Time tracking solutions are powerful tools for improving productivity and promoting work-life balance. In fact, 43% of employees say time tracking solutions give them insight into when they work too much, and 53% see it as crucial for organising and planning their work. However, it’s not without its challenges - 28% of employees report that time tracking causes stress.

Time tracking solutions have traditionally been viewed as tools that benefit employers by ensuring efficiency and compliance. However, as work-life balance becomes a growing priority, it’s clear that time tracking solutions also hold significant potential for supporting employee well-being.

Choosing the right Time & Attendance software is a critical decision that impacts not just workforce management, but also compliance, integration, and employee satisfaction. With 28% of companies prioritising solutions that align with changing legislation, 26% focusing on security and access control, and 25% valuing seamless integration with other systems such as payroll, it’s clear that functionality is key. Additionally, modern workforce management solutions must address growing complexities like data security, legal compliance, and self-service capabilities for employees.

Time & Attendance software can be a real strategic asset for businesses aiming to optimise workforce operations and scale efficiently. With over 70% of companies with more than 2,500 employees adopting personnel planning systems, larger organisations clearly recognise the value of smart scheduling solutions. However, adoption rates drop to 52% among smaller businesses, underscoring the opportunity for growth.

Optimising time registration and staff scheduling is a key challenge for employers, with 34% identifying time utilisation and output as their top priority. However, the second biggest concern (chosen by 33%) is improving employee confidence and reducing the perception that time tracking systems are overly controlling.

Time management isn’t just about tracking hours - it’s a strategic tool that can drive workforce productivity, compliance, and employee well-being. According to our research, 75% of employees are required to record their working hours, and for good reason - employers using time tracking and scheduling systems report an average time saving of 30%, streamlining processes and supporting both business and workforce needs.

While offering flexible working options is a step in the right direction, organisations often fall short of aligning flexible policies with employee expectations. Our research highlights a significant gap: while 62% of employees prefer a flexible daily schedule, only 43% currently have access to one. Similarly, 60% of employees value flexible work rosters, yet only 43% are able to benefit from them.

Flexibility is no longer just a perk - it’s an expectation. Across Europe, our research reveals that flexible working hours and extra days off rank as the second and third most-preferred employee benefits, following salary as the top priority. However, only 50% of employees report being satisfied with their current work-life balance.

In a rapidly evolving HR landscape, the role of Artificial Intelligence (AI) has become a focal point for organizations navigating complex issues like talent shortages, employee engagement, and workforce adaptability. At our recent HR Leaders Lab in Paris, SD Worx’s Chief Strategy Officer Michael Custers and our HR Evangelist Jan Laurijssen led an insightful roundtable exploring how HR leaders can harness AI to address these critical challenges.

Discover actionable strategies for balancing employee wellbeing, compliance, and workforce productivity in our comprehensive Time Navigator eBook. 

Flexibility is no longer just a perk -  it’s a necessity for attracting and retaining top talent. Our latest infographic highlights key trends shaping time management across Europe, revealing how businesses are adapting to employee expectations with smarter, more effective strategies.