Workpuls Teramind ActivTrak Hubstaff DeskTime Time Doctor RescueTime Kickidler Veriato Work Examiner
OVERVIEW
Price $6/user/month $6/user/month $7.20/user/month $7/user/month $7/user/month $9.99/user/month $6/user/month $9.99/user/month $150/licence/year $60/licence (lifetime)
Free trial 7 days 7 days No 14 days 14 days 14 days 30 days 7 days Yes 30 days
Ease of use Very easy Difficult Very easy Easy Easy Very easy Very easy Very easy Very difficult Easy
TRACKING METHODS
Unlimited (tracker working 24/7)
Fixed (defined working hours)
Automatic (when computer is connected to a specified network)
Manual (start/stop)
Project based (track time only on projects)
GENERAL MONITORING FEATURES
Stealth mode
App and website usage
Real-time monitoring
Offline time tracking
Attendance
Activity levels
Keylogger
Geolocation
Remote desktop control
Website/activity blocking
SCREENSHOTS AND RECORDING
Screenshots
Screenshots on demand
Screen recording
PRODUCTIVITY FEATURES
Productivity trends
Websites and apps labeling
Category labeling
Productivity alerts
ADVANCED SECURITY FEATURES
User behavior analytics
Data loss prevention
Advanced file and web monitoring
REPORTING
Productivity reports
Team reports
Timelines
Email reports
Access management
PLATFORMS
Web
Mac desktop app
Windows desktop app
Linux desktop app
Mobile app iOS, Android iOS, Android iOS, Android iOS, Android iOS, Android Android
Browser extension Chrome Chrome Chrome
Other Citrix, VMware Chrome OS
OTHER
Support Phone, email, online Phone, email, online Phone, email, online Email, online Phone, email, online, in-person Online Phone, email, online Email, online, Viber, Whatsapp Phone, email, online, support ticket Phone, email, online
Knowledge base
Video tutorials
Integrations comming soon
API
Deployment cloud, on-premise cloud, on-premise, AWS, Azure cloud cloud cloud cloud cloud on-premise cloud, on-premise on-premise
Kronos Humanity Timeclockplus Tsheets Wheniwork Deputy Replicon Jibble EbilityTimeTracker OnTheClock BeeBole
OVERVIEW
Price(per month)Available upon requestFrom $2 per userAvailable upon requestFrom $6.40 per user+$16Free for up to 75 usersFrom $2.50 per userBasic plan:$30 for 5 users+$5 per additional userFrom $1.50 per employeeFrom $4 per user+$8From $2.20 per user$5.99 per user per month
Free trial30 days14 daysYes14 days14 days14 days30 days30 days,no credit card required
Ease of useDifficultEasyDifficultVery easyEasyEasyDifficultVery easyEasyEasyEasy
FEATURES
Timecard management
Scheduling
Shift Trading
Timesheets
Break time management
Real-time tracking
PTO Management
Payroll
Invoicing
Client billing
GPS tracking
Clock out reminders
Alerts
Manual time
PUNCH-IN METHODS
Web app
Mobile app
Time clock device
Time clock kiosk
Facial recognition
Fingerprint scanning
Geofencing
Group punch-in
REPORTING
Visual reports
Email reports
Time rounding
MANAGEMENT
Permissions
Manager approvals
Add time for others
Integrations
PLATFORMS
Web
Android app
iOS app
Mac desktop app
Windows desktop app
Linux desktop app
OTHER
SupportPhone and onlinePhone and onlinePhone,chat and onlinePhone and chatEmail and onlineChat and phonePhone,email,chat and onlinePhone and onlinePhone,email,chat and onlinePhone and onlineOnline chat and video support in English,French,and Spanish
Knowledge base
Video tutorials
Community forum
API
Workpuls Hubstaff Toggl TimeDoctor Harvest TimeCamp Timely Everhour Tick TMetric
OVERVIEW
Price (per month) $6 per user $5.83 per user $9 per user $9.99 per user $10.80 per user $5.25 per user $99 for 5 users $7 per user $19 for 10 projects $5 per user
Free trial 7 days 14 days 30 days 14 days 30 days Yes 14 days 14 days 30 days 30 days
Ease of use Very easy Difficult Difficult Very easy Easy Very easy Easy Difficult Very easy Difficult
TIME TRACKING METHODS
Manual
Start/stop buttons
Automatic time mapping
IN-DEPTH TASK AND PROJECT ANALYSIS
Screenshots
App and website usage
Activity levels coming soon
Real-time tracking
TASK AND PROJECT MANAGEMENT
Project adding
Project templates
Project status
Task assignment
Task priorities
Budgeting coming soon
Mark billable/non-billable hours
Payroll calculation
Invoicing
ALERTS
Idle time reminders
Deadline alerts coming soon
Budget alerts coming soon
REPORTING
Client login
Productivity analysis
Email reports coming soon
PLATFORMS
Web
Mac desktop app
Windows desktop app
Linux desktop app coming soon
iOS app Beta
Android app
Browser extension Chrome Chrome, Firefox Chrome Chrome Chrome, Firefox Chrome Chrome, Firefox, Opera, Edge
OTHER
Support Phone and online Email and online Email and online Online Online, email and phone Email, online and support ticket Email and chat Email and chat Email Chat
Knowledge base
Video tutorials
Integrations coming soon
API
On-premise hosting

