Challenges

• eUS did not use a formal time tracking process, either written or electronic, before evaluating Web TimeSheet. This created concerns about resistance to a new system.
• Billable time for clients was recorded as it occurred, leaving non-billable hours unaccounted for.
• Productivity and efficiency of individual staff members was extremely hard to estimate due to the fact that non-billable work, however important, was not recorded.
• A client server solution was unworkable, as employees often work remotely.

Solutions

• Web TimeSheet's intuitive interface and easy implementation made for a completely painless adoption.
• Projects, clients, and types of work are very flexible through Web TimeSheet, meaning that employees can list internal or non-billable easily alongside client work.
• Web TimeSheet creates an immediate picture of productivity for employees and their managers. Clear, customizable reports analyze information vital to the sustenance of a consulting business.
• Web TimeSheet provides global access wherever there's an Internet connection, keeping off-site employees in the loop.

Easy Evaluation, Easy Adopting
eUS compared Web TimeSheet to other time-tracking applications, but found that competitors came up short. "One of the two applications didn't adapt at all to a small company, and the other was underdeveloped as a software solution and couldn't fulfill our needs," says Lewellyn. Web TimeSheet's polished, scalable product compared favorably.

"Our implementation process took a couple of days," says Lewellyn, "but that's only because we waited for an upcoming upgrade on purpose to make sure the interface would remain consistent. The actual set-up took under four hours." eUS started with basic customized project and client listings, and is gradually introducing features and updates in reaction to feedback from employees.

Before Web TimeSheet, the staff at eUs had not been accountable to a structured time-recording process. Potential opposition to the introduction of Web TimeSheet was of concern to management, and they were very anxious to ensure the system they chose wouldn't impede the adoption of a new process. "And that's been a pleasant surprise," says Lewellyn. "Web TimeSheet is so easy and self-explanatory that the process went very, very smoothly". eUS employees didn't require any formal training with Web TimeSheet. The software was introduced during a 15 minute meeting, and afterward, the users simply incorporated time-entry into their work schedules. "The program has performed well, and individuals have been outspoken and complimentary about the solution. It's been very well received."

Beginning to see the Benefits
"Though it's too early in our adoption process to quantify financial returns from Web TimeSheet," says Lewellyn, "in the short time we've been using the product, we have gained substantial insight into the productivity of individual employees, and we have recognized a measurable increase in billable hours."

Web TimeSheet has improved productivity by providing a real-time window into employee efficiency. "It's the report card effect," says Lewellyn. "Everyone is reminded of their own time usage, and employees take responsibility for their own time." While fiscal improvements don't occur overnight, awareness and understanding is immediate.

When asked to describe major benefits of Web TimeSheet, Lewellyn's response is immediate. "Without question, the solid information describing effort and apparent activity. Before Web TimeSheet we didn't have a good impression of a typical day." Web TimeSheet also allows employees to better represent all of their activities, rather than just billable ones. "There's a lot of time invested in supporting a consulting arrangement, things that aren't directly chargeable but are required, and now that's quantified."

"Bringing Web TimeSheet as a product to the organization allowed us to introduce a much more effective time collecting process. I would give an unreserved, strong recommendation to companies with circumstances similar to our own," says Lewellyn.