Overview
Geofence Autopunch is an automated time tracking feature that uses GPS location services to automatically clock employees in and out when they enter or exit predefined geographic boundaries (geofences) around job sites. This eliminates the need for manual time punching and provides location verification for field-based workers.
How It Works
Geofence Setup
- Create virtual boundaries around job sites by entering an address
- Set the radius (typically 50-500 meters)
- Customize the center point and adjust the geofence area as needed
- Assign employees to specific geofenced locations
Automatic Time Tracking
- Employee's phone detects entry into geofenced area during scheduled hours
- System automatically punches employee in
- When employee exits geofence, system automatically punches them out
- All entries include GPS coordinates and timestamp
Key Features
Punch Prompt® Technology
- Sends notification when employee arrives at job site
- Reminds forgetful employees to confirm clock-in
- Prevents "forgot to punch in" scenarios
- Saves administrator time fixing timesheets
Violation Alerts
- Manager receives email when employee punches in/out outside geofenced area
- Colored globe icon indicates whether employee was on-site or off-site
- Real-time notifications of geofence violations
- Distance tracking shows how far employee was from site
Anti-Fraud Features
- Block employees from punching in if not at job site
- Auto punch-out if location services are turned off
- Notify managers if employee turns phone off to avoid detection
- Continuous monitoring during shift to detect site departure
Scheduled Autopunch
- Employees automatically punched in/out as they enter/exit sites during scheduled hours
- Works only during expected shift times
- Prevents accidental punches outside work hours
Benefits
Eliminates Time Theft: Ensures employees are actually at the job site when clocked in
Saves Administrative Time: No more fixing forgotten or incorrect punches
Improves Accuracy: GPS verification provides proof of location
Increases Accountability: Employees know their location is being tracked
Reduces Disputes: Timestamp and GPS data provide clear evidence
Use Cases
Construction
- Multiple job sites with different crews
- Verify workers are at correct site
- Track time spent at each phase of project
Field Service
- Service technicians at customer locations
- HVAC, plumbing, electrical contractors
- Maintenance and repair services
Healthcare
- Home health aides visiting patients
- Verify arrival and departure from patient homes
- Track travel time between visits
Landscaping
- Crews working at different properties
- Track time per client location
- Monitor equipment usage at sites
Delivery & Transportation
- Drivers at pickup/delivery locations
- Warehouse loading/unloading time
- Distribution center operations
Technical Requirements
Mobile Device: Smartphone with GPS capability
Location Services: Must be enabled on employee device
Mobile Data or WiFi: For real-time sync (offline capability available)
Battery Considerations: Geofencing uses minimal battery (less than continuous GPS tracking)
Privacy Considerations
- Location tracking only during work hours
- Employees typically must consent to location monitoring
- Data used solely for time tracking, not surveillance
- Many systems allow employees to turn off tracking outside scheduled shifts
Accuracy Factors
GPS Accuracy: Typically 5-15 meters under good conditions
Urban Canyons: Tall buildings can affect GPS accuracy
Indoor Locations: GPS may be less accurate inside buildings
Weather: Heavy cloud cover or storms can impact precision
Best Practices
- Set geofence radius appropriate to site size (not too small or large)
- Test geofences before full deployment
- Train employees on location service requirements
- Have backup manual punch option for GPS failures
- Regular review of geofence violations to identify issues
- Clearly communicate location tracking policy to employees
Popular Solutions
- Timesheet Mobile Geofence Autopunch
- ClockShark Geofence Time Tracking
- Hubstaff Geofence Time Tracking
- TSheets GPS Geofencing
- Workyard Geofencing
- Buddy Punch Geofencing
Compliance
- May require employee consent in some jurisdictions
- Must comply with local labor laws regarding location tracking
- GDPR considerations for European operations
- Clear privacy policy documentation recommended
