In today’s world it’s all about getting accurate information as soon as possible. The emergence of mobile apps over the past decade has completely changed the way construction companies do business.

Some contractors may be reluctant to embrace mobile applications as a part of everyday operations, preferring to stick to the old way of doing things. One reason for this is implementation. How do construction firms actually implement a new mobile app into their workflow? What does the process look like? What are some of the challenges?

Challenges

Contractors who have only used their phones for communicating or who are not technically savvy may worry that adopting mobile technology could be too cumbersome. New technology can be intimidating because it is different. Contractors may also be a bit hesitant to embrace a mobile approach if they have been performing tasks a certain way for an extended period of time.

Tips to successfully implement mobile technology

Explain the benefits of the mobile technology including why the business is considering using mobile apps and the short term and long term benefits to using them. It is important to stress the benefits for the company and employees and to explain clearly how the mobile apps will make employees’ jobs easier.

• Get others to do the selling. Approach a few employees, such as a foreman or project manager, to help with the implementation. Train them in using the mobile apps, then have them train others. The goal is to make the learning process as comfortable as possible for all employees. By having them learn from individuals that they know and spend the most time with, they will be more comfortable asking questions and learning.
• Don’t give too much too fast. There always seems to be a mad dash to implement the mobile technology as soon as possible. Allow the employees adequate time to test out and learn the mobile app. A rushed implementation could potentially set back the project for months, if not derail it completely.
• Continue educating. After the mobile app has been implemented and employees are using it in the field, education isn't over. The learning doesn’t stop there. Have weekly or biweekly meetings discussing the implementation and how employees are handling the new technology. Discuss tips and shortcuts that can help improve the user experience. Ultimately it is important to always go back and talk about how using the app is helping the business and making jobs easier.
• Give mobile apps a try. The success or failure of a mobile app can never be determined if there is no attempt made to use it. Encouraging others to have an open mind about mobile technology helps. Ultimately, mobile app usage in construction is exploding for a reason: it works. Each month there are more and more firms offering mobile solutions to make construction workers more efficient than ever. Take advantage or risk getting left behind.