Glossary · Location
Geofence time clock
A geofence time clock is a time tracking method that uses a virtual boundary drawn around a work location to record when a worker is inside it. Presence is read from the location of a phone or a badge, so no one has to walk up to a physical clock.
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How does a geofence time clock work?
A geofence time clock works by comparing each location reading from a device to a polygon or circle on a map. The boundary is drawn in software from an address, and nothing is installed at the jobsite. When a reading falls inside the boundary, the worker is counted as on site for that moment.
- 1
Draw the boundary
An office user sets the geofence around the site, sized to the real property line, a fence or a laydown yard.
- 2
Read the location
The device reports a position on a schedule. Outdoors the reading is usually satellite based; indoors it may come from Wi-Fi.
- 3
Compare and record
Each reading is checked against the boundary. Crossing in or out is logged with the time and the method used.
What does a geofence time clock look like in a normal day?
One electrician, two jobsites and a supply house
- 6:30 AMEnters the geofence at Jobsite A. On-site time starts.
- 11:15 AMLeaves for a supply house. The exit and the drive are recorded.
- 12:05 PMEnters the geofence at Jobsite B. The shift continues as one shift.
- 2:30 PMLeaves Jobsite B. On-site time ends for the day.
The same worker never has to open an app or find a clock. The location record does the clocking, and a manager reviews and approves the result.
Frequently asked questions
How accurate is a geofence time clock?
Does a geofence time clock need equipment at the jobsite?
Can a geofence time clock record time between jobsites?
Sources
- 1.GPS.gov, GPS accuracy · U.S. Government, GPS.gov
