Key finding
A protocol comparing approval timestamps with invoice and payroll cutoffs.
Research question and scope
This protocol examines timesheet approval latency. It reports what one defined record can show in a fixed window and does not claim an industry rate or a causal effect.
Population and unit of analysis
The unit is one timesheet at period close. Using one unit keeps linked events from being counted as independent successes or failures.
Definitions and measures
The measure is the time from period end to approval. Publish the denominator and time window beside each count.
Evidence and data dictionary
Collect the period, approval time, and cutoff. Keep missing, unavailable, and confirmed negative as separate states.
Sampling and collection
The sample is timesheets from one quarter. Record the observation date and exclude items already open before the window.
Analysis and reporting
Report late approvals by client and approver. Separate client behavior from team behavior whenever the evidence supports it.
Limitations and sources of error
Limits include disputed hours and reissued timesheets. State them beside the finding and avoid turning a small sample into a universal standard.
Review cadence and next action
The next step is to move one recurring approval earlier. Re-test a later sample after the change.
Sources
Apply this research to your workflow
Use the protocol to define the records, review owner, and decision boundaries before work is delegated.
Discuss your workflow