If you want to track hours spent on inquiries, which setup is appropriate?

• A. Track hours by adding a time tracking column with automations to start on 'working on it' and stop on 'done'.
• B. Track days by automatically setting the start and end date.
• C. Use a separate spreadsheet to log hours.
• D. Only use a manual timesheet without automation.

Answer: (A)

Tracking hours spent on inquiries works best when time capture is built directly into the item and automated around its workflow. A time tracking column records the actual work time against that specific inquiry, and automations can start the timer when you move the status to “working on it” and stop it when you move it to “done.” This ensures hours are counted only while active on the item, provides a running total for reporting, and keeps all data in one place without extra manual steps. It also scales across multiple sessions and assignees, so you get a reliable view of effort per inquiry.

Other options fall short in different ways. Tracking days with start and end dates doesn’t give you granular hours, only duration in days. Using a separate spreadsheet risks data duplication and misalignment with the actual items. A manual timesheet without automation invites forgotten entries and errors, reducing accuracy and forcing extra reconciliation work.