How Do I Install TimeForge with Aloha Point of Sale?

TimeForge can integrate with several Point of Sale systems, including Aloha by Radiant Systems. Aloha is a great Point of Sale system, with dealers all over the world.

TimeForge integration with Aloha involves installing the TimeForge Aloha Bridge software on a computer system with access to the Aloha installation directory.

The software will read and write to your Aloha system as necessary, and can keep employees, positions / job codes, sales, and time punches synchronized between the two systems. Additionally, you can use the TimeForge Fingerprint scanner with Aloha POS to allow biometric clock-in’s and clock-out’s.

Install the TimeForge Aloha Bridge software

install-the-timeforge-aloha-bridge-software1.png

Begin installing the TimeForge Aloha Bridge software.

Accept the EULA

accept-the-eula2.png

Accept the terms of the End User License Agreement.

Choose a Directory to Install the Software

choose-a-directory-to-install-the-software2.png

Choose a directory to install the TimeForge Aloha Bridge. The default is usually fine.

Pick a Start Menu Folder

pick-a-start-menu-folder2.png

Choose the Start Menu Folder to install the software.

Enter Your Web Service Username and Password

enter-your-web-service-username-and-password3.png

1. If you already have a TimeForge account, enter your Web Service Username and Password to connect with TimeForge.

A web service username and password is not the same as your TimeForge username (usually your email address), but is a secured username and password that allows the Dinerware TimeForge Bridge to communicate with TimeForge.

You can create a Web Service account by logging into your account, and go to the Settings for your location / store. You can then set your web service username and password.

2. If you do not yet have a TimeForge account, get started by creating a TimeForge account. We will create a Web Service Username and Password for you automatically.

Create a TimeForge Account

create-a-timeforge-account2.png

If you need to create a TimeForge account, please fill out all of the fields, including your company name, first and last name, email address, password, and a password recovery answer.

We will automatically create your Web Service Username and Password for you.

Configure for Aloha POS

configure-for-aloha-pos1.png

Configure TimeForge for your Aloha POS installation. In most cases, the defaults will suffice for your software.

1. Choose the directory where Aloha is installed. This could be on a network drive. Normally it will be C:\Aloha, or C:\AlohaQS for Aloha Quick Service.

2. Indicate how many previous / prior days TimeForge should check for labor adjustments. Changes made prior to this time frame may not be reflected inside of TimeForge.

All Done!

all-done2.png

At this point, go ahead and run the TimeForge Bridge software.

Posted in Aloha POS / No Comments.

How Do I Use TimeForge with Dinerware POS?

TimeForge can integrate with several Point of Sale systems, including Dinerware. Dinerware is a wonderful Point of Sale system, with dealers all over the world.

TimeForge integration with Dinerware involves installing the TimeForge Dinerware Bridge software on the Brain computer system.

The software will read and write to your Dinerware system as necessary, and can enforce your TimeForge schedules – preventing employees from riding the clock.

Additionally, you can use the TimeForge Fingerprint scanner with Dinerware to allow biometric clock-in’s and clock-out’s.

Make Sure that the Connector and Translator are Both Running

make-sure-that-the-connector-and-translator-are-both-running.png

Check the Windows task bar, which is the bar that normally runs along the bottom of the computer and contains the Start menu (on the left) and clock (on the right).

You should see icons similar to those shown above. Both of these icons should be displayed, and if they are, then TimeForge is working properly.

Set Your Attendance Options for Riding the Clock

set-your-attendance-options-for-riding-the-clock.png

In TimeForge, access the Attendance Options (located in the Attendance tab). You will want to set the grace periods for early clock in, and late clock out.

These settings can be set to values that make sense for your business, though many businesses choose a 5 – 10 minute early clock in, and a 10 – 20 minute late clock out.

Create and Post a Schedule in TimeForge

create-and-post-a-schedule-in-timeforge.png

Create and post a schedule in TimeForge, so that staff members are notified of upcoming shifts.

This will also allow the TimeForge Dinerware Bridge to synchronize and enforce the schedule.

