Construction companies aren’t like they were years ago, where work was managed and stored in paper documents and files. Everything today is digitized. But rather than processing and storing their critical data with onsite solutions, your construction clients can be benefitting from the Cloud. We’ll tell you here how you can take your construction clients to the next level with cloud computing. But first, let’s take a look at WHY you, as the MSP, need to start switching your construction clients over.
- Increase monthly reoccurring revenue: When your construction clients enjoy a smooth cloud migration, there’s a significant profit opportunity involved for you. First and foremost, you’ll need to provide continual management and support. Next, you’ll be able to cross-sell other cloud applications. And don’t forget add-on services.
- Enhance client retention rates: The Cloud is much more customizable. It’s not a one-size-fits-all type of solution, which means you can make the cloud work perfectly to suit whatever challenges and/or goals your client may have. When you’re exceeding the needs of your construction client, you’re able to retain them for much longer.
- Keep other IT companies away from your clients: If you’re not talking to your construction clients about the Cloud, another IT company will. According to recent studies, 60-70% of businesses are considering a migration to the Cloud in the next two years. If you’re not there to make the switch, another IT company will be.
- Save time and effort in terms of support: Let’s be real: on-premises technology takes a lot more time and effort in terms of support. If you move as many construction clients as possible to one reliable cloud service, you’re able to minimize that time as you’ll become fully-versed in the use (and support) of that service.
What Are The Key Benefits Of Using Cloud Technology In The Construction Industry?
The construction industry is one of the most information-intensive sectors today. To complete a project requires extensive exchange of data between their managers, subcontractors, architects, engineers, building inspectors, and others.
Consequently, on-premise computing solutions for storing and deploying data and applications are no longer practical for construction companies. From mobile solutions to in-office invoicing software, cloud-based solutions can streamline and simplify their daily tasks.
The benefits of using the Cloud in construction are numerous. If your clients want to gain a competitive edge, investing in cloud solutions can get them there. It provides the potential to improve every part of their work processes.
8 Ways The Cloud Can Help Your Construction Clients Grow Their Businesses
The Cloud Promotes Mobility.
Even though reliable internet services aren’t available at all of their construction sites, when combining mobile connectivity with today’s cloud solutions, their workforce can use the applications and data they need from virtually anywhere, even for job sites that are highly remote.
Keep Their Files Secure.
When they digitize their workflow and store data in the Cloud, it eliminates the need for workers to haul documents and files from site to site. This not only provides easy access, but ensures data remains secure and won’t get lost or ruined on a project site, or when being taken from one place to another.
Their Files Will Be Accessible From Anywhere.
Project and customer data will always be available to authorized staff no matter where they are. This includes information on job sites no matter where they’re located. The 24/7 access and connectivity offered by the Cloud creates a highly accessible digital paper trail.
Using The Cloud Can Improve Workflows.
No more relying on traditional paper-based workflows. The Cloud provides opportunities for workflows to be partially or entirely digitized. This allows for paper-free and instant communication between your clients’ headquarters, field offices, managers, contractors, vendors, and partners.
- Your contracting clients can track work by the location, day, and hour.
- Material shipment information is available in real-time and at a moment’s notice.
- Invoicing software in the Cloud will sync with accounting software to avoid duplication of efforts.
They Can Automate Processes.
Automation with machine learning plays an enormous role in optimizing workflows and predicting problems before they occur. When your construction clients work in the Cloud, they can automate or semi-automate many processes.
They can:
- Use analytics to predict problems before they arise and optimize workflows.
- Automate and monitor work and maintenance schedules.
- Optimize logistics and prevent equipment and resource losses by tracking them in real-time via the Cloud.
- Track and optimize work-in-progress on sites using sensors that monitor downtime.
- Monitor and track staff performance.
- Detect safety issues on sites.
- Increase productivity and cut costs with IoT (Internet of Things) autonomous vehicles.
- Order equipment, fuel, and other materials to be delivered on worksites.
- All of this can be managed digitally to reduce downtime caused by inefficient planning.
Make Use Of Big Data.
During the lifecycle of any project, your contracting clients must process and share massive amounts of information like architectural and engineering drawings, production schedules, time and materials inventories, and more. The Cloud provides the ability to store and process big data that are needed for this.
BIM Can Be Accessed Via The Cloud.
They can also access and monitor projects with Building Information Modeling (BIM) software, where they manage and create 3D building data during a project. BIM software is now geared towards all construction professionals, not just architects. It provides a digital representation of a building for construction documentation production, planning, performance predictions, and cost estimates. They can use it to demonstrate the entire building life cycle, processes of construction, and facility operations.
They Can Exceed Their Customers’ Expectations Using Cloud CRM Software.
This is an essential tool for today’s construction companies. Over the long course of a construction process, it’s vital that they carefully manage their relationship with customers. They need a cloud-based system that they can access from anywhere to keep track of contact information, communications, and ensure that customers’ requests are being addressed. They can use CRM software in the Cloud to:
- Track interactions with customers and prospects.
- Retain detailed records of each interaction.
- Gain insight into the success of their marketing and sales efforts.
- Enable collaboration across their multiple job sites.
This provides their managers, sales reps, and marketers quick access to essential customer data to ensure requirements are being met.
Want more information on how using the Cloud can take your construction clients to the next level? Contact the team at Cloud Services For MSPs.