Harvest

Harvest

Dive into the world of time-tracking with our comprehensive review of Harvest – an innovative application that offers invoicing, expensing, and team management features. Ideal for freelancers and small businesses, Harvest is lauded for its excellent integration options and user-friendly interface. However, its lack of desktop apps for Windows or Linux and higher price point compared to similar apps are points of contention. Discover the features, pricing, and overall user experience of this handy tool in our detailed Harvest review.

Best for freelancers and small businesses

Usability

4/5

Value

3/5

features

4/5

support

4/5

Overview of Harvest Time-Tracking Software

Harvest is a robust time-tracking software that offers a comprehensive suite of features designed to streamline project management, invoicing, and team coordination. This software is an invaluable tool for freelancers, small businesses, and teams looking for an efficient way to track time, manage tasks, and bill clients.

At its core, Harvest is a time tracking app that allows users to easily monitor how much time they spend on various tasks throughout the day. This feature is not only easy to use but also provides detailed reporting that helps in understanding work patterns, optimizing productivity, and making informed business decisions.

One of the standout features of Harvest is its invoicing capability. It simplifies the process of creating, sending, and tracking invoices, making it easier for businesses to manage their billable hours and expenses. The software also supports integration with various payment gateways, providing clients with multiple payment options.

Good & Bad


Good

Includes time tracking, invoicing, expensing, and team management features

Available on macOS, iOS, and Android

Integrates with popular productivity apps and business tools

Generates reports and provides customizable graphs

Bad

No desktop apps for Windows or Linux

Does not offer employee monitoring tools

Prices are higher compared to other similar apps

Harvest also excels in project management. It enables users to set up projects, assign tasks to team members, and track the progress of each project. The software provides a visual representation of the project’s progress, making it easy to monitor deadlines, manage budgets, and keep the entire team on the same page.

Additionally, Harvest offers robust team management features. It allows team leaders to monitor the time spent by each team member on various tasks, ensuring efficient use of resources. It also facilitates easy communication and collaboration among team members, fostering a productive work environment.

Despite its extensive features, Harvest is known for its user-friendly interface. It offers a seamless user experience, with intuitive navigation and clear, easy-to-understand instructions. This makes it easy even for those who are not tech-savvy to get started with the software and make the most of its features.

Overall, Harvest is a comprehensive time-tracking software that offers a wide range of features to help businesses manage their time, tasks, and teams more efficiently. It is a reliable tool that not only simplifies time tracking and invoicing but also enhances project management and team collaboration.

Key Features and Functionality of Harvest App

Harvest App is a versatile tool that provides an array of features designed to streamline your workflow and improve productivity. It is more than just a time-tracking app; it’s a comprehensive system that handles invoicing, expensing, and team collaboration efficiently.

Time Tracking and Expense Management

The primary function of Harvest is its highly accurate timer. This feature enables you to track the time spent on various tasks, making it easier to bill clients accurately. You can start and stop the timer manually or set it to run in the background while you work.

Additionally, Harvest allows you to log expenses and attach receipts, helping you keep track of your spending. This feature is particularly useful for freelancers and small businesses that need to monitor their costs closely.

Invoice Generation

One of the standout features of Harvest is its ability to generate invoices based on the time and expenses logged. You can create professional-looking invoices in a matter of minutes and send them directly to your clients from the app. This feature simplifies the billing process and helps ensure you get paid for all your work.

Team Collaboration

Harvest also includes tools for team collaboration. You can invite your employees to join your workspace, assign them tasks, and monitor their progress. The app provides insights into how each team member is spending their time, which can be useful for identifying inefficiencies and improving productivity.

Integration Options

Harvest integrates seamlessly with a wide range of other apps and tools. This makes it easy to incorporate Harvest into your existing workflow. Whether you’re using productivity apps, communication tools, or other business software, chances are Harvest can integrate with them.

Pricing Plans

Harvest offers a free plan with limited features, as well as two paid plans: Solo and Team. The Solo plan costs $12 per month and is designed for individuals, while the Team plan costs $12 per person per month and is intended for teams of two or more. Harvest also offers a 30-day free trial for the Team plan, allowing you to test out the app’s features before committing to a paid plan.

In conclusion, Harvest is a feature-rich app that offers a wide range of tools to help you track your time, manage your expenses, generate invoices, and collaborate with your team. While it may be more expensive than some of its competitors, its robust feature set and seamless integration options make it a worthy investment for many freelancers and small businesses.

