to be completed in the shortest time possible.
A strength of OptimoRoute is its user-friendly interface. Managers can quickly input job details and generate optimized routes, which can be adjusted on-the-fly to account for unexpected traffic delays or last-minute changes.
OptimoRoute’s real-time tracking feature provides visibility into the location and status of each vehicle, allowing managers to track their workforce and make adjustments as needed.
However, OptimoRoute’s extensive features can be overwhelming for smaller companies or those with less complex routing needs. Some users have noted the initial setup and learning curve can be steep.
Lastly, OptimoRoute’s pricing structure should be a consideration for budget-conscious businesses. At the cheapest rate of $34.10 per user per month, costs can add up quickly.
Reviews
OptimoRoute has mixed reviews. While many are satisfied with its route optimization capabilities, there are a number of users who find the software unintuitive.
An anonymous iOS user noted drivers with more than 100 destinations cannot see the order of their deliveries…
⭐⭐⭐
“They removed the numbers on the map overview, making a huge benefit of the app now useless. A hundred dots scattered on a map doesn’t correspond to anything now, and you can’t even tell the direction of the route you’ll be driving. Good luck if you hit a road closure, school zone, or accident, and just blindly go about your day.”
Android user Ron F. said the route optimization feature was lacking…
⭐
“Keeps turning off on duty over and over again and won’t save any overrides. It is giving a false time because of this problem. Plus it’s not optimizing the routes correctly making me have to use another app to route in a more optimized fashion. would be nice to have an optimize route button like all the other routing apps. Make it to where it’s not putting the stops back in the to do list after I’ve already done them. I have to reject them because of this annoying problem.”
An anonymous COO on Capterra said the lack of live traffic data is a hindrance to their company…
⭐⭐⭐
“There are a number of improvements that could be made to this software, too numerous to recount here. And while the entire industry suffers from this, the fact that it’s not married to live traffic data makes the software basically useless in terms of tracking driver effectiveness. Essentially this software is slightly better than just doing it through a spreadsheet.”
Pricing
Free Trial?
30 days
Lite
Annual: $35.10 / mo. per user
Monthly: $39 / mo. per user
Pro
Annual: $44.10 / mo. per user
Monthly: $49 / mo. per user
Custom
Contact OptimoRoute for details.
Scoring
Key Features
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Multi-stop route planning
-
Real-time route adjustments
-
In-depth analytics for performance tracking
-
Geofencing for GPS tracking
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Customizable routing rules
Extensive multi-stop planning
Geofencing alerts for location monitoring
Robust customization options
Limited integration with third-party CRMs
No built-in tools for handling last-minute changes
Inconsistent performance
Highlights
Route4Me is a route optimization solution tailored for businesses with complex logistics needs.
One of its most notable features is its scalability, making it suitable for both small teams and large enterprises. The software excels in handling multi-stop routes, optimizing paths for numerous vehicles.
A key strength of Route4Me is its ease of use. The platform provides a straightforward interface that allows users to quickly input addresses and generate optimized routes.
Additionally, Route4Me supports integrations with other tracking systems, offering real-time visibility into vehicle locations and route progress.
Route4Me also offers features like route planning, dispatching, and analytics, which help managers make data-driven decisions.
While Route4Me’s interface is user-friendly, the software can become less intuitive when managing extremely large datasets or highly complex routing scenarios. Users may find the system struggles with performance under heavy loads, leading to slower processing times.
Reviews
Route4Me has garnered thousands of reviews from iPhone and Android users alike. However, many state the app is prone to freezing and glitching when processing a large amount of information.
An anonymous iOS user said the app constantly freezes up…
“Freezing up.” – ⭐
“The app continues to freeze up from the destinations section. And yes, the tablet is running the most updated iOS version.”
