Time and attendance systems are sold directly from vendors or through resellers. Vendors typically handle large profits themselves and pass smaller companies to local value-added resellers (VARs) who handle sales, installation and training.

Vendors can be divided into four types:

1. Manufacturers - companies that manufacture time clocks and sell time and attendance software to supplement the hardware devices.

2. Resellers - companies that sell the time clocks and software developed by manufacturers. The focus of these companies is in supplying customized solutions and support that may not be available from the manufacturers.

3. Specialized Software vendors - these companies focus on developing time and attendance software solutions.

4. Enterprise Software vendors - these companies develop general HRIS applications that include time and attendance modules. In some cases the time and attendance software will be sold apart from the HRIS.

Begin the purchasing process by analyzing manufacturers. Make sure the companies you are choosing have the resources to support and continue building your business. Moreover, the company should be ready to sustain the product line you’re purchasing. Moreover, you should learn as much as you can about the company's reputation and financial stability.

If you are satisfied with the product manufacturer, focus on choosing a reseller with relevant proficiency level. Some will specialize in time and attendance software or human resource-related systems, while others will take a more "jack of all trades" approach. While neither is inherently better, it is always better to work with a company that has extensive experience in the application that you want installed.

When considering VARs, ask how long they have worked with the product that you are interested in, and how much of their business it represents. This can help you evaluate their commitment to the software you are considering. Inquiring about the VAR's opinion on how responsive the system manufacturer is to issues can also be helpful when choosing a system. When checking references, make sure to inquire about all phases of implementation including installation, training and support.