Harvest Integration with Other Business Tools

One of the key strengths of Harvest is its ability to seamlessly blend with a variety of other business tools. This ease of integration makes it a versatile choice for businesses looking for a time-tracking solution that can effortlessly sync with their existing digital infrastructure.

Harvest’s compatibility with productivity apps and other business tools is noteworthy. This integration capability is a significant advantage for businesses aiming to streamline their operations and maintain a cohesive digital ecosystem. By integrating Harvest with other tools, businesses can ensure a smooth flow of data across platforms, thereby enhancing the efficiency of their processes.

Moreover, Harvest provides an API for creating custom integrations. This feature allows businesses to tailor the tool’s functionality to their specific needs, offering a level of customization that is not commonly found in many other time-tracking apps. This capability to create custom integrations can be a game-changer for businesses that have unique operational requirements.

Furthermore, Harvest’s integration options extend to automation platforms such as Zapier and IFTTT. These platforms can be used to create automated workflows involving Harvest, thereby reducing manual effort and increasing operational efficiency. By automating routine tasks, businesses can free up valuable time that can be better spent on more strategic initiatives.

In summary, Harvest’s strong integration capabilities make it a flexible and adaptable tool that can easily fit into any business’s digital toolkit. Whether it’s syncing with productivity apps, customizing integrations through the API, or automating workflows with Zapier and IFTTT, Harvest provides businesses with the flexibility they need to optimize their operations.

Evaluating the Pricing and Plans of Harvest

As part of our Harvest review, it’s essential to delve into the pricing and plans offered by this time-tracking app. Harvest’s pricing structure is divided into two main categories: Solo and Team. The Solo plan is designed for individuals and is priced at $12 per month. On the other hand, the Team plan caters to groups of two or more and is also priced at $12 per person per month.

Harvest also offers a 10 percent discount for those who opt for annual contracts, providing a cost-effective option for long-term users. Additionally, there is a 30-day free trial available for the Team plan, allowing potential users to test out the app’s features before committing to a paid plan.

When compared to other time-tracking and invoicing apps, Harvest’s pricing is on the higher side. For instance, other apps such as Toggl and Hubstaff come at a lower cost. However, when compared to more extensive project management apps like Zoho Projects and Wrike, Harvest’s pricing falls in the average or lower range.

Setting up an account with Harvest requires some time due to the need to customize your workspace, set up clients and projects, and invite team members. The primary interface for Harvest is the web app, but it also comes with apps for macOS, iOS, and Android. Unfortunately, Windows and Linux users do not have access to these apps.

Harvest provides more features than Toggl, including invoicing, expenses, projects, and teams. It also has tools for managing expenses and tracking how team members spend their time. However, Harvest does not offer employee monitoring tools like screen recording or keystroke logging.

A significant strength of Harvest is its integration options. It supports a wide range of productivity apps and business tools, and there’s an API for creating custom integrations. Zapier and IFTTT can also be used for creating integrations and automations.

In conclusion, Harvest presents a robust time-tracking app for those who require invoicing and expensing tools, as well as light team management features. It is user-friendly and integrates well with other apps. However, it may be more costly than some competitors and does not offer desktop apps for Windows or Linux.

User Experiences and Reviews of Harvest Software

Harvest has been widely appreciated by freelancers and small teams for its time-tracking capabilities. Users have praised its user-friendly interface and the ease with which they can track their work hours. The invoicing and expensing features are also noted as being straightforward and simple to use.

User Reviews

  • One user stated that Harvest is a “lifesaver for tracking time and keeping projects on schedule.” They also appreciated the detailed reports that the software generates.
  • Another user, a freelancer, appreciated the invoicing feature, stating that it “saves a lot of time and helps me keep track of my earnings.”
  • A small team leader found the team management feature to be extremely helpful. They said, “It helps me know how much time my team is spending on each project, which aids in resource allocation.”

However, not all reviews about Harvest are positive. Some users have mentioned that the lack of a desktop app for Windows and Linux is a significant drawback. Others have noted that the cost of the software is relatively high compared to other similar apps.

User Experiences

Many users have found Harvest easy to set up and customize according to their needs. The web app interface is generally considered intuitive and user-friendly. Users have also appreciated the integration options that Harvest provides, allowing them to connect with a wide range of other apps and business tools.