Virtual assistants have become an increasingly popular solution for businesses looking to streamline their operations and improve productivity. 

However, there are still many myths and misconceptions surrounding virtual assistants that prevent businesses from fully embracing this solution. 

In this blog post, we will debunk five common myths about virtual assistants and highlight how Insightful's remote workspace software solves the problem of how to monitor employee productivity to better support your employees. 

Myth #1 - Virtual Assistants Are Too Expensive

One of the most common myths about virtual assistants is that they are too expensive - but this is not true. Virtual assistants can be hired on a part-time or project basis, which can help businesses save money by handling tasks that would otherwise require a full-time employee, such as administrative work or customer service.

The salary of a virtual assistant can vary widely based on their experience, the specific tasks they perform, and their geographical location. In the United States, the typical hourly rate for a virtual assistant ranges from around $10 to $30. However, for more specialized tasks or for virtual assistants with a higher level of expertise, the rate can go up to $50 or more per hour.

If the virtual assistant is salaried and working full-time, the annual pay could range from around $20,000 to over $60,000 depending on their tasks, level of responsibility, and experience.

Factors like the size and type of the client's business, the industry, and the cost of living in the VA's location can also affect the pay rate. Always do thorough research and consider these factors when deciding on pay for a virtual assistant.

Employing a virtual assistant (VA) can result in significant cost savings for companies, especially small businesses. Their remote working nature eliminates the need for traditional employee benefits, including payroll taxes, unemployment, and workers' compensation insurance. A distinct advantage of VAs is that companies only pay for the time they spend on tasks, resulting in more efficient use of resources. 

Since VAs often come with a wealth of expertise, there's a reduction in training costs. What’s more, the flexible schedules of VAs help companies steer clear of costly overtime, and establishing a long-term relationship reduces turnover expenses. 

Lastly, the scalability VAs offer allows businesses to adapt to fluctuating activity levels without the financial commitment of hiring additional full-time employees, providing both flexibility and cost-effectiveness. By analyzing your business needs and carefully considering the potential savings, many companies will find that hiring a VA can be a financially sound decision.

Myth #2 - Virtual Assistants Are Not Reliable

Virtual assistants, contrary to a popular misconception, can often be as reliable, if not more so, than traditional in-office employees. 

One of the key aspects that makes a VA reliable is their professional commitment. As independent contractors, their business success depends on the quality of service they provide, which often translates to a high level of reliability and dedication to their tasks. VAs understand that their reputation and future work opportunities depend on each client's satisfaction, pushing them to be consistently dependable and meet or exceed expectations.

Virtual assistants operate in a global environment, allowing for more flexible availability. They can often work outside of standard business hours and adapt their schedules to meet the requirements of their clients across different time zones. This makes them a reliable resource for businesses that operate across multiple time zones or need to address customer needs around the clock.

How to monitor work from home employees for greater reliability

What is computer monitoring?

With Insightful's activity and performance monitoring software, businesses can effectively remote monitor PCs, allowing them to track the productivity of virtual assistants and ensure the timely completion of tasks. This software provides employers with real-time data on the VA's activity, enabling them to measure productivity, evaluate the quality of work, and ensure transparency in the VA's operations - giving businesses peace of mind and establishing trust.

Myth #3 - Virtual Assistants Are Not Skilled

The belief that virtual assistants (VAs) are not equipped to handle complex tasks is a significant misconception in the business world. In reality, the field of virtual assistance has evolved dramatically over the years, with many VAs now offering a wide range of specialized services that go far beyond basic administrative tasks.

Many VAs come from professional backgrounds and bring a wealth of experience and a wide range of specialized skills. This trend has been amplified by the recent surge in remote work, which has led professionals from many fields to offer their services as virtual assistants. The result is an extensive pool of VAs that can be matched to the unique needs of a business.

For example, some VAs specialize in social media management. They have a deep understanding of various social media platforms, the algorithms that drive them, and the strategies needed to engage audiences effectively. They can develop and manage a business's social media strategy, create engaging content, manage ad campaigns, and analyze performance data to adjust strategies as needed.

