Building takes time and time always equates to money. So to save time and money, we look to “systems” to simplify processes. Systems come in all forms, and there is not one that fits all.
Small business systems are generally very disciplined processes, managing paper documents and creating workflows with those documents. Alternatively, corporate systems are typically large computer solutions designed to eliminate paper.
There is no right or wrong system for the construction industry, but there is a mandatory requirement of a successful system — the more it reduces duplication, the more efficient the processes it creates will be.
During the past 12 years, software developer Companion Systems has developed a Software as a Service (SaaS) solution that reduces duplication.
It does this by incorporating workflow templates to manage residential and commercial construction, from initial customer enquiry all the way through to the completed build and warranty.
The workflow templates are customisable to each builder’s unique process methodology, and are especially beneficial to builders managing multiple projects simultaneously.
The job control manages the build process, and integrates directly into the user’s To-Do lists. Each task can have a successor and/or predecessor so when one task is completed, the next activity in the workflow is visible to the appropriate person.
Management, supervisors and administration staff see the job’s tasks, trades and suppliers, documents, pictures, communications (including all e-mails) and H&S aspects pertaining to a job.
Job progress reporting, project Gantt charting, project document templates and document version control are all integrated into the system.
The solution operates online and offline when internet connectivity is limited, so it’s always ready when needed.
Companion Systems offers a no-obligation online demonstration for any builder looking to grow with their existing resources or to reduce costs with the projects they are currently completing.
