Field service teams are in dire need of assistance. New tech has evolved so meticulously that businesses may be having a difficult time picking the right tools.
Add to the mix the fact that teams need to be trained to use it and start planning!
However, while the focus of every business process these days seems to be on technology, it is important to not forget other aspects.
Communication, for one, should be maintained so that it includes face-to-face interactions.
Safety training is also paramount. While there are many platforms that can help with the task, businesses should include interactions and encourage collaboration.
These, and other points of interest, will be considered in this article, so dive in!
Empower Your Teams With Technology
Picking the finest new tech solutions is a necessity rather than an option. Namely, field service technology streamlines workflows and upholds real-time collaboration. Just imagine how helpful instant access to work orders, customer information, equipment manuals, and interactive maps can be!
GPS tracking is a functionality typically included in all field service automation apps, making route planning as easy as it gets. Additional choices include online time clock apps, organizational apps for delivery drivers, and project management solutions.
The construction industry can benefit from tools like Procore, PlanGrid, and Fieldwire. Procore eases project management as it stores documents, communication, and data in one central location. PlanGrid is useful for blueprints and drawings and allows real-time markups. Fieldwire helps with task tracking and progress monitoring on construction sites.
Other tools may come to mind; these three are used as a starting point.
Clear Communication
Effective field service operations rely greatly on open communication. Seamless interactions and collaboration ensure that all complex processes are being handled efficiently.
That’s why businesses should establish open channels of communication for real-time updates between field technicians, supervisors, and support teams.
Slack, Microsoft Teams, or FieldAware can be deployed to this end.
Comprehensive Training
Field service teams need to be properly trained. Period.
Structured training programs can help teams acquire the skills and adaptability required to navigate any challenge that may present itself. Typical areas to cover include safety protocols, customer service skills, technical proficiency, and the use of tools and technology.
While training apps designed for this particular purpose can prove useful in this regard, businesses should also organize regular workshops.
Apps like Trainual and LearnUpon offer customizable training modules, quizzes, and assessments for field service processes. ProProfs Training Maker and GoSkills are suitable for the construction industry.
Standardized Processes
Establishing uniform protocols and implementing standardized processes in field service operations can make a significant difference in operational efficiency.
The practice ensures that all processes are aligned with predefined quality standards. Typical processes that can be standardized include job assignments, task execution, documentation, and quality checks.
As for the apps that can help in this regard, consider Trello, Asana, or Pipefy. Buildertrend and Buildup can prove useful for construction processes.
Preventive Maintenance
Preventive maintenance can make or break a business. They secure uninterrupted service delivery, minimize downtime, optimize asset lifespan, and help field service teams anticipate prospective equipment issues.
Maintenance management apps such as Fiix, UpKeep, or Hippo CMMS are a good starting point as they allow businesses to create maintenance schedules, track equipment history, and receive alerts for upcoming tasks.
For the construction industry, Procore and PlanGrid offer solid preventive maintenance features.
Time Management
Effective time management allows businesses to optimize resources, meet customer expectations, and enhance organizational efficiency. Time management comprises efficient scheduling, route planning, and task allocation.
In this regard too, apps can come to the rescue. Time-tracking and scheduling apps such as Toggl, Calendly, or ServiceM8 allow users to log time, schedule appointments, and receive notifications for upcoming assignments.
Resource Optimization
Data-driven insights are the hyped solution to every problem these days, and field service isn’t an exception.
Using analytics to allocate resources efficiently, and reduce travel time and fuel costs, among other processes, has become a standard.
Analytics uses historical service data, technician locations, and appointment schedules and comes up with optimized routes.
WorkWave and Verizon Connect are some of the apps that offer a variety of features.
Remote Troubleshooting
Lastly, we come to remote troubleshooting, which can be particularly tricky.
Diagnosing and resolving problems through video calls or diagnostic tools can help businesses reduce downtime and streamline service delivery.
Video conferencing apps like Zoom or Microsoft Teams can help, as they enable real-time video communication. TeamViewer and LogMeIn allow remote access to devices and systems.
Everything considered, new tech can help businesses elevate their field service teams significantly and within a reasonable amount of time.
However, don’t forget workshops and team-building activities!
Frontline workers often complain of poor relationships, which is the main reason why they’re leaving their jobs en masse. Create a workplace culture that embraces inclusivity and helps your teams excel!
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