In order to track the activities and workflow of their employees, many companies are now trying to implement employee-tracking software. While it may seem like an easy thing to do, actually using such a system in practice can be quite complex. The implementation of such software can benefit your company greatly, but it can also open up some pitfalls. Here’s what you need to know.
What is Employee Tracking?
In simple terms, employee tracking refers to various methods that allow employers to track, observe as well as collect data about the location and activities of their employees. With the help of technology, several aspects of the behavior of the employees can be tracked. These include their computer activities, email, and internet usage, and with GPS tracking, their physical location can be tracked as well.
The reason behind this information being gathered is to ensure that the company resources are being put to proper use. It is also great when it comes to analyzing work patterns which can help with the growth of the company.
Benefits of Employee Tracking Software
Now that we have an understanding of what employee tracking actually means, let’s start off with getting to know the good stuff. While there are even more benefits, we will list some of the more general and important ones here.
Improved Efficiency
With the help of employee tracking it is easier to understand and point out the areas where the employees are the best. This information is so valuable to employers because it lets them assign tasks in a more effective manner which results in a more optimized workflow. Employees also benefit by learning their individual responsibilities and roles better.
Improved Security
Security threats are all kept in check through employee tracking since it also monitors the data of the company. This includes keeping track of unusual use of information or access which can lead to a breach in security. Employees benefit from this as well since it provides a working environment that is secure and ensures their professional and personal data are both safe. Try reliable field employee tracking software like Controlio. The tool offers proper security to employees’ data.
Promotes Equality and Fairness
Employee tracking can also be used to keep track of team performance which results in an evaluation process that is fairer. The system can be used to identify employees who performed better than most so they are not overlooked. It can also be used to highlight areas that need more improvement. This also allows employees to get rewards and recognition based on their performance and not just through the opinions of others.
The Potential Pitfalls
There is always the other side of the coin that we need to talk about. Here are some of the potential pitfalls of employee tracking software that you should be aware of.
Concerns to Privacy
The implementation of tracking software can lead employees to worry about the invasion of their privacy. Employees and staff may worry about their online footprints being tracked which they would prefer to be kept private. The feeling of being under constant surveillance can promote feelings of distrust among the employees. Some of the states have their own rules and regulations to monitor employees. You have to follow the rules strictly.
Ethical and Legal Challenges
It is important to remember that excessive tracking can also have legal consequences if it violates the privacy rights of the employees. There is a thin ethical line that separates personal boundaries and professional oversight. It is important to not cross the boundary.
Conclusion
Employee tracking software is quite useful to monitor the activities of remote employees and ensure an efficient workflow. It allows employers to maintain a secure work environment while giving effective feedback to the employees. There are pros and cons to this that employers need to be aware of before implementing it.