In May 2024, Android user Iman S. said the app runs slowly when processing lots of data…
⭐⭐⭐
“The app is too heavy. When it starts collecting cache/data, the apps will become slow. The map is not up to date. For example, sometimes the road is not available anymore because they’ve built over the road. And when there is no connection or heavy traffic, the app will stop on its own. That is my experience using this app. Hopefully when it gets an update, the apps will become better and lighter.”
On Capterra, Logistics Coordinator Brenda C. said the software sometimes causes drivers routes to overlap…
⭐⭐⭐⭐
“When using the program to create multiple driver routes for large areas, it tends to have multiple routes attend the same locations, thus not being very efficient. Address book/routed addresses need to be updated in address book and each route location is routed in order to make any adjustments to the address/alias etc. Would be way more convenient to be able to update the address book and changes to reflect all routed stops for location. Search bar sometimes needs to be very specific to quickly access information.”
Pricing
Free Trial?
7 days
Route Planning
$40 / mo. per user ($200 minimum)
Route Optimization
$60 / mo. per user ($300 minimum)
Business Optimization
$90 / mo. per user ($450 minimum)
Scoring
Key Features
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Automated route planning
-
Real-time tracking
-
Predictive ETAs
-
Customizable route settings
-
Driver performance analytics
User-friendly interface
Predictive ETAs for delivery times
Focus on driver performance analytics
Limited multi-stop planning capabilities
No built-in inventory management
Basic reporting tools
Highlights
Routific is route optimization software designed to help businesses streamline their delivery and service operations. Routific excels in route optimization, helping businesses reduce driving time and fuel consumption.
One of Routific’s strengths is its intuitive user interface. The platform is designed with ease of use in mind, allowing users to quickly set up and start optimizing routes. Managers can easily input multiple addresses and generate efficient routes in a matter of minutes.
Routific also provides real-time updates and notifications. As conditions change, such as traffic congestion or weather disruptions, the software can adjust routes on-the-fly to keep deliveries on time.
However, Routific lacks detailed analytics and reporting tools capabilities compared to the other software on this list. Businesses needing in-depth data analysis might find this aspect lacking.
Additionally, Routific has a separate pricing scale from the other apps on this list. Routific charges users on a per-order basis rather than a monthly rate. This means that as your business grows, the cost of using the app will also grow.
Reviews
Overall, Routific has mixed reviews online. While advocates for the software praise its ease of use, many users experience glitches and bugs.
This iOS user said too many notifications drained their phone battery…
⭐⭐
“So happy to be deleting this app after a year of over paying for a glitchy product they don’t stand by at all. The customer notifications were a nice feature but I’m so happy to not have this constantly draining my phone, crashing, leaving me stranded, and to never deal with customer service without results again.”
An anonymous Android user said the app constantly crashes…
⭐
“Quits on me mid route all the time. Last week the “Unfortunately this app has stopped…” window continuously popped up. Clunky, not very intuitive. Can’t change route after last stop, numbers on list disappear after completed stop, doesn’t allow you to set your navigational app (so you have to choose it EVERY time you drive to another stop). Could be more hands free. Does not switch to landscape view when the device is turned.”
On Capterra, Fleet Manager Kajetan Z. noted the customization options were lacking…
⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
“It is lacking some simple features, like more notes for drivers. I need a note that I can name. My guys have to put bread into deliveries, and for them to know how much, I would like a customizable note that I could name and add numbers too…. Also, there are a few bugs, and the software becomes a bit slow to respond when you go over 250 deliveries.”
Pricing
Free Trial?
7 days
First 1,000 Orders
$150 / mo. flat rate
1,001-2,000 Orders
$0.15 / per order
2,001+ Orders
$0.13 / per order
Scoring
Key Features
-
Multi-stop route optimization
-
Real-time route adjustments
-
Import/export functionality
-
Customizable routing preferences
-
Detailed route reports for performance analysis
Easy import/export of data
Highly customizable routing preferences
Detailed route reports for performance analysis
Limited advanced features
Basic user interface
Slower processing times for very large datasets
Highlights
MyRouteOnline is a route optimization solution designed for businesses of various sizes.
