How this calculation works
This calculator evaluates whether automating a task pays for itself by comparing all software and implementation expenses against the cash value of productive hours recovered.
Key formulas
- Gross monthly value: Hours saved per month multiplied by loaded hourly wage multiplied by your value capture rate.
- Net monthly benefit: Gross monthly value minus monthly software and maintenance subscription fees.
- Payback period: Upfront setup and development cost divided by net monthly benefit.
- Net benefit: Total cumulative labor value captured minus total cumulative outlays (setup plus monthly fees) over the evaluation period.
- Break-even monthly hours: Monthly software subscription cost divided by your effective loaded hourly wage.
Sources and benchmark dates
Fully loaded labor cost guidelines are based on the Bureau of Labor Statistics Employer Costs for Employee Compensation (ECEC) data, showing employer taxes and benefits average approximately 30% of total compensation (yielding a ~1.43x loaded multiplier on base wages). Workflow productivity estimates are informed by Project Management Institute and McKinsey digital automation research. Checked on 2026-10-12.
A planning estimate based on your inputs and the assumptions shown. Actual productivity gains depend on process adherence, integration reliability, and how freed time is reinvested.