The terms polychronic and monochronic are used to describe how we understand and use time as well as how time affects our attitudes, behaviours and communication as identified by Edward T. Hall. Take a look at this side by side comparison of the key traits of a polychronic person and a monochronic person to see which one best suits your personality.

Monochronic: One thing at a time, Rigid approach to time, Strict agenda, Focus on task, Completion of job most important, Emphasise promptness

Polychronic: Multiple activities at once, Flexible approach to time, Focus on relationship, Relationships more important than the job

Promptness based on relationships

So, which one sounds like you? What about the employees in your organisation? Where do you think they fit in?

With insights about the working preferences of their employees – whether they are polychronic, monochronic or even something else entirely, decision makers can assist employees to make the best and most efficient use of their time – whether they choose to work on a single project from start to finish, or split up time with a variety of tasks, or otherwise – and improve business processes.

Undoubtedly, the ability to accurately manage employee performance (individuals and teams) and cost jobs properly is important to any business as it allows decision makers to measure the capacity and efficiency of your teams and employees, and make better decisions based on that.

With Mitrefinch Time allocation and job costing you can plan tasks across multiple cost centres, compare planned tasks and budgets with those achieved, and track projects by hours, quantity, or cost.