Despite the positive experiences, some users have expressed their dissatisfaction with the lack of employee monitoring tools like screen recording or keystroke logging. They feel that these features would provide a more comprehensive view of how their team members are spending their time.

In conclusion, Harvest has received mixed reviews from its users. While many appreciate its time-tracking, invoicing, and expensing features, others are dissatisfied with the lack of certain features and the relatively high cost. However, the overall user experience seems to be positive, with many users finding the software easy to use and helpful in managing their work.

Overview of Harvest’s Key Features, Pricing, and Limitations

Harvest is a comprehensive time-tracking application that offers a variety of features, including invoicing, expensing, and team management. It is known for its ease of use and extensive integration options, making it a popular choice for freelancers and small businesses. However, it comes at a relatively high cost compared to similar apps and does not offer desktop applications for Windows or Linux users. Below is a table summarizing the key features, pricing, and other considerations for Harvest.
Feature Description
Platform Web application, macOS, iOS, Android
Pricing Solo plan at $12/month, Team plan at $12/person/month with discounts for annual contracts
Free Trial Available for 30 days for the Team account
Key Features Invoicing, expensing, time tracking, project management
Integration Options Supports a wide range of productivity apps and business tools, API available for custom integrations
Limitations No desktop apps for Windows or Linux, relatively high cost compared to similar apps
In conclusion, Harvest offers a robust set of features that can greatly benefit freelancers and small businesses. Despite its higher cost and lack of desktop apps for Windows or Linux, its ease of use and integration capabilities make it a strong contender in the time-tracking app market. However, potential users should carefully consider their specific needs and budget before committing to this service.

FAQ

What is the primary function of Harvest software?

The primary function of Harvest software is to track time, with additional features for invoicing, expensing and team management. It is designed to support freelancers and small businesses in managing their work and finances.

What makes Harvest a suitable choice for freelancers and small businesses?

Harvest is a suitable choice for freelancers and small businesses due to its comprehensive features that are specifically designed to meet their needs. It offers a robust time-tracking tool, invoicing, expensing, and team management features that simplify business processes. The app also has excellent integration options with other productivity apps and business tools, making it a versatile tool for managing various aspects of the business. Despite being slightly more expensive than its competitors, Harvest provides value for money with its in-depth features and ease of use. However, it’s worth noting that it does not have desktop apps for Windows or Linux.

How does Harvest’s pricing compare to other similar time-tracking apps?

Harvest’s pricing is generally higher compared to other similar time-tracking and invoicing apps like Toggl and Hubstaff. However, when compared to more comprehensive project management apps such as Zoho Projects and Wrike, Harvest’s pricing is average or even lower. The cost for Harvest’s Solo plan is $12 per month, and the Team plan is $12 per person per month. There is a 10% discount for annual contracts. Despite being more expensive, Harvest offers more features including invoicing, expenses, projects, and teams, and has excellent integration options.

What platforms does Harvest support and are there any limitations?

Harvest supports web-based use along with apps for macOS, iOS, and Android. It also offers a browser extension for easier task recording. However, there are no desktop apps available for Windows or Linux users.

Can you explain the integration capabilities of Harvest with other productivity apps and business tools?

Harvest boasts robust integration capabilities with a variety of productivity apps and business tools. It supports direct integrations with project management tools like Asana, Trello, and Basecamp, as well as accounting software such as QuickBooks and Xero. Additionally, it integrates with productivity tools like Google Calendar and Slack. For more complex or unique integration needs, Harvest provides an API that allows for custom integrations. Users can also utilize automation platforms like Zapier and IFTTT to create their own workflows and connections between Harvest and other software they use. These integrations allow users to seamlessly incorporate Harvest’s time-tracking and invoicing features into their existing work processes.

What kind of reports and graphs can Harvest generate for tracking time and capacity?

Harvest can generate a variety of reports and graphs for tracking time and capacity. This includes detailed time reports showing the hours worked by each team member on different tasks and projects. It also includes capacity reports that show how much work each team member has capacity for and how much they are currently assigned. Visual graphs can show trends over time, helping to identify periods of high or low productivity. These reports and graphs can be customized and filtered to meet specific needs, and they can be exported for further analysis or shared with others.

Does Harvest offer any employee monitoring tools?

No, Harvest does not offer any employee monitoring tools such as screen recording or keystroke logging.

How does Harvest handle invoicing and expenses?