Synchronize the TimeForge Dinerware

synchronize-the-timeforge-dinerware.png

TimeForge automatically synchronizes data between your Dinerware POS system and the live TimeForge server.

This ensures that employees, positions, time cards, schedules, and sales are automatically transferred between the two systems.

During heavy activity at your restaurant, this synchronization is done very often, and during slower periods of activities, it is done less often.

Staff Members Must Log In to Dinerware

staff-members-must-log-in-to-dinerware.png

Before an employee can access the Dinerware POS, they must enter their PIN, or swipe a mag card (if configured).

Employees Too Early or Too Late Will Need Manager Approval to Clock In

employees-too-early-or-too-late-will-need-manager-approval-to-clock-in.png

An employee who is not on the schedule will be presented with a screen for a manager override.

Additionally, employees who show up too early, or attempt to clock out too late, will also be prompted for a manager override.

This will reduce the amount of clock riding that staff members can do, reducing labor costs by 2% – 3% instantly!

Posted in Dinerware POS / No Comments.

How Do I Define Menu Items for Sales Forecasting with Dinerware POS?

TimeForge can integrate with several Point of Sale systems, including Dinerware. Dinerware is a wonderful Point of Sale system, with dealers all over the world.

TimeForge integration with Dinerware involves installing the TimeForge Dinerware Bridge software on the Brain computer system.

While building schedules, it is often useful to forecast sales at your store, or to ensure that sales and labor have an acceptable ratio. TimeForge automatically pulls sales data from your Dinerware POS system, synchronizing this data to TimeForge, and allowing you to build fast and simple schedules.

You can forecast sales by gross sales, individual menu items, or groups of menu items (such as entrées or desserts).

Define Menu Items for Sales Forecasting

define-menu-items-for-sales-forecasting.png

Access the Sales menu to set up Menu Items and Menu Item Groups for Sales Forecasting within TimeForge.

This will allow you to benchmark and schedule labor in comparison to your desired labor needs.

Choose up to 10 Menu Items from your Menu

choose-up-to-10-menu-items-from-your-menu.png

TimeForge allows up to 10 Menu Items from your Dinerware Menu to be chosen for Sales Forecasting.

Details for the sales of these 10 Menu Items are replicated from your Dinerware database to your TimeForge labor management system, and will allow you to accurately compare sales against schedules and actual attendance.

Use Menu Item Groups to Combine Sales from Multiple Menu Items

use-menu-item-groups-to-combine-sales-from-multiple-menu-items.png

Menu Item Groups allow you to easily and quickly combine sales from multiple menu items in your Dinerware menu into a single Sales Forecast.

For example, you may want to build schedules based on entrées, or drinks, or some other combination of menu items.

Create or Modify a Menu Item Group

create-or-modify-a-menu-item-group.png

Enter a descriptive name, and choose the necessary menu items from your Dinerware database. Choose Save when you are finished.

TimeForge will automatically synchronize your sales data the next time it connects to the TimeForge server.

Posted in Dinerware POS / No Comments.

How Do I Configure TimeForge with Dinerware Point of Sale?

TimeForge can integrate with several Point of Sale systems, including Dinerware. Dinerware is a wonderful Point of Sale system, with dealers all over the world.

TimeForge integration with Dinerware involves installing the TimeForge Dinerware Bridge software on the Brain computer system.

The software will read and write to your Dinerware system as necessary, and can enforce your TimeForge schedules – preventing employees from riding the clock. Additionally, you can use the TimeForge Fingerprint scanner with Dinerware to allow biometric clock-in’s and clock-out’s.

Ensure the Software is Configured Properly

media-1257999114882.png

If the TimeForge Dinerware Bridge was not properly configured to use a Web Service account, you will first need to configure the Web Services.

Configure the TimeForge Dinerware Bridge

media-1257999504964.png

If the TimeForge Dinerware Bridge has not yet been fully configured, make sure to set up the Web Service Username and Password.

These values can be configured on the TimeForge web site, and will allow the software to communicate with TimeForge securely.

