How to Restrict Logging More Time Than the Estimate

Introduction

This guide shows how to prevent users from logging more time than what is estimated for a task. This restriction can be applied on a per-tracker basis. It helps teams control budgets and avoid over-reporting work.

Target Audience

Administrator

Prerequisites

Before starting, ensure you have:

Administrator access to Easy8
Tasks with estimated time values
Understanding of which trackers this should apply to

How to Restrict Logging Time Beyond the Estimate

Step 1: Go to Tracker Settings

Open the Global menu and go to Administration.
Click on Trackers.
Choose the tracker (e.g., Task, Bug, Feature) you want to restrict.

Step 2: Enable Time Limit Option

In the tracker detail view, scroll down.
Tick the checkbox “Limit spent time by estimated time”.

Limit spent time by estimated time checkbox

Step 3: Save the Settings

Click Save to apply the restriction for this tracker.

How It Works

When a new time entry would cause spent time to exceed the estimated time, the user will get a warning and the entry will be blocked.
If you try to change the tracker of an existing task from an unrestricted tracker to a restricted one (while the task already exceeds the estimate), the system will also block the change and show the same warning.

⚠️ Important Notes

Corner case: This setting is strict and applies immediately. We recommend enabling it only for trackers that are not frequently changed. Also be aware that some users may not see estimated or spent time due to permission settings — this may cause frustration if they are blocked without explanation.

Troubleshooting

Users can’t log time on certain tasks
→ Make sure the task has an estimated time and that the tracker does not already have more time logged than allowed.
Unexpected warning when changing tracker
→ Check if the task already exceeds its estimated time. If yes, you won’t be able to switch to a restricted tracker.

Conclusion

You have successfully restricted time logging beyond estimates for selected trackers. This helps keep task effort under control and supports accurate project tracking.