Definition: A Timestamp records the exact date and time an event occurs in a digital system, enabling precise tracking of actions, transactions, or process steps.
Importance in Operations:
Audit Trails: Log events for compliance, security, and accountability.
Process Tracking: Monitor step-by-step execution time in workflows.
Performance Metrics: Measure durations between key events (e.g., request to resolution).
Applications of Timestamps:
Software Systems: Track user logins, file changes, or system errors.
Manufacturing and Logistics: Log production stages or shipping milestones.
Workforce Management: Record clock-in/clock-out times and task durations.
Best Practices:
Standard Time Format: Use ISO 8601 or UTC to maintain consistency across systems.
Secure Storage: Ensure timestamp logs are tamper-proof for legal and operational integrity.
Automated Capture: Avoid manual entry to enhance accuracy and reliability.