There are also VAs with expertise in areas like project management, bookkeeping, content creation, market research, customer service, and more. These VAs can take on complex tasks that require specific knowledge and experience, freeing up valuable time for businesses to focus on strategic planning and growth.

Myth #4 - Virtual Assistants Are Not Secure

The notion that virtual assistants (VAs) can compromise a company's data security is a prevalent myth. While it's true that working with VAs entails some level of risk given the remote nature of the job, many measures can be put in place to ensure robust security. 

A key solution in this regard is the use of sophisticated employee monitoring and productivity software like Insightful.

Insightful's software has been designed with strong security features to ensure safe and secure work environments. It can monitor the online activities of virtual assistants, providing businesses with real-time visibility into their data usage and online behavior. This feature is crucial in identifying any potential security risks promptly and taking immediate action to mitigate them.

Moreover, this software ensures that VAs use secure communication channels by monitoring the applications and platforms they use. It can detect if any unsecured or unauthorized platforms are being used for business communication and prompt appropriate action. This can prevent data leaks and ensure that all business-related communication happens over approved and secure channels.

This software also has the capability to track and log all activities, providing an audit trail in case of any security incidents. This feature is important for investigations and for ensuring accountability. Furthermore, businesses can employ additional security measures such as two-factor authentication, secure VPNs, and regular security training for VAs to ensure a secure virtual working environment.

Myth #5 - Virtual Assistants Are Not Personal

The belief that virtual assistants (VAs) lack the personal touch necessary for tasks such as customer service is not true. The reality is that many virtual assistants are skilled communicators and can provide a personalized, human touch that customers appreciate.

To start with, customer service is about effective communication, empathy, and problem-solving skills, all of which many VAs possess. In fact, there are virtual assistants who specialize in customer service roles, bringing with them years of experience and a deep understanding of customer service best practices.

Many virtual assistants have excellent interpersonal skills and a friendly demeanor, which can greatly enhance the customer experience. They can build rapport with customers, listen to their concerns, and provide thoughtful and personalized solutions. This human connection can lead to increased customer satisfaction and loyalty.

Using technology can also enhance the personal touch provided by VAs. For instance, video conferencing tools allow for face-to-face interaction, which can foster a more personal connection than email or chat communications. Similarly, Customer Relationship Management (CRM) software can help VAs personalize customer interactions by providing them with detailed customer profiles and history.

By hiring a virtual assistant with the right skills and providing them with the necessary tools and training, businesses can deliver a personalized and high-quality customer service experience. The human touch is not lost with virtual assistance; in fact, it can be enhanced when done right.

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Remote Work Management

Debunking 5 Myths About Virtual Assistants

Written by
Kendra Gaffin
Published on
May 12, 2023

Virtual assistants have become an increasingly popular solution for businesses looking to streamline their operations and improve productivity. 

However, there are still many myths and misconceptions surrounding virtual assistants that prevent businesses from fully embracing this solution. 

In this blog post, we will debunk five common myths about virtual assistants and highlight how Insightful's remote workspace software solves the problem of how to monitor employee productivity to better support your employees. 

Myth #1 - Virtual Assistants Are Too Expensive

One of the most common myths about virtual assistants is that they are too expensive - but this is not true. Virtual assistants can be hired on a part-time or project basis, which can help businesses save money by handling tasks that would otherwise require a full-time employee, such as administrative work or customer service.

The salary of a virtual assistant can vary widely based on their experience, the specific tasks they perform, and their geographical location. In the United States, the typical hourly rate for a virtual assistant ranges from around $10 to $30. However, for more specialized tasks or for virtual assistants with a higher level of expertise, the rate can go up to $50 or more per hour.

If the virtual assistant is salaried and working full-time, the annual pay could range from around $20,000 to over $60,000 depending on their tasks, level of responsibility, and experience.

Factors like the size and type of the client's business, the industry, and the cost of living in the VA's location can also affect the pay rate. Always do thorough research and consider these factors when deciding on pay for a virtual assistant.

Employing a virtual assistant (VA) can result in significant cost savings for companies, especially small businesses. Their remote working nature eliminates the need for traditional employee benefits, including payroll taxes, unemployment, and workers' compensation insurance. A distinct advantage of VAs is that companies only pay for the time they spend on tasks, resulting in more efficient use of resources. 

Since VAs often come with a wealth of expertise, there's a reduction in training costs. What’s more, the flexible schedules of VAs help companies steer clear of costly overtime, and establishing a long-term relationship reduces turnover expenses. 

Lastly, the scalability VAs offer allows businesses to adapt to fluctuating activity levels without the financial commitment of hiring additional full-time employees, providing both flexibility and cost-effectiveness. By analyzing your business needs and carefully considering the potential savings, many companies will find that hiring a VA can be a financially sound decision.

