Move to Web-based solutions

Growth-minded small businesses that want to eliminate the need for any on-site technology are tapping into Web-based time and attendance solutions.

I recommend: Kronos is one of the best known names in workforce management products for every size business, including a popular web-based  time and attendance system called Workforce Timekeeper. Timekeeper automates the error-prone process of tacking employee time and attendance. And if you have complex pay policies, the system can make payroll calculations a snap.  WorkArea.com also has a line of time tracking tools. Its Time Clock feature, for example, lets you track time for any combination of clients, projects or tasks, replacing inaccurate and easily-manipulated paper methods. TimeLedger is another Web-based time tracker favored by small biz. Create online timesheets, download the information anytime, integrate with QuickBooks and receive customizable e-mail alerts.

Install or upgrade an on-site system

With high-tech time and attendance solutions you can easily and accurately collect data on hours worked, track vacation time, sick time and flex time - even break time - and integrate the info with whatever payroll method you use.

I recommend: Lathem Time Corp. is a leading provider of time and attendance products for small business. PayClock EZ, their top selling automated timekeeping system, integrates easily with QuickBooks and popular finance and payroll services including ADP and Paychex.

Pop it on your desktop PC

PC-based systems let you track everything from a desktop computer at your place of business.

I recommend: Time Clock Plus Small Business Edition lets employees clock in or out from a designated PC using an on-screen time clock. All reports can be managed from the same PC using the system's TimeClock Manager.

Contrast & compare prices, features and shopping tips

Hundreds of vendors compete to offer time and attendance products designed specifically for small business.

I recommend: BuyerZone is a great place to comparison shop for time and attendance systems and software. And here's a great bonus: The site also has super-helpful buyers guides that explain the basics of how these systems work and what to look for in an electronic time clock vendor.

Dedicated solutions just for professional services firms

Some time and attendance systems available online are geared to specific types of businesses.

I recommend: Timesolv, from Thomson Elite, is a Web-based solution offering professional services (attorneys, CPAs, medical practices, etc.) firms an easy way to handle time-tracking and billing without having to buy software or hire an outside billing service.

Same-day solution online

Need something right now! Some online systems can get you up and running today!

I recommend: TimeDirect is an online timesheet and expense reporting service. You can be up and running on the system in hours.