Is that repetitive task worth automating?
Estimate how much time a workflow could free up, what that time is worth, and when automation might pay back its costs. No signup. No spreadsheets. No inflated promises.
Your numbers. A clearer decision.
Start with the recurring task, then compare its potential time value against setup and operating costs.
Tell us what repeats
Change the example numbers to match your own task. Calculations update instantly.
Your potential return
Based entirely on your numbers — not a promise of savings.
After estimated monthly maintenance time
Want to explore automation?
If the numbers justify a small experiment, explore the basics before paying for software.
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Understand the estimate.
How the estimate works
- Gross monthly hours saved = weekly runs × minutes each ÷ 60 × 52 ÷ 12 × automatable percentage.
- Net time freed = gross monthly hours saved − monthly maintenance hours. Negative results are shown as zero for the time-freed headline.
- Monthly net time value = (gross hours saved − maintenance hours) × hourly value − monthly software cost.
- First-year net value = monthly net value × 12 − one-time setup cash cost − (setup hours × hourly value).
- Payback = total setup investment ÷ monthly net time value, only if the latter is positive.
- Return on costs = first-year net value ÷ (setup investment + 12 months of software and maintenance costs), where costs include the value of time.
For simplicity, the estimate assumes steady weekly volume across 52 weeks. It excludes taxes, errors, downtime, time spent learning, and changes in demand. Negative return values are possible.
Three checks that matter
Does time saved mean money saved?
Not automatically. Freed hours have an opportunity value, but cash savings only happen if expenses fall or those hours create measurable additional revenue.
Is the tool suitable for every process?
No. Variable, sensitive, low-frequency or high-risk tasks may require manual review. Start with a repeatable, low-risk workflow and verify each step.
Do you store my numbers?
No. The calculator runs locally in your browser and does not send the fields to our servers. Standard website analytics, if enabled, are covered by our privacy policy.
What should I do after calculating?
Try a small pilot with test data. Compare actual time and tool costs with your estimates after two or three weeks, then decide whether to expand.
Educational planning tool only — not financial or professional advice.