The Capstone Course for Public Relations Majors at the SOJC

Time Tracking Tips

Posted by kelli on Dec 31st, 2009 in Featured Articles, Uncategorized | 0 comments

[This is specifically for Kelli's class]

Step 1: Set up a Google Doc spreadsheet & invite/share with all your team members and Kelli.

Step 2: On the X axis (vertical) enter: week number and team member names

Step 3: On the Y axis (horizontal) enter: time categories

Secondary Research
Primary Research
Planning/Strategy
Project Management
Writing/Editing
Meetings (in person)
Correspondence (phone, email)
Specific categories to your client (ex: design, social media, event, etc.)

Step 4: Each teammate should enter their time in 1/4 hour increments for each task every week (every day that you log time is better).

Tips:

Find a way to track time that works for you.

In the moment: Jot the time you begin a task on a sticky note, start a timer on your computer or phone. Input your time in the spreadsheet when you complete a task.
Daily: review your day’s calendar, email log and mental records and input time spent at the end of the day.

It’s human nature to underestimate how much time it takes to do a particular task and how much time you spend on it. Do not wait until the end of the week (or the end of the term!) to input your time.

Time Tracking Tips

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