FAQ
Here are some frequently asked questions about the eTimeSaver
automated timesheet processing system.
If you have any other questions just ask by contacting
us.
Timesheets
Training
Support
Timesheets
How quickly can the system read timesheets?
As a rule of thumb you can reduce a full day’s manual entry to less
than half an hour. In our experience a form can take anything from 1 to
20 seconds to capture – roughly 5% of the time it would take to
manually enter the data.
The factors which govern this speed include the design of the timesheet
itself, the number of fields and most importantly how the timesheet has
been filled in.
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I’m concerned about getting timesheets
authorised. What other checks and balances can be carried out to improve
speed and accuracy?
With the use of additional scripts or modules (available as optional
extras) the system can perform numerous checks on the data you're processing
which can add additional benefits to the obvious speed increases offered
over manual data entry.
Time checking
Checks that the start and finish times minus breaks do actually add up
to the total time being claimed. This can guard against the worker incorrectly
adding up their hours, or the system incorrectly reading a time on the
sheet.
Data reconciling
If a name or number written on a timesheet exists in a database (e.g.
your job booking database) then checks can be made that staff numbers
or names are accurate against that data. If not the system will tell you
that there is a mismatch. This can guard against time being allocated
to the wrong employee number or assignment code.
Date checking
Checks that a week ending date does fall on the required day (i.e. checks
that 4th May is actually a Friday).
Address validation
Checks against either the GB or QAS electoral and postcode databases to
make sure addresses are legitimate and read correctly.
Bank detail validation
Checks against the Eiger Bank Wizard not only to check the account number
and sort code are valid but also the type of bank account and the branch
address.
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Can the system only read handwriting?
The TeleForm can recognise individual handwritten characters, machine
print, bar codes and tick boxes.
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The basis TeleForm component sounds great.
What else can it be used for?
TeleForm is not just a timesheet processing system. It is also
an extremely powerful forms design and data capture system which allows
you to create and extract data from any sort of structured form. Typical
examples of alternative uses include questionnaires and surveys, application
forms, expense claim forms, in fact any form that is to be filled in by
hand and the results input into a computer system.
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Will we need to change our existing timesheets
to work with yours?
Our system works best with forms designed for automated data
capture. Features such as corner stones are used to help the system orientate
the form properly.
A barcode or form number is used so that the system can identify the form
type and constrained print boxes aid swift recognition.
But we can quite easily accommodate your blueprint within these parameters.
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How many timesheets can I scan in one batch?
The maximum number of timesheets you can physically scan on one
batch is usually limited by the number of pages you can for on your scanner’s
sheet feeder. Typically, a medium volume scanner will allow 50-100 sheets.
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Will it recognise irregular documents?
Yes. Once documents are scanned you can view thumbnail images of
each timesheet and sift out any sheets which do not belong to the form.
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Training
What kind of training is involved?
Although we have a range of courses designed for all aspects of the eTimeSaver
system, we are happy to tailor a course around your particular needs.
Standard one day training will give basic tuition on how to design your
timesheet in the new format, how to scan and verify timesheets, how to
create exports and how to search and retrieve timesheets using eStore.
A second day of training is often beneficial for more advanced form design
and verification at a later date, once you have got to grips with the
basic functionality.
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Can we arrange it at our offices?
Yes, we actually prefer to attend your site to give bespoke training on
your actual system.
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How many people can you accommodate?
As we usually give the training on your site, the maximum
number of delegates is usually limited by the space and PC resources you
have available. We can provide additional workstations if required although
this can take extra time to set up on your site.
Typically, we can train six delegates [students] sharing three PCs.
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Support
What does the standard technical support
contract cover?
Our standard technical support contract provides you with have access
to our permanently manned support desk during the hours of 9am - 5.30pm
Monday to Friday, excluding public holidays. We have the experience and
the resources to deal with any query you may have regarding your eTimeSaver
system.
We know that time is money so won't keep you waiting in an automated phone
queue! In addition to this, as long as you keep your support contract
current, we provide free updates to the eTimeSaver software, including
full version upgrades as and when they become available.
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Do you provide on-site support?
For software we only provide on site support as chargeable consultancy.
This is rarely required as most problems are resolved either by phone
or as training issues.
We do however provide eight or four hour response on-site support for
scanners.
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What if we need a little more hand holding?
We can provide dial-in remote systems management or extended hours support
if required. Please contact us for pricing details.
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