Configure the Dinerware POS Integration

media-1257999559606.png

Configure the Dinerware POS side of the TimeForge Dinerware Bridge. Some of the important values on this screen include:

1. Dinerware Server settings, including the Server Name, Database Name, Username and Password. In most cases, the defaults will work for your Dinerware installation.

2. Choose how often the software should poll or synchronize with the Dinerware POS system.

3. If you would like to override the TimeForge settings for early clock-in’s and late clock-out’s, or to enable staff members who are not scheduled to clock in (without manager approval), please check this box.

4. By default, TimeForge uses the time punch values from Dinerware. However, if you would like to circumvent the Dinerware time punches, and would prefer to use the TimeForge Attendance system and biometrics, then please un-check this option.

Set Up the Translator

media-1257999588059.png

Review the TimeForge Dinerware Bridge dashboard.

1. The Last Successful Sync Date shows the last date and time that the software was able to read from your Dinerware database.

2. The Last Synchronization shows the last date and time that a synchronization was attempted.

3. The Status shows the status of the last synchronization (it will either be SUCCESSFUL or FAILED).

4. The Next Synchronization shows the date and time of the next scheduled synchronization.

You are all done. TimeForge will synchronize your data based on the needs of your restaurant, and will keep the data in TimeForge and in Dinerware POS communicating properly.

Posted in Dinerware POS / No Comments.

How Do I Install TimeForge with Dinerware Point of Sale?

TimeForge can integrate with several Point of Sale systems, including Dinerware. Dinerware is a wonderful Point of Sale system, with dealers all over the world.

TimeForge integration with Dinerware involves installing the TimeForge Dinerware Bridge software on the Brain computer system.

The software will read and write to your Dinerware system as necessary, and can enforce your TimeForge schedules – preventing employees from riding the clock. Additionally, you can use the TimeForge Fingerprint scanner with Dinerware to allow biometric clock-in’s and clock-out’s.

Install the TimeForge Dinerware Bridge software

install-the-timeforge-dinerware-bridge-software.png

Begin installing the TimeForge Dinerware Bridge software.

Accept the EULA

accept-the-eula.png

Accept the terms of the End User License Agreement.

Choose a Directory to Install the Software

choose-a-directory-to-install-the-software.png

Choose a directory to install the TimeForge Dinerware Bridge. The default is usually correct.

Pick a Start Menu Folder

pick-a-start-menu-folder.png

Choose the Start Menu Folder to install the software.

Enter Your Web Service Username and Password

enter-your-web-service-username-and-password1.png

1. If you already have a TimeForge account, enter your Web Service Username and Password to connect with TimeForge.

A web service username and password is not the same as your TimeForge username (usually your email address), but is a secured username and password that allows the Dinerware TimeForge Bridge to communicate with TimeForge.

You can create a Web Service account by logging into your account, and go to the Settings for your location / store. You can then set your web service username and password.

2. If you do not yet have a TimeForge account, get started by creating a TimeForge account. We will create a Web Service Username and Password for you automatically.

Create a TimeForge Account

create-a-timeforge-account.png

If you need to create a TimeForge account, please fill out all of the fields, including your company name, first and last name, email address, password, and a password recovery answer.

We will automatically create your Web Service Username and Password for you.

Configure Dinerware Connection Settings

configure-dinerware-connection-settings.png

Set up the Dinerware database connection settings. Most likely, the default settings will work with your Dinerware installation.

All Done!

all-done.png

At this point, go ahead and run the TimeForge Bridge software.

Posted in Dinerware POS / No Comments.

What is a Web Service username and password, and how do I make one?

TimeForge uses web services to communicate with other third party applications. Web services are like a modern Comma Separated Value (CSV) files, and they allow TimeForge to communicate with other applications, such as Point of Sale systems, accounting products (such as Quickbooks), and stand alone time clocks.

To ensure that no one else can modify your data by using the TimeForge web services, you will need to create a Web Service username and password. We’ve made sure that this is easy to do, so you can quickly use the power of TimeForge with your 3rd party application.

