Why Every Project Manager Should Use a Time Tracking Tool

I think it goes without saying that time is a valuable commodity. Which is why having a sense of how teams are utilizing it in a project is the key to completing them in timely manner. Good news is, now tons of apps are available that companies can use to track and manage time.

But, before you go ahead and subscribe to a time tracking application, take a look at what all these apps have to offer -

Better sense of time-consuming tasks 

A project is divided into bunch of tasks and subtasks. Some are more time consuming than others. But, it’s not necessary that a time consuming task will make a positive impact on the project. Because, it’s not about much time you spend; it’s about what work you’re doing. Perhaps you are wasting time on stuff that shouldn't be done in the Why every project manager should use a time tracking tool first place. Time tracking software discerns that for you. It helps you figure out which tasks are taking how much and whether or not spending that much time on them is justified. Based on that observation you can tweak your efforts.

Use the records to bill clients 

Most of the time, clients need records of every single hour you’re spending on the project. They want to know how you distribute your workflow. You can show them that by presenting timesheets. Because, after all your time is what the client is paying you for. In addition to that, if you can convince your client that the money they are investing is not going in vain, their likelihood of sticking with you will increase. So, it’s only fitting that you get a time tracking tool if you don’t have one already.

Get a better sense of productivity leakages

After using a project tracking software for some time, people start getting a sense of their productivity levels. In the absence of this tool, it’s easy to ignore those little leakages that happen throughout the project. Time tracking tools paint an accurate and clear picture of how you are spending your time. So, instead of ignoring how time gets wasted in little things, you become more mindful of it. You will have better awareness of whether you are using time optimally or is there any scope for increasing productivity.

Use time sheets for preparing reports

From time to time, managers prepare reports to monitor whether things are going according to plan. It helps them analyze deviations from the plan. With time sheets at their disposal, managers can make their job of crunching numbers to prepare reports lot easier. So, report preparation is another aspect where time tracking software come handy.

If you have made-up your mind to buy a time tracking tool, be sure to pick one that gives you the option to track time manually as well as using a timer.

If you are already using one, share your experience with us!