Timekeeping & Scheduling Software
Part of People, Labor, and Workforce
Why Time Tracking Matters
Labor is typically 10-15% of dairy production costs. Accurate time tracking ensures workers are paid correctly, helps manage overtime, and provides data for labor cost analysis. Modern software replaces paper timesheets with digital systems that reduce errors and save management time.
Key Features for Dairy Operations
Time Tracking
- Mobile clock-in: Workers can clock in from phones, useful for large farms
- Time clocks: Physical devices at barn entrances or parlors
- GPS verification: Confirm workers are on-site when clocking in
- Break tracking: Ensure required breaks are taken
- Overtime alerts: Notify managers when workers approach overtime thresholds
Scheduling
- Shift templates: Standard schedules that repeat weekly
- Coverage views: See who's scheduled for each area/shift
- Shift swapping: Workers can trade shifts with manager approval
- Availability tracking: Record when workers can and cannot work
- Notification: Alert workers to schedule changes via text or app
Integration Benefits
Time tracking software that integrates with payroll systems eliminates duplicate data entry and reduces errors. Integration with herd management software can help analyze labor efficiency by task or area.
Software Options
Standalone Time/Scheduling
Products like Deputy, When I Work, or TSheets (now QuickBooks Time) focus on time and scheduling with payroll exports.
Integrated HR/Payroll
Full HR platforms like Gusto, ADP, or Paychex include time tracking and scheduling features.
Farm-Specific Solutions
Some herd management or farm ERP systems include labor tracking modules designed for agriculture.
Do You Need Time Tracking Software?
Consider software if:
- You have 5+ employees and paper systems are error-prone
- Scheduling changes frequently or is complex
- You want visibility into labor costs by task or area
- Overtime management is challenging
- You need audit trails for H-2A or other compliance
Cost Considerations
Basic time tracking apps cost $3-8 per employee monthly. Full scheduling and time platforms run $5-12 per employee monthly. Time clock hardware adds $200-500 per device. Consider total cost including implementation and training time.