Harvest includes a comprehensive invoicing feature that allows users to create, send, and manage invoices directly within the app. Users can quickly generate invoices based on tracked time and expenses, customize the appearance and content of their invoices, and set up automatic payment reminders. Harvest also supports online payments via PayPal and Stripe, making it easier for clients to pay their invoices. As for expenses, Harvest allows users to track expenses for specific projects and categorise them for easier organization. Users can also attach receipts to their expenses by taking a photo with the Harvest app on their mobile device. This makes it easy to keep track of all the costs associated with a project and include them in the client’s invoice.

What are the main differences between the Free, Solo, and Team plans offered by Harvest?

The Free plan from Harvest allows only one user and two projects at a time. It offers basic time tracking and reporting features. The Solo plan, which costs $12 per month, allows one user but an unlimited number of projects. It includes all features such as time and expense tracking, invoicing, and reporting. The Team plan, on the other hand, is designed for teams of two or more and costs $12 per person per month. It offers all the features of the Solo plan plus team scheduling and time management tools. Additionally, there are discounts for annual contracts and a 30-day free trial is available for the Team plan.

What are some of the standout features of Harvest that set it apart from its competitors?

Harvest stands out from its competitors in several ways. Firstly, it offers more comprehensive features than many time-tracking apps, including invoicing, expenses, projects, and teams management. It also has robust integration options with a wide range of productivity apps and business tools, and an API for creating custom integrations. This makes Harvest highly adaptable and flexible for different business needs. Additionally, Harvest’s interface is user-friendly, making it easy to use even for those who are not tech-savvy. However, it’s worth noting that Harvest is more expensive than some of its competitors and does not have desktop apps for Windows or Linux.

Does Harvest offer any data export options after the subscription ends?

Yes, Harvest allows users to export their data even after the subscription ends. This ensures that users have access to their important information and records.

How does Harvest handle changes in team size, especially in terms of billing?

Harvest is flexible when it comes to changes in team size. If your team grows, you can easily add new members to your Harvest account at a cost of $12 per person per month under the Team plan. If your team shrinks, you can remove members from your account, and your billing will be adjusted accordingly. Harvest only charges for active users, so you won’t be billed for team members who are not using the service.

Does Harvest offer any discounts or special offers for teams?

Yes, Harvest offers a 10 percent discount for annual contracts. Additionally, a 30-day free trial is available for the Team account.

What measures does Harvest have in place to protect user data?

Harvest ensures user data protection through several measures. It uses secure server infrastructure hosted at Tier III, SSAE-16, SOC 1 & 2 compliant data centers. Data transmission is encrypted using Secure Socket Layer (SSL) technology. Harvest also conducts regular security audits and vulnerability scanning to ensure the integrity and safety of user data. Furthermore, Harvest is compliant with the General Data Protection Regulation (GDPR), providing additional assurance of data privacy and security.

Can you explain the process of setting up and getting started with Harvest?

Setting up and getting started with Harvest involves a few steps. First, go to the Harvest website and sign up for an account. You can choose between a free plan or one of the paid plans depending on your needs. After creating an account, you will be directed to your workspace. Here, you can customize your settings, such as your business name and logo.The next step is to establish your clients and projects. You can add a new client by clicking on the ‘Clients’ tab and then ‘New Client’. You will need to fill in details like the client’s name and contact information. To create a new project, go to the ‘Projects’ tab and click on ‘New Project’. You will need to provide information like the project name, client, and billing method.If you are using Harvest with a team, you will need to invite your team members. Go to the ‘Team’ tab and click on ‘Invite Team Members’. You can add their email addresses and they will receive an invitation to join your Harvest workspace.Once everything is set up, you can start tracking time. You can do this either through the web app, the Harvest apps for macOS, iOS, and Android, or the Harvest browser extension. To record a task, simply select the project and task, then click the ‘Start Timer’ button. You can also manually enter time if you prefer.Besides time tracking, Harvest also offers features for invoicing, managing expenses, and light team management. You can create and send invoices to your clients, record your business expenses, and monitor how your team members are spending their time. Remember to explore Harvest’s integration options to enhance your productivity. It supports a wide range of apps and business tools, and you can also use Zapier and IFTTT to create custom integrations and automations.Overall, setting up and getting started with Harvest may take some time, but it is a straightforward process. Its user-friendly interface and comprehensive features make it a valuable tool for freelancers and small businesses.