First Navigate to the Settings Page for your Location or Store

first-navigate-to-the-settings-page-for-your-location-or-store.png

Locate the settings for your store / location.

Enable TimeForge Integration

enable-timeforge-integration.png

1. Make sure that the setting for “Would you like to enable TimeForge integration with another program?” is set to “Yes“.

2. Choose an appropriate username and password for the web service. This is specific to your location / store, and won’t be needed again. We recommend that you choose as long of a username and password as possible.

3. TimeForge will automatically send an email to managers if it cannot synchronize. This heartbeat functionality will ensure that TimeForge and 3rd party applications are running properly at your business.

By default, TimeForge permissions are controlled by the Connector/Translator or other 3rd party software.

Correctly Configured Web Service Username and Password

correctly-configured-web-service-username-and-password.png

After configuring the web service username and password, click on Save.

Enter Your Web Service Username and Password

enter-your-web-service-username-and-password.png

Enter your web service username and password, which you previously configured in the TimeForge web site.

Finish the Web Service Username and Password Setup

finish-the-web-service-username-and-password-setup.png

That’s it … you are done!

Posted in Setup Tab / 2 Comments

How do I add, edit, or delete Positions?

Adding, editing, and removing positions (also known as job codes in some industries) from within TimeForge is simple. Positions need to be created in order to schedule staff members.

Positions are automatically synchronized from some Point of Sale systems that TimeForge integrates with.

Get to the Employees Tab

get-to-the-employees-tab.png

First, navigate to the “Employees” tab.

Access the Position List Page

access-the-position-list-page.png

Select the “Edit Positions” link.

Add a New Position, or Choose an Existing Position to Edit

add-a-new-position-or-choose-an-existing-position-to-edit.png

You can choose to create a new position, or edit an existing position. Also displayed are the base pay rates and pay scales for each position.

Please note: In a multi-location (multiple unit) business, Positions must be created at the Corporate Level. Each location will have it’s own version of the position, so that base pay rates and sections can be customized on a per-store basis.

Modify the Appropriate Fields

modify-the-appropriate-fields.png

Fill in the appropriate fields. Each position must have a unique description, ie, no two positions can have the same description.

Other fields include the base pay rate and pay scale, which can include hourly or salaried, bi-weekly pay periods, and even one-time payments such as a live band or other entertainment. Choose an appropriate overtime calculation if desired.

If you are exporting payroll to a payroll system, you may need to include a Payroll identifier for the payroll company. Include this here as well.

Position Sections and Stations

position-sections-and-stations.png

Each position can have a number of sections or stations associated with it. This will allow you to schedule very specifically, if necessary.

A few examples of where this might be helpful:
- A Server position might have stations or sections for each grouping of tables, such as Section 1, Section 2, Section 3, etc..
- A LifeGuard position might have stations or sections for each lifeguard tower or chair, such as Dive Chair, Kiddie Pool, Lap Pool, etc…
- A Cook position might have stations or sections for each cooking position, such as Prep, Pizza, Grill, etc..

Multi-Level Pay Rates

multi-level-pay-rates.png

In some states and municipalities, staff members are paid different rates based on the time they arrive. TimeForge supports this by allowing you to enter different rates during different time periods throughout the day.

For example, if a Server shows up before your restaurant opens, the pay rate may be lower than when the restaurant is operating.

Deleting a Position

deleting-a-position.png

To remove a position, simply click on the “Delete” link. TimeForge will prompt for verification before removing the position.

Please Note: TimeForge will not allow you to remove a position if an upcoming schedule or template uses the position, or if an employee is currently clocked in with the position.

Posted in Employees Tab / No Comments.

What is a Position or Job Code?

TimeForge Positions are similar to Job Codes, Position Codes, or Job Descriptions that are available in many Point of Sale solutions. Employees can work one or more positions in the TimeForge system. Employees can work as many positions as necessary.

Each position can have its own name / description, pay rate (and pay scale), color (for drawing on graphs), and overtime calculation. In addition, positions can have Payroll Identifiers (for use in some payroll programs), stations / sections (useful when assigning shifts to employees), and multi-level pay rates.

