This article explains how WorkEasy Software handles punches that are slightly early, late, or missing, without affecting overtime or out-of-shift classifications. These settings help fine-tune how shifts are tracked and reported, especially for compliance, punctuality, and automation.
Grace Periods
These define “forgiveness windows” around a shift’s start and end time.
Setting | Behavior |
|---|---|
Early arrival grace period | Prevents marking employees as early if they clock in within the specified time before their scheduled start. |
Late arrival grace period | Prevents a late status if employees clock in shortly after the scheduled start. |
Early departure grace period | Prevents marking employees as leaving early if they clock out within the buffer. |
Late departure grace period | Allows late punches to be marked on time within the grace window. |
Auto Clock In/Out
Used to automate punches for employees who forget to clock in or out.
Setting | Behavior |
|---|---|
Auto clock-in after schedule start | System automatically clocks in the employee after the specified time has passed from their scheduled start. |
Auto clock-out after schedule end | System automatically clocks out the employee after the specified time has passed from their scheduled end. |
Schedule Margins
These expand the shift window to allow small punch variances without splitting or reporting extra shifts.
Setting | Behavior |
|---|---|
Early start margin | Includes time worked before the scheduled shift start within the same shift for reporting purposes. |
Late end margin | Includes time worked after the scheduled shift end within the same shift for reporting purposes. |
Practical use cases
Grace periods: For retail stores where a 3-minute delay is tolerated but tracked.
Auto punches: In manufacturing, to ensure all time is recorded, even if workers forget to punch.
Schedule margins: For salaried teams who often start a few minutes early or wrap up late without generating OOS time.
Tips and considerations
Use grace periods to avoid compliance warnings for minor delays.
Enable auto-clocking carefully, as it impacts time audit history.
Use schedule margins to support continuous shift reporting without reclassifying time as out-of-shift.