Work on several computers simultaneously on one contract

[kadutskyi-mykola]

Hi, my work is not fully related to my computer because I do a lot of tests of applications on TVs. Also, I am planning to set up the second computer where I am going to test apps and website in different browsers. My concern is that due to low activity while testing on another pc or testing app on TV, I can lose tracked time. 

Can I at least run a time tracker on two computers so they track my activity for one particular contract from two computers so I won't lose tracked time? Am I violating any rules by doing that?

Also, do you have any ideas how to not to lose time while I test apps on TV?

Testing on TV means that I can stop doing anything on my computer for 5-10 minutes, so I can lose 10 minutes of tracked time. Or if I have low activity level I can lose hourly protection.

Thanks!

[yitwail]

Mykola, you almost certainly should not run time tracker simultaneously on 2 computers. As to testing apps on TV, do only as much as you need to, and get client permission for manual time entry.

[bstojadinovic]

Hi Mykola,

You can use time tracker on 2 computers but not at the same time, as John already mentioned. Your activity level is necessary for qualifying for Upwork’s Hourly Protection program, we suggest communicating about this with your client, and also about adding manual time which also doesn't qualify for payment protection. To learn more about payment protection see the article here.

[kadutskyi-mykola]

I am switching between computers back and forth and turn on and off trackers on both computres while working on one contract. What will happend if, accidentally, I will leave them both running? From what computer screenshots will be taken? Will it cause any problems in work diary? Is it against Upwork agreement? 

Thanks!

[versailles]

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@Mykola K wrote:

I am switching between computers back and forth and turn on and off trackers on both computres while working on one contract. What will happend if, accidentally, I will leave them both running?

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You would be suspended, or banned. Period (*).

What about virtual machines? Or casting the display from all computers to one?

(*) Unless you're a Hungarian translator with a keyboard.

[kadutskyi-mykola]

I actually have just checked how it will behave if I run tracker on several pcs. It just stopped tracker on the second computer and told me that multiple running trackers are detected. So you need to stop/run tracker when you switch between computers.

[versailles]

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@Mykola K wrote:

I actually have just checked how it will behave if I run tracker on several pcs. 

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 You are playing with fire. I wouldn't do that if I were you...

[kadutskyi-mykola]

Why not? I am just trying to simplify my work process. I understand Upwork's restirctions, but why should I waste time on useless things like turning off and on Upwork tracker whenever I switch to different pc.

[tlbp]

Because the Upwork fraud detection systems may not interpret your activity the same way you do. And, if that happens, it is likely that you will be banned from using Upwork. So, do you want to be efficient or paid? 

[prestonhunter]

Mykola, there are tasks for which the time-tracker is not appropriate. Yours is a great example of that.

Manual time or fixed-price.