- Stations / sections are used to identify areas of work for a specific position or job code. For example, a “Waiter” or “Server” Position might have several sections that correspond to tables at a restaurant, such as “Section 1“, “Section 2“, etc…
- Multi-level Pay Rates can be used to pay staff members at varied rates throughout the work day. For example, a “Waiter” or “Server” Position might receive a normal hourly rate of $2.13 from the hours of 10am and 11pm. However, prior to 10am, employees working as a Server may receive $7.35

When used at the Corporation Level within TimeForge, Positions are available at every location – however, each location / site / unit can have individual base pay rates, multi-level pay rates, sections / stations, overtime calculations, and colors. This functionality enables multi-unit concepts to easily perform labor management with a single, simple tool – TimeForge!

Position List

position-list.png

Every TimeForge account can have as many positions / job codes as necessary – there are no limits.

Position Information

position-information.png

Position information can easily be configured inside TimeForge, and each position can have an unlimited number of Stations / Sections, and Pay Rates.

Overtime calculations can be based on time and a half (1.5x), double time (2.0x), or California Overtime (a combination of 1.5x and 2.0x overtime).

Posted in General TimeForge / No Comments.

How Do I Enter Forecasts?

Using the Sales Module, labor schedules can be compared to Manager Projections, Actual Numbers, and System Generated Forecasts. After creating the necessary Sales Types, numeric values should be entered into the Manager Projections area. After the week (or day) is over, Actual Values from the Point of Sale system, Cash Register, Property Management System, or other revenue control system can be entered into the Actual Values area of the software.

Enter Manager Projections

enter-manager-projections.png

Manager Projections are typically the “gut feeling”, or estimates that you or managers create to project Sales Types. Projections can be entered by hour or quarter-hour, and daily and weekly summations are easily viewable.

Sales Forecasting is Extremely Easy

sales-forecasting-is-extremely-easy.png

As previously mentioned, Manager Projections can be entered by the hour, or by the quarter-hour. The hours shown will be dependent on any open / close hours that are currently defined for your location.

Sales Options

sales-options.png

A number of settings are available in the Sales Options, including:

- Allowing Supervisors to access the Sales Module
- Viewing Manager Projections and System Forecasts on the labor schedule
- Enforcing the labor ratios, which will disable the posting of schedules unless they meet the necessary labor ratio percentages

Posted in Forecasting/ Sales Tab / 1 Comment

« Previous Page

heartWhat some of our clients have to say ...

We are one year into it now, well past being enamored with the newness. We are married to TimeForge. It's as essential to us now as any of our management tools today, and we very happy about that.- Steve @ Hermosa Cyclery
We really like the program so far. I know that it is geared towards restaurants, but we are a real estate company and we love it because it is inexpensive and it is so easy to use.- Nicole @ Exit Premier Realty
The Timeforge scheduling system has not only increased our efficiency tremendously; decreased the errors in what is normally an error prone environment; it has also saved us ten times what it costs us each month.- Michael @ Tiara Cafe
I would highly recommend TimeForge to anyone making work schedules. ... What used to take 1-2 hours, now takes 15 minutes. The reports section is comprehensive and useful.- Lawrence Payne @ Mid Pacific Country Club
I've been really pleased with this latest version of TimeForge. I'm really getting familiar with this program and its become a great time saver! Keep up the good work!- Loren @ Fresh Produce
Before using TimeForge, creating a schedule took 2 hours. With TimeForge, it takes less than 10 minutes.- Gail @ Kerr Drug

Quick Contact

3417 73rd Street
Suite G
Lubbock, TX 79423

Phone: 1 866 684 7191
Fax: 1 866 684 7191
E-Mail: info@timeforge.com

 

About TimeForge

The best tools available for managing labor in the restaurant, retail, food-service, and hospitality industries. Includes time management, employee scheduling, and other labor management tools.

© 2010 Labor Management – TimeForge Manual | All Rights Reserved