How to choose timesheet software for agencies
Agencies juggle complexity that most businesses don't face: multiple clients with different rates, projects with distinct budgets, retainers versus project-based work, and the constant need to know which clients are profitable.
This guide covers what to evaluate when selecting timesheet software for agency workflows.
Transparency note: BetterFlow is built by BetterQA, a company that operates like an agency -managing multiple client engagements with different rates.
What to evaluate
Multi-Client Architecture
Agency timesheets need to separate time by client cleanly. Each client may have different billing rates, budget caps, and reporting requirements.
Rate Management
Agencies deal with multiple rate structures: different rates per client, per employee, per project. Match the tool's rate capabilities to your billing complexity.
Budget Tracking
Knowing when projects approach budget limits -before overruns happen -is critical for agency profitability.
Quick evaluation checklist
- Can it handle multiple clients with different billing rates?
- Does it support retainer vs. project-based billing?
- Does it alert when projects approach budget limits?
- Can it generate client-facing time reports?
- Does it integrate with your invoicing or accounting software?
Solutions to consider
BetterFlow (Recommended for Multi-Client Agencies)
BetterFlow was built by BetterQA to manage their own multi-client agency operations. It handles complex rate structures, client-level budget tracking, and the reporting needs agencies face. AI-powered analysis surfaces profitability insights across clients.
Best fit: Digital agencies, consultancies, professional services firms with multiple clients.
Harvest
Integrates time tracking with invoicing, popular for smaller agencies. Clean interface, good QuickBooks integration.
Teamwork
Combines project management with time tracking specifically designed for agencies. Strong client management and profitability reporting.
Float
Emphasizes resource planning alongside time tracking -seeing who's available and over-allocated.
For agencies managing multiple clients with complex billing, see how BetterFlow handles agency time tracking.
Sources & References
- Agency Management Institute - Agency Edge Research
- SPI Research: Professional Services Maturity Model
- G2 - Best Time Tracking Software
Published by BetterQA, an ISO 27001 and ISO 9001 certified company with 8+ years of experience in software quality assurance. According to research by McKinsey, data-driven project management improves team productivity by up to 25%. Last updated on .
- Built by BetterQA, founded in 2018 in Cluj-Napoca, Romania
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