Is Sandtime.io really free?

Yes! Sandtime.io offers a free plan for small teams with no feature limitations. You can track time, create reports, and manage projects without paying anything.

How does Sandtime.io compare to Toggl or Clockify?

Sandtime.io offers unique features like multi-currency support, temporal rates (historical rate tracking), and custom subdomains for free. Unlike some competitors, there are no artificial feature limits on the free plan.

Can I use Sandtime.io for my team?

Absolutely! Sandtime.io is built for teams. You can invite team members, assign them to projects, and see everyone's time tracking in one dashboard.

What integrations does Sandtime.io support?

Sandtime.io integrates with Slack for easy time tracking without leaving your communication tool. Desktop apps, mobile apps, and a Chrome extension are also available.

Core Hours

Core hours are designated time periods during which all team members must be available and working. Outside of core hours, employees have flexibility in when they complete their remaining work hours.

Key Characteristics

Mandatory availability: All team members must be present during core hours.
Flexible boundaries: Time outside core hours can be scheduled flexibly.
Collaboration-focused: Core hours enable meetings, real-time communication, and teamwork.

Common Core Hours Structures

Traditional Model

Core hours: 10:00 AM - 3:00 PM
Flexible: Arrive between 7:00 AM - 10:00 AM
Flexible: Leave between 3:00 PM - 7:00 PM

Compressed Model

Core hours: 11:00 AM - 2:00 PM
Maximum flexibility with minimal overlap

Time Zone Model

Core hours adjusted for distributed teams
Typically 3-4 hours of overlap across regions

Benefits for Organizations

Work-life balance: Employees can manage personal commitments.
Reduced commute stress: Avoid rush hour traffic.
Extended coverage: Staggered schedules provide longer availability windows.
Increased satisfaction: Flexibility improves retention.

Impact on Workforce Planning

For businesses using time tracking software like Sandtime.io:

Scheduling: Core hours define when meetings can be scheduled.
Coverage planning: Ensure adequate staffing during core and non-core periods.
Timesheet validation: Verify employees meet minimum core hours requirements.
Overtime management: Track hours outside the standard window.

Implementation Considerations

Communication

Clearly document core hours in employee handbooks and onboarding materials.

Time Tracking

Use time tracking software to monitor compliance without micromanaging.

Manager Training

Ensure managers understand how to lead flexible teams effectively.

Client Expectations

Align core hours with client availability needs.

Core Hours vs. Flextime

Core Hours	Full Flextime
Fixed overlap period	No mandatory overlap
Scheduled collaboration	Async-first communication
Easier for traditional clients	Better for distributed teams
Moderate flexibility	Maximum flexibility

Core hours relate to time tracking (monitoring compliance), timesheets (recording hours), and overtime (hours beyond standard schedules).