The 7 best electronic logbook software tools for 2023

Much of our knowledge of human history comes from written records: diaries, maps, newspapers, hieroglyphs, and logbooks.

Though you probably type more than you write, you may still keep personal and professional logbooks in the form of a daily planner, a to-do list, saved tax returns, or a car maintenance booklet. Logbooks are commonplace in technically complex industries, from aviation and engineering to manufacturing, logistics, the maritime industry, and even space tourism.

While hefty, leather-bound, paper logbooks were adequate for yesterday’s workers, the moving parts of today’s modern organizations require robust solutions like electronic logbook software. 

If you think of the piles of papers you’ve seen on an overwhelmed worker’s desk, it becomes obvious how paper logbooks not only lead to unnecessary clutter but also increase errors and disorganization. Whether you’re tracking food shipments in a local restaurant or overseeing hundreds of engineers, you need electronic logbook software.

Here are seven of the best electronic logbook software tools for your operation in 2023 and beyond.

1. Jotform

No matter what you’re tracking, you need to make sure logs are tailored to your needs and those of your business. For maximum customization, Jotform’s wide variety of log sheet templates are the solution. 

You can also use the wide variety of form templates from Jotform to collect information from employees, customers, and stakeholders. 

Jotform Mobile Forms allows for remote data input as well, either with or without an internet connection. Whether your employees need to log miles or your truckers need to track their hours, Jotform offers all the easy-to-fill templates you need to be more efficient. 

2. eLogger

Used by refineries, manufacturers, laboratories, paper mills, and other facilities throughout the world, this electronic logbook software program boasts a varied list of clients like Marathon Petroleum Corporation, the University of Virginia, and the city of Montreal. 

Users can customize eLogger for a variety of tasks, such as arranging data to view trends, creating specific reports, and following safety regulations. Other useful features include spell-checking, announcements, and employee reminders.

3. Everlance

Those who travel long distances for work usually maintain logs to track miles, stops, fuel, and more. That’s where Everlance comes in for both businesses and self-employed individuals. Dynamic enough for companies such as Anheuser-Busch and Panera Bread and simple enough for rideshare drivers, the log and mileage tracker helps drivers track expenses and report miles. 

It’s especially useful during tax season for creating reports that will be accepted by the IRS, detecting possible tax deductions, digitizing expense receipts, and tracking revenue — all while syncing to a bank or credit card. Plus, you can set up the app for both iOS and Android devices in under 10 minutes. A free basic plan logs 30 trips a month.

4. eRIS-LOG

This cloud-based electronic logbook goes beyond the limitations of paper by allowing users to attach videos and photos to entries. Workers can also create multiple logbooks and add custom labels to entries so they can quickly search for what they need. 

Because users can access the logbook using a mobile app, plant managers can effortlessly oversee shift logs and keep track of who has made entry changes. The program is available on a monthly or annual subscription and is especially helpful for supervisory control and data acquisition administrators.

5. LogBook

Operations managers in logistics, manufacturing, and electric power plants can’t afford to make mistakes. That’s why LogBook emphasizes simplicity (as its name suggests) in its features, such as the ability to standardize shift turnovers, chart data and trends, set reminders, customize indexing tags, and more. 

The software also integrates with existing systems and records, and relays machine data — while remaining easy to use on mobile devices as well as desktops.

6. ValGenesis eLog

Proving the versatility of electronic logbook software, ValGenesis maintains offices around the world to assist life sciences and manufacturing companies. Reducing the risk of human error that can plague paper logs, ValGenesis eLog works by scanning QR codes on equipment to keep track of when someone cleans, maintains, or handles it. 

The application works with or without an internet connection, allowing users to follow compliance requirements wherever they are. ValGenesis eLog is especially helpful for organizations that follow the Food and Drug Administration’s legal standard operating procedures for equipment.

7. Zip-ShiftBook

Managers of restaurants, hotels, or other facilities oversee multiple shift workers who juggle many different tasks. Plus, they have to keep customer satisfaction at the forefront of their efforts. Zip ShiftBook from Hubworks is a central destination for managers to oversee employee performance, examine shift notes, and detail customer experiences. 

Zip ShiftBook also integrates with ADP, Bank of America, and delivery platforms like Grubhub. And for those times when you do need paper, the software can create PDF reports. It’s part of a suite of management programs by Hubworks that restaurants and chains like Famous Dave’s and Jamba Juice use.

Keeping track

In the past, people made their memories and notes tangible and observable through the written word. Today, electronic logbook software tools give you more ways to measure — and, by extension, manage — all aspects of your business. Following the old adage that knowledge is power, these tools teach you more about your business, empowering you to make it even better.