Taurus Projects Blog Why More Contractors Are Using Smartphones and Tablets on the Construction Site

Smartphones and tablets have become part of everyday life and their presence is increasing on construction sites. With the help of mobile devices, project managers, architects and other workers can actively manage all processes and information involved with their projects. Using mobile technology is a sound financial decision as it saves money and increases productivity thereby allowing companies to stay competitive in the market. By using mobile apps, contractors can complete a wide range of functions such as project management, invitations to bid, building information modeling (BIM), accounting, customer relationship management and estimating. Here are some benefits to introducing and using mobile technology in your construction business. 1. Better communication and fewer errorsMobility improves communication as employees on a jobsite can share data and pictures. Field staff and office staff can stay connected and updated with the most current information. By using mobile apps, the need for paper files is eliminated. Papers aren't lost and equipment is less likely to go missing. The need for reworks decreases as errors that lead to reworks are reduced. A team is able to collaborate efficiently through the use of digital technology and costs are lowered. 2. Greater efficiencyEveryone can work together on the same sources of information no matter where they are located. Some of the top uses for mobile technology include accessing customer and job information, drawings, schedules, photos and documents, daily field reports, job cost and project reports. Opportunities exist for foremen and project managers to request repairs or new equipment and project delays can be avoided. Work can be delegated and changes can be made immediately. All information related to a project can be uploaded to a document management system which puts everyone on the same page.]3. Real time analyticsGone are the days when reports were created after the daily job was finished. Foremen can use real time reporting to keep track of their teams, field conditions and project costs. Managers can predict problems and/or corrections and immediate action can be taken. If data is collected in an organized fashion, problems can be addressed by having the right people complete a job. 4. Preventing mishandlingConstruction companies often suffer losses due to mishandling or robbery on construction sites. When no one is on site in the evenings or weekends or when the site is located in a remote area, supplies like copper and aluminum are targets for thieves. Mobile surveillance can assist in recovering misplaced or stolen items and a job site can be monitored easily from a smartphone or tablet. 5. Integrates with existing systemsMobile apps are easily integrated into systems like payroll, sales, logistics and supply chain management. Expanding the role of technology on the jobsite allows a company to experience the benefits of technology on all levels of operation.Read More