Note: Identical Screenshots are available on Standard and Premium subscription plans; while Video Screencasts are only available on Premium Plan and is available as an add-on to the rest of the plans available.
Continuous video screencast is NOT available on ChromeOS Browser App.
TL;DR:
Enable the Screencasts feature to capture screenshots and video recordings of users' screens. Configure screenshot frequency, enable optional blurring, and manage permissions to control access. Identical screenshots are flagged automatically, with options to filter, download, and adjust timezone settings.
The Screencasts feature captures screenshots and video recordings while users work.
Configure Screencasts
- Open Settings / Users page.
- Enable Screencasts for individual users or use bulk edit to apply to multiple users.
- Select screenshot frequency from the dropdown menu.
Tip: Screenshots capture at random times within the chosen interval. For example, with a three-minute interval, screenshots may not capture exactly at 9:00 a.m., 9:03 a.m., 9:06 a.m., etc.
Starting or stopping the timer may affect screenshot timing.
Blur Screenshots
- Go to Settings / Company Settings page under Configuration.
- Enable Blur screenshots for all users or specific individuals.
- For individual users, toggle Blur Screenshots in Settings / Users page under the Blur Screenshots column.
Note: Video recordings cannot be blurred.
Set Viewing Permissions
- Open Settings / Company Settings page under Permissions.
- Adjust Who can see other people's screencasts.
- Only an Owner can define which access levels have screencast visibility.
Viewing Screencasts
- Open the Screencasts page.
- Select users and a date interval.
- Adjust screencast thumbnail size if necessary.
- Click any thumbnail to enlarge it and view Keyboard and Mouse Activity, displayed as average keystrokes and mouse movements per minute for the captured period.
Identical Screenshots
The system compares each new screenshot with the previous one. Identical screenshots indicate repetitive activity.
- Use the Identical Screenshots filter to display only repetitive screenshots and save review time.
Additional Options
On the Screencasts page:
- Change the timezone.
- Filter for low- or no-activity screencasts.
- Select and download screencasts.
Important Considerations
-
Permissions matter.
Only roles with delete‑screencast capability (Owners / Admins / Managers, depending on configuration) can delete. Regular Users without permission will see delete option disabled or not present. -
Data privacy.
If the screencast contains sensitive or private information, delete it as soon as possible to enforce privacy compliance. -
Irreversibility.
Deletion is typically permanent—ensure the correct item is selected before confirming.
Screencasts GDPR for UK/EU
To comply with GDPR regulations, changes have been made to the Screencast functionality, affecting both trial and paying customers.
Changes for Trial Customers
Screencast functionality is disabled by default and remains disabled until the user clicks "enable screencasts" on the Screencasts Page
While disabled, trial customers will observe the following:
- Screencasts Page: User will see an empty state, and screencast user settings will be disabled.
- Users Page:
- Invite Page: The screencast drop-down setting is disabled, accompanied by a tooltip explainer.
Experience for Existing Customers
Existing (non-trial) customers will experience no changes to the screencast page or disabled settings. Paid customers will not see the empty state or any disabled settings.
- Users Page: Existing customers will only see a message prompting them to acknowledge data compliance.
FAQ
What happens if a user uses multiple monitors?
Screencasts will capture and display content from all the connected monitors.
Can I unblur already blurred screenshot?
No, the blurring process is irreversible, to ensure privacy and security compliance.
How can I view downloaded Video Screencasts?
Time Doctor's video format is MPEG2 which can be played in all internet browsers except Mozilla Firefox.
Does the Identical Screenshots filter work with blurred screenshots as well?
Yes, this feature works for both blurred and unblurred screenshots.
Does the Identical Screenshots feature work with Screencast Videos?
No. This filter is limited to screenshots only.
How to delete screenshots?
-
Find the target screencast
Use user filter, date, or thumbnail/presentation view to locate the specific video or screenshot to delete. -
Delete the screencast
Click the Delete button (or trash‑can icon) associated with that screencast entry. -
Confirm deletion
When prompted, affirm that the screencast should be permanently removed.
Can regular users delete screenshots?
Yes, if "Can Edit Time" is enabled for the user.
Does Time Doctor take webcam shots?
No, this feature is not available.
Should there be any inconsistencies or concerns regarding the article, contact support@timedoctor.com for prompt assistance.