Biometric vs selfie vs geo-fence attendance: which should you use?
Use biometric machines where people arrive at a fixed gate, selfie check-in for small offices and staff without a machine, and geo-fenced check-in for anyone who works away from the office. Most growing companies need a mix, so choose software that handles all three in one register.
The three methods compared
| Method | Best for | Watch out for |
|---|---|---|
| Biometric machine | Factories, warehouses and offices with one entrance | Needs a device and a PC to sync data |
| Selfie check-in | Small offices, shops and branches without a machine | Staff need a smartphone |
| Geo-fence | Sites, client locations and field teams | Location must be switched on during check-in |
Why a mix works best
A plant team punches at the gate, the accounts team uses selfies, and sales reps check in at client sites. If all three land in the same register, payroll stays simple and nobody keeps a separate sheet.
What to check in software
- Does it work with your existing biometric machines?
- Can each employee use a different method?
- Do late marks, overtime and leave apply the same way to every method?
- Does attendance flow straight into payroll?
Crew supports eSSL and Biomax machines, selfie check-in and geo-fences in one register. See attendance.
Frequently asked questions
Is biometric attendance better than mobile check-in?
For people at a fixed gate, yes. For people who move around, geo-fenced mobile check-in works better.
Can I use more than one method?
Yes. In Crew each employee can use the method that suits their site.
