Introduction
Empeon's Time and Attendance system includes a Geofencing feature that enforces a virtual boundary around designated locations where mobile punches are allowed. For employees permitted to punch in and out using their mobile devices, a geofence ensures they are recording their punches at the correct location, preventing them from being able to punch while off-site.
Setting the parameters for geofencing is done within the Location's settings, found in the Company's Job Info Card. For each Location that is added, there is the ability to set up a geofence for that location along with the option to establish any IP restrictions that should be enforced when employees attempt to punch.
Once the Location settings are configured with geofencing parameters and any IP restrictions, it will not be enforced until the Location is assigned to an employee within the Punch Location Filters section of their Employee Profile. For employees that work in multiple locations, multiple Punch Location Filters can be assigned.
Geofencing & IP Restrictions
To configure the Geofencing and IP Restrictions for a Location, navigate to the HR section within the Company tab select the Job Info Card.
For existing Locations that have been established, click the 'pencil' icon to Edit. For new Locations, select the "+ New Location" button.
After entering the address for the Location, there is a Clock Settings tab that includes the Geofencing settings. This is where the distance around the location can be established. The geofence is structured as a circular boundary around the location, with a minimum radius of 100 feet and a maximum of 3,000 feet. While the shape is fixed as a circle, the distance is customizable to accommodate the size and needs of the Location.
Right below the Geofencing toggle is the ability to set up IP Restrictions. This can be helpful if, within the geofence, there are certain IP addresses that should not be used—such as public Wi-Fi networks or shared devices that aren't meant for employee clock-ins. To restrict an IP address, click the blue "+ Add IP" button and enter the address. Repeat this process for any additional IP addresses that need to be restricted.
Be sure to click "Save" to finalize these settings within the Location.
Punch Location Filters
Once each applicable Location has been configured with the appropriate geofencing and IP restrictions, these parameters will not be enforced until the Location is assigned within the Employee Profile.
It is important to note that adding the Location to the employee's Job Info Card within the Employee Profile is NOT how these parameters are assigned. The Location instead needs to be assigned within the Attendance section of the Employee Profile under Punch Location Filters.
Click on either the blue 'plus' icon in the top right of this section, or the grey bar labeled "+ Add Punch Location Filters" to add a Location to the Employee's Profile. This process is as simple as assigned the Location and clicking "Save".
For employees who work at multiple locations, this process can be repeated as needed for the necessary Locations.