Why Use an Employee Time Clock, Part III

Time and Attendance Systems: Making the Right Choices

Once you decide a time clock system is right for your business, the fun part begins: picking the perfect setup. Here’s how to get it right without wasting time (or money).

Where Do You Put the Time Clock?

Location matters. You want it convenient for employees but visible enough to discourage shenanigans. Common spots include:

Employee break room – Central, comfortable, and where people already gather.
Next to the manager’s desk – Great for small offices, adds accountability.
Main employee entrance – Catches everyone right as they arrive (or “arrive”).

Pro tip: avoid putting it in a dark corner or behind a vending machine. Nobody wants to hunt for the time clock like it’s a geocache.

One Clock, or Many? (Think Big, Even If You’re Small)

If your building has:

Multiple employee entrances – Put a clock at each one to save walking time.
Large spaces (warehouses, campuses) – Install clocks at key checkpoints.
Remote sites – Networked clocks feed into one central system.

Modern systems make multiple terminals easy. Employees clock wherever they are, and all data syncs automatically. No more “I had to walk a mile!” excuses.

Prepackaged Deals: Buy for Tomorrow, Not Just Today

Even if you have 20 employees or fewer, don’t skimp on capacity. Look for:

Systems prepackaged with 25+ cards/badges – You just might grow!
Expandable software – Add users without buying new everything.
Future-proof features – Like network connectivity or mobile apps.

These deals often save money upfront and give you room to expand without panic-buying later. Think of it as buying a slightly bigger pair of pants—you’ll grow into them.

Why Multiple Clocks Pay Off

In larger facilities, strategic clock placement is a productivity booster:

Saves walking time – Employees clock in/out near their workstation.
Reduces bottlenecks – No lines at a single entrance clock during shift change.
Improves accuracy – Clock right where the work happens.

All clocks link to one central system, so you get unified reports, payroll data, and “Who’s In?” status across the entire operation.

Small Team? Start Smart

For businesses with 5–20 employees:

A single clock in the break room or entry area usually works perfectly.
Choose a system that scales – prepackaged kits with extra cards are ideal.
Network-ready clocks let you add more later without starting over.

Even if growth isn’t on your radar, life happens. A little extra capacity now saves headaches (and expense) later.

The Bottom Line: Plan for Success

Your time clock isn’t just a gadget—it’s infrastructure. Put it where it works best, plan for multiple locations if needed, and buy smart with prepackaged, expandable systems.