Biometric Time and Attendance Software

The time and attendance system has come a long way since its conception in the late 19th Century. The simple mechanical device built by Willard Bundy and enhanced by Daniel M Cooper is a far cry from the advanced hi-tech time and attendance software in use today. Although some companies may still use the old mechanical devices, most companies are opting for sophisticated software programs. One common system in use today is the swipe card system. Each employee is issued with his personal card and simple swipes it across the sensor upon arrival and departure from work.

Biometric time and attendance software is the latest in the long line of time and attendance programs. Biometrics is the process by which an electronic device recognises a person’s unique physical trait thus confirming their identity. This physical trait can be the scanning of a handprint, fingerprint or even the scanning of a person’s iris.

There are certain advantages and disadvantages to using biometric time and attendance software. The first major benefit is that the biometric system negates the use of extensive paper work. As soon as an employee is registered on the system, it is possible to view all his key details at the click of a button. Whether you want to view an ID number, working schedule, hourly wage, overtime worked, national insurance number or any other important piece of information; you can do so without having to resort to filing systems. All this information will be stored on the software and can be viewed by the manager when he requires it. This system also allows the manager to view the time management of employees. By viewing the data, you can establish which employees regularly arrive late or leave before they are scheduled to do so. Once the information is available, the manager can take any necessary steps to rectify the situation and ensure productivity levels are improved.

Another advantage the biometric system has over swipe card system its foolproof value. Firstly, there is no danger of an employee losing a card and requiring a new one. It is very unlikely an employee will lose his finger, hand or eye! Secondly this system prevents a colleague swiping a co-worker and cheating the system.

There are a couple of small disadvantages to biometric software. There is no guarantee that the system will compensate for dirty or stained fingers. For companies that include manual labour, this may be problematic as dirty or damaged fingers may not be recognised. Another disadvantage is the cost of the whole system. Biometric software is generally more expensive to purchase and install.

Please call us on 0844 879 3748 or email one of our Time and Attendance experts at shop@amano-tcs.co.uk