Overview
Basecamp does not include native time tracking features, as the platform focuses on effective project management and team collaboration through a deliberately simplified interface. However, teams needing time tracking can integrate external tools that connect with Basecamp projects and to-dos.
Popular Basecamp Time Tracking Integrations
Harvest - The most popular Basecamp time tracking integration, offering:
- Track time directly on Basecamp to-dos
- Automatic project and task sync from Basecamp
- Invoice generation from Basecamp project time
- Browser extension for one-click time tracking
TrackingTime - Provides Basecamp integration enabling:
- Time tracking on Basecamp projects and to-dos
- Sync Basecamp structure to TrackingTime
- Team time reports by Basecamp project
- Automated timesheet generation
Everhour - Connects with Basecamp for:
- Time tracking embedded in Basecamp interface via browser extension
- Budget tracking against Basecamp projects
- Team scheduling and resource planning
- Detailed time reports and analytics
Toggl Track - Offers Basecamp integration through:
- Browser extension for tracking Basecamp tasks
- Project mapping from Basecamp
- Simple reporting on Basecamp project time
How Integrations Work
- Connect Basecamp Account - Authorize time tracking tool to access Basecamp
- Sync Projects - Import Basecamp projects and to-dos into time tracking tool
- Track Time - Use browser extension or tool interface to track time on Basecamp items
- View Reports - Analyze time data in the time tracking application
- Bill Clients - Generate invoices from tracked Basecamp project hours
Basecamp's Philosophy
Basecamp intentionally excludes time tracking to maintain simplicity and avoid feature bloat. The company believes most teams don't need time tracking for effective project management, and those that do can add it via integrations.
Integration Considerations
- Separate Subscription - Requires paying for both Basecamp and time tracking tool
- External Reporting - Time reports live in tracking tool, not Basecamp
- Browser Extensions - Best experience often requires browser add-ons
- Data Sync - Changes to Basecamp projects may need manual sync
Best Practices
For teams using Basecamp needing time tracking:
- Choose Harvest if invoicing is critical
- Use Everhour for embedded Basecamp tracking experience
- Select TrackingTime for 60+ additional tool integrations
- Pick Toggl Track for simplicity and ease of use
Teams requiring native time tracking within their project management tool often consider alternatives like:
- Asana with time tracking integrations
- ClickUp with built-in time tracking
- Wrike with native time tracking
- Monday.com with time tracking columns
