Don’t you know Google Timesheet? You should!

Jérôme Chambard
3 min readMay 3, 2024

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Could Google Timesheet be the solution for time tracking of field employee?

It’s no secret that Google offers a wide array of services. But let’s clear the air: “Google Timesheet” isn’t one of them — yet, that doesn’t mean you can’t create one using Google’s resources. Specifically, Google Sheets presents a flexible platform that can be used to build numerous small business applications, rivaling even the most expensive market solutions. Automating timesheets is just one powerful example.

The Power of Google Sheets is Underestimated

Google Sheets is often pegged as just another spreadsheet tool, similar to Microsoft Excel, but it’s much more than that. With its in-built functions, extensive add-on library, and the ability to integrate with other applications via scripts and APIs, Google Sheets can be transformed into a dynamic tool for business management.

Businesses can use Sheets not just for data storage, but for complex calculations, data analysis, and real-time collaboration. When it comes to creating a “Google Timesheet”, Google Sheets allows for real-time data updates, which are essential for accurate time tracking and payroll processing. Users can easily set up automatic date and time stamps, calculate hours worked, and even integrate with other systems to pull in or push out data as needed. It can even display the geolocation of the user on Google Maps or store pictures in a cell.

Using Ubiqod to Send Data to Google Sheets

Ubiqod by Skiply is a simple tool that can significantly amplify the capabilities of Google Sheets by automating data entry. This application uses QR codes and mobile technology to send information directly to a Google Sheets document, making it perfect for logging time on a DIY timesheet.

For instance, employees can scan a QR code when arriving at or leaving work, and the scanned data — date, time, employee ID — gets automatically pushed to a designated Google Sheet. This process minimizes errors and saves time by eliminating manual entries.

Doing the Same with Microsoft Excel

While Google Sheets is versatile, it’s important to recognize that Microsoft Excel also offers similar functionalities, especially with its newer cloud-based iteration. Excel can integrate with Microsoft Power Automate and Ubiqod to create automated workflows similar to what’s possible with Google Sheets and Ubiqod.

The process involves setting up an Excel template on OneDrive or SharePoint, using forms for data entry, and automating data processing with Power Automate. This setup can handle timesheet automation by tracking entry and exit times, calculating total hours, and even sending data to payroll systems.

Both platforms offer robust solutions for automating routine tasks like timesheets, but the choice between Google Sheets and Microsoft Excel might come down to user preference, existing subscriptions, and specific business needs, especially when one of the solution is pushed by the IT departement.

Conclusion

While Google does not officially offer a “Google Timesheet” service, the flexibility of Google Sheets — and indeed, Microsoft Excel — means that anyone can create a customized, automated timesheet system with a bit of creativity and the right tools. Whether through Google Sheets aided by innovative applications like Ubiqod, or through Microsoft Excel with its powerful automation capabilities, these platforms enable businesses to streamline operations without investing in expensive specialized software. So, don’t overlook these versatile tools — they might just be what your business needs to improve efficiency and accuracy in time tracking.

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Jérôme Chambard

Skiply's founder here: revolutionizing field activity with Ubiqod for seamless timesheet management and real-world automation.