Today, various information gathering applications that are very similar in their functionality – such as spies, stalker programs, and time trackers – are under one operational umbrella. This can't help but alarm people, because such surveillance causes a certain sense of danger.
But in reality, there is a big difference between them. And if you understand these differences, you can not only avoid unnecessary stress and fears, but also achieve great results with the help of new tools.
3 main differences between time trackers and “spies”
Human consent
Spyware programs are usually installed on your computer without your knowledge. Whereas time tracker installation is possible only after user approval. Moreover, when time trackers are installed in companies, the management must first prepare employees for monitoring working hours both technically and morally.
Useful features
Quite often, people install time trackers separately for themselves, for example, if they are freelancers. With the help of such software, they can better manage their time, plan tasks, see what they are distracted by while working, and minimize the use of time eaters. At the same time no one will voluntarily install spyware on their computer.
The purpose of monitoring
Espionage is the hidden observation of user activities and the collection of confidential information for personal use. Time tracking is activity monitoring that protects company data, increases employee efficiency, and improves reporting transparency by enabling employees to view their results independently.
Functional differences
What data can be collected by spyware:
- Recording phone calls
- Microphone and camera tracking
- Location tracking
- Listening to conversations
- Stealing bank details
- Access to social networks
- Screenshots of messengers and mail
- Registration of keystrokes.
A time tracker is needed to record working hours and increase employee productivity. It includes:
- Fixing the beginning and end of the working day
- List of resources used
- Recording time off, days off, sick leave
- Task and project management
- Invoicing clients.
- Calculation of salary and formation of a report card
- Recording the time of meetings, conferences, and breaks
- Reporting on the results of the day.
Remember that a time tracker can actually be useful, especially if you choose a good and reliable tool. One of them is Yaware.TimeTracker.
Yaware.TimeTracker is a simple and flexible productivity monitoring tool that allows you to keep track of time with minimal interference in the employee's personal space.
With its help, you will be able to see both the strengths and weaknesses of your employees' work and, if necessary, be able to help them in time. This approach will allow you to move faster towards your goals, as the productivity and efficiency of your team will increase significantly!