For modern construction businesses to survive and thrive, investing in a data collection solution can set leaders up to make better strategic moves, bid more aggressively and improve jobsite decisions. Here’s why.
Increase Accuracy by Utilizing an All-Inclusive Data Collection App
Investing in an all-inclusive data collection app is the way of the future. It is convenient for workers to use, for managers to analyze and for the office to access information for billing and payroll.
Contractors can see improvements to their data collection processes, such as payroll, accounting, safety and equipment tracking, with an all-inclusive app. The technology simplifies the field workers’ process. Data collection is as easy as using an ATM or taking a selfie, taking only seconds to record critical information and share it with the back office.
Here’s an example: an employee logs into the jobsite and job code simply by opening their time tracking app on their smartphone, entering their pin code and then taking a picture of themselves. The app logs the time and place the picture was taken and when the employee logs out, the app asks for a progress update. With a simple answer, that can include a photo or video if necessary, the employee is ready to move onto the next task or head off the jobsite.
Collect Jobsite Activity Data
Data collection solutions allow contractors to gather valuable data points from across the business and use it for job costing, equipment usage reports and safety forms. There are simple yet effective ways to gather data from the information already being used on the jobsite, including the reports that accounting and operations use.
In a recent interview, Dennis Stejakal, the customer experience director at Sage Construction, discussed the importance of tracking RFI dates as a means to better understand cycle times and tighten up a budget. “There’s been numerous studies out there that have shown if you can improve that cycle time on that RFI, you’re going to improve the profitability of a job,” Stejskal said.
The RFI example shows that there is data to be had without having to change any technology. It just requires a concerted effort to collect and track the data. Look at all the systems with a critical eye. What isn’t being tracked? What would it show is it was tracked?
Build Data Collection Around the Client’s Experience
Construction firms can ease their clients’ concerns by proactively communicating with them throughout a project’s duration. Look at it through the lens of what these customers want to be assured of:
- is the project going according to schedule;
- is it on time; and
- is it within budget?
By continuously collecting data from the jobsite, construction managers and contractors will have immediate access to the information their clients want.
Start by collecting and analyzing data on the different tasks that need to be performed to complete the project. For example, two critical tasks on a hypothetical jobsite are to pour and set concrete for the foundation and then frame and wire the exterior and interior walls. Workers can enter their progress as they switch from task to task, so the management team receives real-time updates as the day goes on. If tasks are more complex, they can be broken into subtasks and sections as the project requires. This level of tracking gives up-to-date insight into what needs to be done to keep a project moving, and the progress completed on each task will provide clients with a real understanding of where the project stands.
Most people understand that construction is a high-risk venture and issues such as equipment delays are bound to occur. Staying on top of the project by collecting key information every day, ensures things stay on track. Clients will feel supported, knowing their projects are in good hands.
Always Ask “Why”?
Historically speaking, the success or failure of a project wouldn’t be known until after the project was completed and the next project started. When a construction job is known to be a huge success or a failure, the contractor can typically pinpoint what caused that outcome. But the conversation usually ends there. Companies need to gain a deep understanding of what makes a project a success or failure –– and data can help them do that.
If a project is over budget and late, the contractor may attribute this to delays on concrete pouring or deviations from the plan. If the contractor takes this as merely an opportunity to communicate better, he has learned nothing. Instead, if he looks into the data, he might discover that the time between an RFI opening and closing is too long, causing workers to stop production to get an answer or not wait for an answer and just move forward with their best guess. Now the contractor has a specific data point that can be pinpointed and needs to be improved. By asking “Why”? and looking into the data, the contractor can identify particular metrics to focus on that will improve future projects.
Think of 2021 as an opportunity to reset. The need for data is only continuing to climb. Set a goal to get started and know that investing the time and energy now will pay rewards down the line.
