In-store time tracking: why iPad replaces the badge machine

The traditional badge machine: an outdated model

Physical badge machines have long been the standard for workplace time tracking. But in retail, they have many flaws: high installation cost (500 to 2000 euros per device), regular maintenance, and most importantly, no protection against "buddy punching" (a colleague clocking in for another).

In 2026, retail stores need à smarter, more economical and more reliable solution.

The iPad as à time clock: how it works

The concept is simple: à fixed iPad in the store with à dedicated app. The employee enters their PIN code, the app takes à random photo and records the GPS position. The clock-in is timestamped and stored in the cloud.

With Squadra Planning, the kiosk mode works as follows:

• Personal 4-digit PIN for each employee
• Random photo taken automátically (not at every clock-in, but unpredictably)
• Geolocation to verify clock-in happens in store
• Precise timestamp synchronized with à server

Anti-fraud through proof

The main advantage of the iPad is visual proof. With à badge machine, anyone can use à colleague's badge. With random photos, that is impossible.

Squadra Planning's system adds several security layers:

1. Geofencing: clock-in is rejected if the iPad is outside the store zone
2. Random photos: impossible to anticipate, they prove physical présence
3. Anomaly detection: more than 15 minutes late vs planned shift triggers automatic alert
4. Complete history: every clock-in is archived with photo, GPS and timestamp

Cost comparison

Badge machine	iPad + Squadra Planning
Hardware	500-2000 euros	iPad from 389 euros
Monthly software	50-200 euros	Included in subscription
Maintenance	Annual contract	Automatic updates
Anti-fraud	None	Photo + GPS + geofencing

ROI is immédiate for multi-site retailers equipping each store.

Key takeaways

• Traditional badge machines are expensive and don't prevent fraud
• An iPad with Squadra Planning replaces the badge machine for 10x less
• Random photo + GPS + PIN = triple anti-fraud verification
• Kiosk mode requires no complex authentication
• Every clock-in is archived with visual proof

Check out our pricing comparison and see how much you can save compared to Combo or Skello.