MyRouteOnline stands out from other apps on this list due to its ability to handle large volumes of addresses. Users can import hundreds of addresses from various sources, and the software quickly generates optimized routes. This is particularly useful for businesses with extensive delivery or service requirements.
MyRouteOnline also offers customizable route settings. Managers can set specific parameters, such as maximum route duration or the number of stops per route, to tailor route planning to their business’ needs.
MyRouteOnline is generally straightforward and user-friendly. The platform provides clear instructions and a simple interface.
However, MyRouteOnline lacks advanced features found in other solutions. For example, real-time tracking and dynamic route adjustments are not as robust, which could be a drawback for companies requiring these capabilities.
Reviews
MyRouteOnline has mixed reviews, likely due to the fact the GPS isn’t accurate 100% of the time.
An anonymous iOS user said they found better routes by doing it manually…
“Bad routing” – ⭐
“I entered the start and end addresses and had the app optimize the route based on distance, time, then mix of distance & time. I was able to save 25 miles and 40 minutes of time by manually rearranging the route.”
Chris H. said the routing wasn’t accurate…
⭐⭐
“It’s fine when it works but it crashed a lot on me. And probably about a fourth of the times when it popped google maps open, it didn’t have the correct address – It had an address range, rather than the actual, exact address. Not helpful, especially if I’m supposed to use this while DRIVING a delivery route.”
General Manager Shane P. said it’s hard to learn how to use the program…
A solid route planner ⭐⭐⭐
“There is a serious lack of information on how to use the program. Personally I find the information that is available hard to navigate, all over the place and dysfunctional. The videos that are supposed to help you get started look like they were from the 90’s, very dry content and not overly helpful. Popups that you could enable or disable would be neat. It could guide you along the way when starting to help you get the most out of the software. Or even little hint buttons beside items that explain how to use it and what it actually does.”
Pricing
Free Trial?
7 days
Basic
$24 (pay as you go)
Classic
$49 / mo. OR $59 for pay as you go
Premium
$99 / mo. OR $109 for pay as you go
Professional
$399 (pay as you go)
Business
$799 (pay as you go)
Scoring
Key Features
-
Advanced route optimization
-
Real-time fleet tracking
-
Predictive analytics
-
Customizable routing solutions
-
Detailed compliance reporting for regulatory adherence
Comprehensive compliance reporting
Advanced predictive analytics for future planning
Real-time fleet tracking
High cost
Complex features require extensive training
Limited customization options
Highlights
Omnitracs is a fleet management solution that focuses on route optimization.
A key strength of Omnitracs is its real-time tracking and dynamic routing capabilities. The platform allows managers to monitor their fleets in real-time, providing up-to-the-minute information on vehicle locations and route progress.
If conditions change, such as unexpected traffic jams or road closures, Omnitracs can dynamically adjust routes to keep operations running smoothly.
Omnitracs also integrates with many other fleet management tools. This integration includes features such as driver behavior monitoring, compliance management, and maintenance scheduling.
However, Omnitracs has a steep learning curve for new users, so companies will need to invest significant time and resources in training. Additionally, Omnitracs is more suited for larger enterprises rather than smaller businesses.
Lastly, Omnitracs has the highest up-front cost of any software on this list. Proponents argue that the software’s comprehensive nature justifies the cost, but it’s still prohibitive for smaller companies with limited budgets.
Reviews
Omnitracs reviews range from mixed to poor. While the software is comprehensive, many users find it hard to justify the cost.
This anonymous iOS user said there was no at-a-glance view of their fleet…
“Great until last update.” ⭐⭐
“When the app was last updated it changed the overview/ workers screen to where I can’t see the drivers unless I tap on each one. It’s very frustrating and cumbersome. I just found out that it doesn’t work well with dark mode, I switched dark mode off and it is fine. Please address this in next update.”
