As the workforce becomes increasingly mobile, more and more employers are turning to apps for tracking employee location. While the benefits of location tracking can be significant, there are also risks involved. In this article, we’ll explore the benefits and risks of using an app for tracking employee location, and provide tips on how to do it responsibly.

Benefits of Using an App for Tracking Employee Location

There are several benefits to using an app for tracking employee location, including:

Improved Safety and Security: For employees who work in remote or high-risk environments, location tracking can provide an added layer of safety and security. Employers can quickly locate employees in case of an emergency, and ensure that they are not in danger.

Enhanced Productivity: Location tracking can help employers monitor employee productivity and identify areas for improvement. Employers can use location data to determine how long employees spend on specific tasks or projects, and identify potential bottlenecks or inefficiencies.

Better Time Management: With location tracking, employers can ensure that employees are on schedule and on time for appointments and meetings. This can help reduce wasted time and improve overall productivity.

Efficient Resource Allocation: Location tracking can help employers optimize the use of resources, such as vehicles or equipment. By tracking the location of these resources, employers can ensure that they are being used efficiently and effectively.

Risks of Using an App for Tracking Employee Location

While there are benefits to using an app for tracking employee location, there are also risks involved, including:

Invasion of Privacy: Employees may view location tracking as an invasion of their privacy. They may feel uncomfortable with the idea of their employer tracking their every move, even if it is for work purposes.

Data Security Risks: Location tracking data can be sensitive and confidential. Employers need to ensure that this data is stored securely and that access to it is restricted to authorized personnel only.

Legal Risks: Depending on where your business is located, there may be legal risks associated with tracking employee location. Employers need to ensure that they are complying with all relevant laws and regulations.

Trust Issues: If employees feel that their employer does not trust them, this can lead to a breakdown in the employer-employee relationship. This can have a negative impact on morale, productivity, and retention.

Tips for Using an App for Tracking Employee Location Responsibly

If you decide to use an app for tracking employee location, here are some tips for doing it responsibly:

Communicate with Employees: It is important to communicate with employees about why you are using location tracking and how it will benefit them. Be transparent about what data is being collected and how it will be used.

Obtain Consent: Employees should be given the opportunity to opt-in to location tracking. This can help mitigate privacy concerns and ensure that employees feel comfortable with the idea of being tracked.

Protect Data: Location tracking data should be stored securely and access should be restricted to authorized personnel only. This can help prevent data breaches and ensure that employee data is protected.

Comply with Laws and Regulations: Make sure that you are complying with all relevant laws and regulations related to location tracking. This can help prevent legal issues down the road.

Use Data Responsibly: Location tracking data should be used only for work-related purposes. Employers should avoid using this data for any other purposes, such as monitoring employee behavior outside of work.

Top Apps for Tracking Employee Location

If you decide to use an app for tracking employee location, here are some top options to consider:

TSheets: TSheets is a time tracking app that offers GPS tracking. It also allows employers to set up geofencing, which can trigger alerts when employees enter or leave designated areas. TSheets also has a feature that allows employees to clock in and out from their mobile devices.

Hubstaff: Hubstaff offers time tracking, GPS tracking, and geofencing. It also has a feature that takes random screenshots of employees’ screens, which can help ensure that employees are staying on task.

TimeCamp: TimeCamp is a time tracking app that offers GPS tracking as well. It also allows employers to set up geofencing, and offers reporting features that can help employers identify potential areas for improvement.

Timesheet Mobile: Timesheet Mobile is a time tracking app that offers GPS tracking, geofencing, and real-time location sharing. It also has a feature that allows employees to clock in and out from their mobile devices.

Xora: Xora is a mobile workforce management app that offers GPS tracking, time tracking, and job tracking. It also has a feature that allows employers to set up geofencing, and offers reporting features that can help employers identify potential areas for improvement.

FAQs

Is it legal to track employee location?

In most cases, it is legal to track employee location as long as you obtain consent and comply with all relevant laws and regulations. However, the laws surrounding location tracking can vary depending on where your business is located, so it is important to consult with a legal professional before implementing location tracking.

Can employees opt out of location tracking?

Yes, employees should be given the opportunity to opt out of location tracking if they wish to do so. Employers should also be transparent about what data is being collected and how it will be used.

How can employers ensure that location tracking data is secure?

Employers should store location tracking data securely and restrict access to authorized personnel only. They should also ensure that data is encrypted and protected from unauthorized access or data breaches.

What should employers do if an employee objects to location tracking?

If an employee objects to location tracking, employers should discuss their concerns with the employee and try to find a solution that works for both parties. This may involve offering alternative solutions, such as allowing the employee to check in with a supervisor instead of using location tracking.

Conclusion

In conclusion, using an app for tracking employee location can offer several benefits, including improved safety and security, enhanced productivity, better time management, and efficient resource allocation. However, there are also risks involved, such as invasion of privacy, data security risks, legal risks, and trust issues. If you decide to use an app for tracking employee location, it is important to do so responsibly, by communicating with employees, obtaining consent, protecting data, complying with laws and regulations, and using data responsibly. By following these guidelines, employers can use location tracking to improve their businesses while also respecting the privacy and autonomy of their employees.