Clock-in/Clock-out Times in Project Management – Definition and Meaning
Clock-in/clock-out times are the exact times at which employees start (clock in) and finish (clock out) their work, often including break times. They are used to precisely track and document actual presence at the workplace and the resulting net working hours. The recording of these times is typically done via electronic time tracking systems (e.g., time clocks, software logins) and often serves as the basis for payroll as well as to verify compliance with working time regulations.
Example, best practice, and further information on the term
In a call center, for example, the recorded times might show that an employee was present from 08:58 to 17:03 and took a 30-minute lunch break. A proven best practice is to ensure precise and reliable recording of these times while complying with data protection regulations. Although recorded working hours are not directly part of project management according to PMBOK, they are relevant for resource management and agile capacity planning as they affect the actual availability of employees. Their primary use is for payroll and ensuring compliance with labor law requirements.