The construction industry has been undergoing a technological transformation, with mobile apps becoming indispensable tools for contractors. Whether you're a seasoned construction veteran or a newcomer to the industry, integrating apps can help streamline operations, enhance communication and bolster productivity.
1. Workyard: Time Tracking Simplified
Workyard construction time tracking software creates accurate timesheets using the industry’s most precise GPS tracking system. For contractors, managing time is as crucial as managing tasks. Workyard provides up-to-the-minute views of real-time labor cost, helps improves accuracy of client billing and helps you breakdown the costs of past jobs to improve future bids. “My guys see how all of this is benefiting them and making us more profitable” said Bill Kapaldo, President of Construction Punch Service, in a case study. “So I know if I ask them to track of something, they’re going to do it.”
2. Raken: Seamless Daily Reporting
Raken streamlines the daily reporting process. Its easy-to-use interface allows for real-time communication between the field and the office. With features such as timecards, production tracking, and safety monitoring, Raken ensures that teams are on the same page every day. When Fortis Construction had a problem with lack of cohesion between those in the office and those with “boots on the ground” in the field, they turned to Raken. “Our superintendents and foremen love using Raken,” Tara Messa, Director of Operations Technology & Integrations with Fortis, said in a case study. “Primarily, it empowers them to do their job out in the field.”
3. Procore: All-in-One Construction Management
Procore offers a holistic approach to construction management. Its features span from project management to financials, ensuring real-time collaboration between all stakeholders. With Procore, contractors can manage blueprints, RFIs, punch lists, and daily reports all from one platform. Juneau, a well-known construction company operating across the southern United States, started seeing major growth in 2016 but was still using paper and basic programs like Word and Excel for document management. The company turned to Procore to provide a united and scalable platform that could grow business needs. “Simplifying a process is huge for us because there's so much that goes into what we do as contractors,” Greg Cornwell, Vice President of Operations at Juneau, said in a case study.
4. Fieldwire: Task Management Perfected
Fieldwire focuses on task management, allowing contractors to assign tasks, set priorities, and track progress with ease. With its built-in blueprint viewer, teams can link tasks directly to plans, ensuring clarity on the job site. Gone are the days of lugging blueprints and plans from one site to another. Fieldwire has helped some of the largest construction companies more easily manage more than 1 million projects worldwide. James E. Harris Construction Co., INC. started using the app to help with communication and management of their construction jobs. At the time, the company was using a paper system that often resulted in project delays as finding documents and getting files in the right hands was cumbersome. “Before Fieldwire we were hectic,” Dalton Hicks, Project Foreman at JEH, said in a customer spotlight. “We didn’t have any way to mark progress.”
5. BuilderTREND: Client Communication Centralized
BuilderTREND bridges the gap between contractors and clients. This platform not only assists with project management and scheduling but also provides a portal for clients. Through this portal, clients can check progress, approve variations, and communicate directly with the team, making the construction process transparent and collaborative. Build for the modern builder, there is something for every company to use right away and then scale up as needed when additional services are needed. “For custom builders like us, it helps bring in all the stakeholders of a project to reduce miscommunication and rework. Clients, architects and subs can all be informed. Everyone’s always in the loop,” Eric Pierce, co-owner of Color Houses, said in a case study.
Incorporating Apps into Your Workflow
While these apps offer cutting-edge features to enhance construction operations, it's vital to consider a few things:
- Training: Ensure your team is adequately trained. Most apps offer tutorials or customer support to help with the transition.
- Compatibility: Check that the apps are compatible with the devices your team uses, whether iOS, Android, or desktop.
- Integration: Some apps can integrate with other software or tools you use. This interoperability can further streamline operations.
Final thoughts
The construction industry is rapidly evolving, and embracing technological tools is no longer an option but a necessity. By incorporating these top apps into your workflow, you're not just staying current but also optimizing your operations, ensuring satisfied clients, timely projects, and maximized profits.
