The trouble with time tracking – and how to simplify it

Aug. 6, 2025

Time tracking is too often overlooked.

In many SMEs, writing hours remains a frustration. Especially in smaller companies, it often seems less important because projects are smaller and direct contact is easier. Time writing is therefore often skipped or sometimes not recorded at all. But what is so bad about this? Surely you know what everyone did and for how long?

Why is time tracking often done poorly?

Time tracking often feels like extra work because it is disconnected from the daily workflow. Excel sheets, separate apps, or paper notes create confusion and lead to errors. Employees want to focus on the project itself—the work that adds real value. In that context, time tracking feels like a burdensome and unimportant task.

But by tracking time properly, you can actually improve both the product and the processes. This leads to faster delivery, greater transparency, and ultimately a better result for the client. Time tracking is not unimportant—it is absolutely essential!

Why good timekeeping is essential

When working on a project basis, good timekeeping provides transparency to clients. You know exactly how many hours were put into a project and how much it cost the customer. This transparency creates trust and strengthens the customer relationship, leading to more regular customers.

In addition, without accurate timekeeping, you cannot properly analyze where processes can be improved. Which tasks take too much time? Where can things be done more efficiently? Without proper registration, optimization remains difficult.

Making timekeeping easier with an ERP system

Many companies try to solve the problem with separate tools, spreadsheets or apps. Unfortunately, this often actually creates more confusion, errors and demotivation for employees. As a result, time tracking remains a difficult and time-consuming task.

An ERP system can greatly simplify timekeeping. By combining project administration and timekeeping in one central location, you avoid duplication and reduce errors. Employees no longer have to switch between separate tools or manually transcribe data. This ensures overview, more consistency and reliable data that can be used directly for reporting and invoicing.

Time tracking with Maki

Maki is an ERP system designed specifically for SMEs. It helps employees record their hours easily and accurately, linked directly to projects and tasks. Thanks to the user-friendly interface, timekeeping no longer feels like extra work, but a logical part of the daily process.

With Maki, you not only improve your timekeeping, but also the total overview of your business processes. This keeps you in control, saves time and strengthens your relationship with your clients.

Want to experience how Maki can contribute to a more efficient way of working and better overview? Then try the 30-day free trial and see for yourself what Maki can do for your organization.