DeskTime.com
DeskTime is a time tracking and productivity analytics platform founded in 2011, originally targeting freelancers and small teams.
Profile
Automatic time tracking and productivity analytics software for teams.
DeskTime is a time tracking and productivity analytics platform founded in 2011, originally targeting freelancers and small teams. The Latvia-based company has since expanded to serve larger enterprises, with a focus on automated time tracking, project costing, and workforce analytics. As of 2026, DeskTime reports over 730,000 users globally, with particular traction in professional services, IT, and remote-first organizations.
The platform differentiates itself through automatic time tracking that runs in the background, eliminating manual timesheet entry. DeskTime's 2024 ISO 27001 certification for information security management signals its push into more regulated industries. Recent product development has emphasized AI-driven productivity insights and deeper integrations with project management tools like Jira and GitLab. While the company does not disclose revenue, its freemium model and $7/user/month starting price point position it as a mid-market alternative to both lightweight time trackers and enterprise workforce management suites.
Who buys this
- Remote and hybrid teams managing distributed workforces
- Professional services firms tracking billable hours
- IT departments monitoring developer productivity
- HR teams analyzing workforce efficiency
- Government and public sector organizations with compliance requirements
Strengths and what to watch
Strengths
- Background tracking eliminates manual timesheet entry, capturing all computer activity
- ISO 27001 certification demonstrates enterprise-grade data security compliance
- Deep integrations with developer tools like Jira and GitLab for technical teams
Watch for
- Privacy concerns around employee monitoring, especially in EU jurisdictions with strict worker protection laws
- Heavy reliance on desktop apps in a shifting mobile/cloud work environment
- Increasing competition from all-in-one HR platforms adding time tracking features
Key Information
- Founded
- 2011
Frequently Asked Questions
What is DeskTime and how does it work?
DeskTime is automatic time tracking software that runs in the background on computers, eliminating manual timesheets. Founded in 2011, it captures work activity, analyzes productivity, and integrates with tools like Jira. Used by 730,000+ professionals, it's popular for remote teams and billable hour tracking.
How does DeskTime track productivity for remote teams?
DeskTime measures active computer usage, application activity, and website visits to generate productivity reports. Its algorithms distinguish productive vs. unproductive time, helping managers optimize workflows. The system works silently in the background, particularly useful for distributed teams needing visibility without micromanagement.
Is DeskTime compliant with data security standards?
Yes, DeskTime holds ISO 27001 certification for information security management, meeting enterprise requirements. This certification validates its data protection measures for sensitive industries. The platform processes activity data while complying with EU privacy regulations, though some jurisdictions may require employee consent for monitoring.
Can DeskTime integrate with project management tools?
DeskTime offers native integrations with developer tools like Jira and GitLab, automatically linking time entries to tasks. This helps technical teams track project hours without switching apps. The API also allows custom connections to other business systems for consolidated reporting.
What types of companies use DeskTime most?
DeskTime serves professional services firms tracking billable hours, IT teams monitoring developer productivity, and HR departments analyzing workforce efficiency. Its ISO certification also attracts government agencies. The $7/user/month pricing makes it accessible for mid-market organizations between freelancers and large enterprises.
How does DeskTime handle privacy concerns with employee monitoring?
DeskTime provides transparency controls showing employees exactly what's tracked. Organizations must configure it per local laws—some EU countries require opt-in consent. The system focuses on productivity patterns rather than keystroke logging, balancing oversight with privacy. Data is encrypted and access-controlled per ISO 27001 standards.
Sources
- desktime.com — Company overview and product capabilities
- www.wired.com — Mention of DeskTime's productivity research methodology
- desktime.com — Data handling and compliance practices
- desktime.com — Technical integration capabilities