Android user Kenneth M. said the app wasn’t working for him as of July 2024…
⭐
“It was fine, but since the last update hasn’t worked. Authentication failed every time.”
Risk Manager Kathy K. said their customer support is poor…
⭐
“The implementation is horrible. They have not gotten our system working yet. Nothing we can do either. I have tried to call Tech. Support and they say that the sales team has to implement. Sales team has ignored all of our requests for help. It’s been three months and we still have not working HOS system and no one cares.”
Pricing
Free Trial?
No Free Trial available
Software Cost
$5,000 one-time payment
Scoring
Key Features
-
Multi-stop route optimization
-
Real-time traffic updates
-
Customizable route planning
-
Import/export data functionality
-
Route scheduling flexibility
User-friendly interface
Real-time traffic updates for routing efficiency
Flexible route scheduling
Limited advanced reporting tools
Basic integration options
No built-in inventory management
Highlights
RoadWarrior is a route optimization tool designed for businesses that need efficient route planning. It has a straightforward interface that allows users to quickly input multiple stops and generate optimized routes.
Whether it’s for deliveries, service calls, or field operations, RoadWarrior can accommodate different routing needs. It offers customization options, such as setting priority stops and time windows.
However, RoadWarrior lacks some advanced features found in more comprehensive fleet management systems. For instance, it does not offer robust integration with other business tools, which might be a drawback for companies looking for a more all-in-one solution.
RoadWarrior is best suited for small to medium-sized operations. Larger enterprises with complex routing needs might find the platform limited in its handling of extensive datasets and its ability to provide detailed analytics.
Reviews
RoadWarrior has thousands of positive reviews online. However, many users have voiced complaints about inaccuracy when routing.
In June 2024, an anonymous iOS user said the app consistently took them to the wrong location…
Daily incorrect destination ⭐
“After months of trying to bear with the app, I can no longer deal with the constant incorrect destinations it is taking me too… For the past two weeks, on the daily, Road Warrior will send the wrong destination to Google Maps—usually in an empty field. I have to back out and put the address in Google Maps to get to my correct destination for delivery. If this is not fixed soon me and my team of drivers will have to cancel our accounts cause there’s no need to pay to get to the wrong destination.”
In the same month, Android user Lois M. also said the directions are finicky…
⭐⭐
“App works well sometimes. Other times, I’m looking for an address and then it says I’m in a school zone and the address goes away. Then today the app said it needed to update, but there weren’t any update options and payment is not due. So, it’s not allowing me to Optimize my route today. Tried emails and not getting a response.”
On Capterra, CEO John C. said the limited optimization options were cumbersome for his business…
Misleading Sales Info ⭐⭐
“Once you enter your stops you can only optimize a certain number of times. Make a change and you use more of your optimization allowance and before you know it you can’t optimize any longer and the software becomes useless. Contacted support for a refund and they put the blame on me for misleading/confusing sale information. Canceled the monthly subscription after a few hours of trying to learn the app. Would not recommend using this app unless you have 10 or fewer stops.”
Pricing
Free Trial?
No Free Trial available
Flex
$14.99 / mo. per team member
Final Thoughts
Choosing the right route optimization software can transform your construction company’s efficiency and productivity. Each of the solutions highlighted offers unique features and benefits tailored to different industries.
Workyard stands out with its comprehensive suite of tools designed to streamline construction operations.
From intelligent route optimization and real-time GPS tracking to detailed job scheduling and automatic timesheets, Workyard provides a robust platform to enhance your daily workflow.
Its user-friendly interface and powerful reporting tools make it an ideal choice for construction companies aiming to boost efficiency and reduce costs.
Ready to experience how Workyard can optimize your route planning?
Sign up for a free trial today and see how Workyard can help you manage your routes, optimize your fleet, and drive your business forward.
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!