Electrical services work is a highly mobile, fast-paced occupation. Whether it’s addressing an urgent electrical malfunction or completing a comprehensive installation project, electricians must be able to respond quickly and efficiently to any work order. The problem is electricians can get bogged down in paperwork and manual processes when they’re trying to manage their jobs. As a result, they end up spending too much time on administrative tasks instead of focusing on the technical work that truly needs to be done.
Job management software streamlines these administrative headaches so sparkies can focus on servicing their clients. Here are several ways job management software can empower a responsive electrical services workforce:
Efficient assignment handling
Job management software allows electrical services companies to quickly and easily assign jobs to electricians. When a service request comes in, the software will automatically process all the key details (e.g., job type, location, appointment date) and prepare a work order. From there, dispatchers can quickly check the company roster and assign the work order to someone with the appropriate skills and availability. Of course, if permitted, job management software can automatically dispatch jobs to the right technician based on the parameters of the work order. Expediting the assignment process this way not only saves back-office staff time, but it also mobilises electricians faster so they can start working straight away.
Moreover, job management software enables real-time communication between the office and field technicians. WorkBuddy, in particular, comes with a field app that allows electricians to access their entire job queue and receive new assignments anywhere, anytime. As soon as a work order is assigned, electricians get a notification along with all the necessary job details, instructions, and customer information. This means electricians never have to go to the dispatch desk to pick up paperwork orders or wait for follow-up calls. Instead, they can remain in the field and quickly move on to their next job, allowing them to quickly respond to service requests.
Up-to-date material tracking
A wide range of materials is necessary for electrical services work, from wires and switches to circuit breakers and conduits. To get the job done efficiently, electricians need to have the right materials on hand. Job management software helps electrical service providers maintain a comprehensive inventory of materials and track their usage throughout various assignments. It allows for easy cataloguing of materials, including details such as quantity, specifications, and locations.
Field technicians can update material usage in real time using the software. As they complete tasks, they can record the materials used, so the inventory managers always have up-to-date stock levels and can plan for replenishment accordingly. Job management software can even be programmed to generate alerts when materials reach a predefined threshold, prompting the company to stock up before it runs out of necessary components. With this level of material tracking, electrical service providers can ensure their technicians always have enough materials for the next job. Clients won’t have to wait an extra day or two for materials to arrive on site, and electricians won’t have to waste time running back to the office.
Optimised route planning
Responsive service means electricians are getting from one job to the next as quickly as possible without any delays or detours. With job management software, dispatchers can leverage advanced route optimisation features that take into account factors such as distance and traffic conditions. It can provide real-time updates on traffic conditions, road closures, or other disruptions, allowing for route adjustments as needed. Job management software even considers each electrician’s assignments for the day and where these are located to determine the optimal sequence for completing tasks.
By analysing these variables, the software maps optimised routes for field technicians, ensuring they reach their destinations in the most efficient manner. This capability not only reduces travel time and fuel expenses, but it also enables electricians to complete more assignments in a day. Plus, arriving on time to each jobsite shows clients that the electrical service provider values their time and is committed to responsive service.
Emergency call management
Electrical emergencies require quick response times to ensure public safety and minimise property damage. Job management software equipped with emergency call management capabilities empowers electrical service providers to handle such situations effectively. When an emergency call comes in, the software immediately identifies the nearest available field technician with the necessary skills and dispatches them to the site.
The software provides real-time updates to the office, allowing administrators to monitor the situation, track the technician’s progress, and keep the customer informed. It can also provide additional information about the nature of the emergency, enabling field technicians to be better prepared when they arrive at the site. Emergency call management essentially ensures a swift response, efficient deployment of resources, and effective resolution of critical situations.
If your electrical services company wants to improve its responsiveness and customer service, job management software is an invaluable tool. WorkBuddy helps electrical service providers streamline their workflows, better manage resources, and respond quickly to customer needs. Schedule a free personalised demo today to see its capabilities for yourself.
