"My customers took to it really easy and they actually use it. Most of them are impressed with the leadership our organization is showing by using the system. It has made a big difference in how our customers view us."

- Travis Browne
Founder
Foundation K9

Going for a Test Drive: Criteria for Evaluating Free Time Tracking Software

Time management in business means more than just shuffling between the task list on Outlook and your pile of sticky note to dos on your desk. Time management in business is more about managing the time of your employees who's doing what, when, how long and using that information to make better business decisions.

Despite being vital to the success of a business, many business owners and supervisors regularly report problems with their employees and the management of their time. A savvy manager, owner or supervisor will recognize this challenge as an opportunity to compare time tracking tools, starting with looking into free time tracking software.

Many complimentary time tracking software offers are actually fully functional demos of a larger product line, allowing you to get a taste of how the time tracking software can help your business. The best starter programs will give you access to many other business essentials, such as project management, online collaboration, document sharing and more.

Looking for project management software and other resources?

Criteria for choosing free time tracking software:

Before you sign up for the first time tracking program that you find in an internet search, take some time to write down the features that you seek. Rank the features according to your priorities, and when you come across software offers, add the characteristics to the chart. Also, be sure to note if the features you're looking for are included in the offer or if they require an upgrade or extra charge. Doing your homework this way will ensure your free time tracking software choice will be the best decision for your organization.

1. Does the software offer web-based time tracking to allow employees at multiple locations to enter their hours?
2. Does the software offer project management tools such as outlining of important project milestones, also commonly referred to as project deadlines.
3. Does the system have a dashboard for an at-a-glance review of the status of projects?
4. Does the software allow communication among people on a project?
5. Does the software also allow document collaboration and file sharing?
6. Does the software offer free technology upgrades as computers change, or are you locked into one version you'll have to pay to upgrade?

Once you have searched and developed your chart of important features, narrow your software options down to one or two for an official test drive. Then sign up for the software that will work best for your organization, and try it out on one or two projects. Since you've done your research and you're giving the program a test drive, you'll have no trouble proving you found the best free time tracking software for your organization.