Myth #2 - Virtual Assistants Are Not Reliable

Virtual assistants, contrary to a popular misconception, can often be as reliable, if not more so, than traditional in-office employees. 

One of the key aspects that makes a VA reliable is their professional commitment. As independent contractors, their business success depends on the quality of service they provide, which often translates to a high level of reliability and dedication to their tasks. VAs understand that their reputation and future work opportunities depend on each client's satisfaction, pushing them to be consistently dependable and meet or exceed expectations.

Virtual assistants operate in a global environment, allowing for more flexible availability. They can often work outside of standard business hours and adapt their schedules to meet the requirements of their clients across different time zones. This makes them a reliable resource for businesses that operate across multiple time zones or need to address customer needs around the clock.

How to monitor work from home employees for greater reliability

What is computer monitoring?

With Insightful's activity and performance monitoring software, businesses can effectively remote monitor PCs, allowing them to track the productivity of virtual assistants and ensure the timely completion of tasks. This software provides employers with real-time data on the VA's activity, enabling them to measure productivity, evaluate the quality of work, and ensure transparency in the VA's operations - giving businesses peace of mind and establishing trust.

Myth #3 - Virtual Assistants Are Not Skilled

The belief that virtual assistants (VAs) are not equipped to handle complex tasks is a significant misconception in the business world. In reality, the field of virtual assistance has evolved dramatically over the years, with many VAs now offering a wide range of specialized services that go far beyond basic administrative tasks.

Many VAs come from professional backgrounds and bring a wealth of experience and a wide range of specialized skills. This trend has been amplified by the recent surge in remote work, which has led professionals from many fields to offer their services as virtual assistants. The result is an extensive pool of VAs that can be matched to the unique needs of a business.

For example, some VAs specialize in social media management. They have a deep understanding of various social media platforms, the algorithms that drive them, and the strategies needed to engage audiences effectively. They can develop and manage a business's social media strategy, create engaging content, manage ad campaigns, and analyze performance data to adjust strategies as needed.

There are also VAs with expertise in areas like project management, bookkeeping, content creation, market research, customer service, and more. These VAs can take on complex tasks that require specific knowledge and experience, freeing up valuable time for businesses to focus on strategic planning and growth.

Myth #4 - Virtual Assistants Are Not Secure

The notion that virtual assistants (VAs) can compromise a company's data security is a prevalent myth. While it's true that working with VAs entails some level of risk given the remote nature of the job, many measures can be put in place to ensure robust security. 

A key solution in this regard is the use of sophisticated employee monitoring and productivity software like Insightful.

Insightful's software has been designed with strong security features to ensure safe and secure work environments. It can monitor the online activities of virtual assistants, providing businesses with real-time visibility into their data usage and online behavior. This feature is crucial in identifying any potential security risks promptly and taking immediate action to mitigate them.

Moreover, this software ensures that VAs use secure communication channels by monitoring the applications and platforms they use. It can detect if any unsecured or unauthorized platforms are being used for business communication and prompt appropriate action. This can prevent data leaks and ensure that all business-related communication happens over approved and secure channels.

This software also has the capability to track and log all activities, providing an audit trail in case of any security incidents. This feature is important for investigations and for ensuring accountability. Furthermore, businesses can employ additional security measures such as two-factor authentication, secure VPNs, and regular security training for VAs to ensure a secure virtual working environment.

Myth #5 - Virtual Assistants Are Not Personal

The belief that virtual assistants (VAs) lack the personal touch necessary for tasks such as customer service is not true. The reality is that many virtual assistants are skilled communicators and can provide a personalized, human touch that customers appreciate.

To start with, customer service is about effective communication, empathy, and problem-solving skills, all of which many VAs possess. In fact, there are virtual assistants who specialize in customer service roles, bringing with them years of experience and a deep understanding of customer service best practices.

Many virtual assistants have excellent interpersonal skills and a friendly demeanor, which can greatly enhance the customer experience. They can build rapport with customers, listen to their concerns, and provide thoughtful and personalized solutions. This human connection can lead to increased customer satisfaction and loyalty.

Using technology can also enhance the personal touch provided by VAs. For instance, video conferencing tools allow for face-to-face interaction, which can foster a more personal connection than email or chat communications. Similarly, Customer Relationship Management (CRM) software can help VAs personalize customer interactions by providing them with detailed customer profiles and history.

By hiring a virtual assistant with the right skills and providing them with the necessary tools and training, businesses can deliver a personalized and high-quality customer service experience. The human touch is not lost with virtual assistance; in fact, it can be enhanced when done right.