Web-based software keeps clients in the loop – Track your renovation online
One of the most fascinating – and potentially useful – new tools in home renovations is web-based communication systems that allow clients to keep a remote eye on the work being done. A lesson any successful contractor quickly learns is that communication and
information sharing with the client is as important as the work itself. While custom online tracking systems have been around for a while, we recently invested in a new web-based project tracking software package that seems to do it all. Called BuilderTracker, it serves as a communication tool between the contractor, the homeowner, the architect and even subcontractors. Because it is an online program, it offers everyone on the project 24/7 access to scheduling information, change orders, documents, project photos, estimates and product selections, plus it organizes all the project-related communication. Instead
of relying on phone calls and a paper trail (which doesn’t always happen), the program enables everything to occur and remain online in one convenient location for easy access and data retrieval. Working with the program has revolutionized the way I communicate with my clients on their projects. At last, I can offer my clients – many of who are web-savvy and technologically astute – a convenient online tool we can use to collaborate on
their project. Clients seem to love it. In fact, BuilderTrend reports that customers log in to their project sites on average nine to 12 times per week. This spring, we completed a renovation for the Vancouver location of Hain Celestial in preparation of the company’s Vancouver 2010 Olympic Winter Games food sponsor sponsorship announcement. The
client’s contact was based in Toronto. Through web-based tracking, the client was able
to keep track of the project schedule and budget, communicate project decisions, collaborate on sketches details and fulfill her role as the client project manager, despite the geographical distance. The result was a satisfied client that felt in control of the process in spite of not physically being onsite. When I think of the e-mails, phone calls and faxes that would have been needed for the same level of communication just a few months ago, it was a seamless and stress-reducing experience. The benefits for busy homeowners are obvious. They can stay in the loop even if the spouse is on a business trip, or even if the family is living in another city during the course of the project. Another feature is that it organizes and archives all the communication that occurs between the homeowner and the contractor. This helps to alleviate any miscommunication and any subsequent misunderstandings. With some of my projects requiring potentially hundreds of e-mail exchanges, BuilderTrend ensures all that correspondence is organized and at one’s fingertips. Another primary feature is to collaborate on selections and upgrades then process change orders with online signatures. This is very convenient feature for the homeowner as there are typically many decisions to make through the course of a project. Because I can track and organize those decisions online, there is less chance of an error or oversight. One caution With project management systems, the contractor has to use the program consistently and effectively before the homeowner reaps the benefits. Like any software program it requires discipline by the contractor to implement it as a daily business tool. Many contractors do great work without the need to automate the information process. However, as more homeowners are becoming accustomed to working online, they often welcome the option to work on that basis for their renovation. Thanks to online programs like BuilderTrend, the ideal home renovation process of good communication between contractor and homeowner, as well as an accurate project schedule, is closer than ever. It’s about time. ??
Steve Kemp of Kemp Construction Ltd. Has been in the construction industry for more than 25 years. Since 2007, he also manages the construction of the GVHBA’s Home in the Dome. Contact him at steve.kemp@telus.net