How NHS National Services Scotland improved time tracking and project management with Crown

The challenge

The workforce management
challenge at NSS

NHS National Services Scotland (NSS), whose roots include the former Scottish Healthcare Supplies division of the Common Services Agency, needed a reliable and flexible workforce management system to handle time, attendance and billing.

With around 100 employees based in Edinburgh and remote staff spread across Scotland, NSS required
a solution that could support flexitime, streamline timesheet entry and ensure every block of time was accurately accounted for against project numbers.

After experiencing technical difficulties with a previous supplier, NSS took a cautious approach to selecting a new provider. They needed a trusted system with proven reliability, flexibility and robust training and support.

The solution

Crown’s flexible, modular solution

The first implementation phase introduced a Time and Attendance system for 110 employees, complete with both web and wall clocking functions. Crown’s on-site training in Edinburgh ensured staff were confident using the new system from day one.

“We found Crown’s approach to project management and support, and their emphasis on training, crucial in the successful implementation of the Crown package.”
- Margaret Wallace, Assistant Director

Crown’s training and support package provided reassurance and stability following NSS’s earlier challenges with other suppliers. The new system’s design also gave NSS the ability to add further functionality as needs evolved.

The results

The results – Improved accuracy and streamlined processes

The introduction of Crown has transformed time tracking at NSS. With electronic timesheets replacing manual entry, employees can now allocate time directly to project numbers, ensuring faster, more accurate billing and activity reporting.

The system’s flexitime management has helped NSS maintain productivity and control costs while supporting a flexible working model for staff.

“Flexibility is the key to successfully managing a workforce, and with business becoming ever more competitive, it is vital to improve productivity and maintain strict control over costs.”
- Mike Hawkesford, Managing Director