Objections to being photographed for ID badges were a rare occurrence just a few years ago. This new age of technology, however, brings more “invasive” forms of identification such as fingerprints, facial recognition, DNA and other biometrics. Employees are more likely to resist trading these forms of personal information for security, employment or other business purposes.
The latest innovation to track employee hours is a biometric fingerprint scanner. Because of its ability to use distinctive attributes to identify employees, this is one attendance solution that is here to stay. Everything related to clocking in and out over the years is simplified in this one system.
Biometric Solution That Automates the Workplace
Years of manually tracking hours each employee works have given way to a powerful new biometric technology that automates the authentication process whenever employees access company property. Whether at corporate headquarters or online from a remote location, a USB fingerprint reader enhances security systems throughout the company.
The expectation of biometric technology for tracking employees’ work time is the elimination of problems typically associated with traditional time clock systems. First, a biometric fingerprint reader captures unique data from each employee’s hand. As the scan completes, a camera takes a picture of the hand. Information captured in the picture determines distinct qualities and is used to identify the employee.
Advantages to using a biometric solution include:
• Information accessed from secure locations is secure
• Flexible scheduling
• Portable installation system
• Elimination of duplication and fraud
• Supervisors can monitor real-time work flow information
• Streamlined login processes
• Implementation of access-control features
Special Features of a Biometric Fingerprint Scanner
By using biometric technology, a fingerprint scanner delivers some important features.
Biometric authentication. A new patented USB fingerprint reader for employee work hours reliably captures biometric data. Company data is more secure as the system is compatible with other technologies used to control access. Fewer incidents of fraud and theft helps to protect physical and monetary assets.
Faster login. An automated login process helps to streamline employee access to resources gathered online. Verification protocols have become too costly, especially when a secure alternative is available.
Automate employee recordkeeping. Installing this portable device introduces seamless automation each time an employee logs into the time and attendance system. The built-in sensor identifies individual employees to assist employers with maintaining accurate records.
Benefits to Using a Biometric Fingerprint Scanner
Biometric systems are valuable safeguards against identity theft. Essentially, this fingerprint scanner protects companies from potential theft of trade secrets and intellectual property in addition to securing employee access to company buildings and remote systems. The threat that someone can pose as an employee to gain access is eliminated because of the required authentication feature. Strangers cannot pose as employees to access different work sites.
In summary, by using technology associated with biometric fingerprint scanners companies:
• Have the ability to authenticate the identity of each employee when he or she attempts to access a remote or local work site
• Will know when an employee accesses company information from a work computer
• Can detect employee identity theft and fraud
• Monitor real-time access
• Automate tracking of employee hours
The workforce will also appreciate the ease and portability of a system that safeguards their identity.
Put Biometric Technology to Work
Biometric technology works diligently for companies of all sizes to improve productivity and reduce administrative costs. Companies increase productivity with this technology because employees can work at any hour of the day or night. They can login remotely and take advantage of flexible work schedules. Employers never lose track of the hours worked because login information is captured immediately for tracking purposes.
Lower administrative costs is inevitable since employees spend less time with conventional time and attendance tracking systems. This technology is also compatible with existing human resources software programs to integrate and automate different processes associated with time management.
Biometric sensors also work well with laptops and mobile devices. Companies maintain their competitive edge as their workforce keeps pace with a mobile society. Compromising company assets never become an issue because of the secure nature of the technology.
Practical Tips Before Installing a Biometric Fingerprint Scanner
The following four tips will help companies feel confident in their decision to install a biometric fingerprint scanner in their work environment.
First, inform all employees that the company intends to use a biometric system to capture their fingerprints. This should be communicated in writing and express the reasons, safeguards and who to speak to with questions or concerns.
Second, the company should verify applicable privacy and employment laws. This should be done for state and federal laws. Third, strict security policies and procedures regarding the biometric scanner should be implemented. This helps to ensure all data collected in the system remains secure and properly stored.
Finally, companies should be prepared to accommodate employees’ requests based on protected classes. These include issues raised regarding religious beliefs and disabilities.
New and creative technologies such as the biometric fingerprint scanner to track employee hours is here to stay. With this innovative way to maintain time and attendance comes new challenges. Companies that approach biometric systems cautiously and wisely can survive smooth transitions.
