contractor success Tracking Updated Technology Trends Faster and cheaper communications options can change the service contract market. By: Robert Brown W We all know the amazing technology ad-vances that are happening across every as-pect of our lives. For facility teams and commercial clean-ing companies, the convergence of cloud computing and mobile devices are facili-tating major shifts in how teams and busi-nesses can operate and prosper. Mobile work forces are easily connected on inexpensive platforms that can capture data for service improvements, analysis and customer retention. pipeline in the cloud, track activities, com-plete a walk-through while capturing build-ing specifications and client needs on a tab-let, sync the tablet to the cloud and turn it all into a customized bid. Customers will see the value; buildings specification data is captured at the point of bid and available for future use. Images courtesy of fishbones/iStock/Thinkstock Increased Communication The convergence — smartphone or tablet syncs to the cloud and stores data — is driv-ing down technology costs. Data is, and continues to become, much cheaper to gather, store and ulti-mately reuse for the purpose of improv-ing your operation and your customers’ experience. Communications options are also inex-pensive, both the devices and the variety of connectivity plans, and some like Wi-Fi are even free. This significant shift allows any contrac-tor, regardless of size, to compete more effectively, improve operational delivery, enhance the employee experience and meet the needs of the most demanding customers. Effective selling is at the heart of any well-run company, and with cloud and mobile platforms, sale teams are now in a position to compete more effectively and win more business. Technology Adds Value The days of the big guys having service ad-vantages due to technology are gone. Sales departments can manage their Today’s technology makes it increasingly easier for companies and employees to be con-nected, giving the customer better all around experiences and service more tailored to their exact needs. August 2014 36 CM/Cleaning & Maintenance Management ®
CMM – Archives August 2014: 36
