Construction Productivity, construction technology, Safety & Compliance, Subcontractor —

7 Tips for Implementing Construction Jobsite Technology

PeritusNovember 25, 2024 • 4 min read

Construction Jobsite Technology adoption is no longer optional; it’s essential. As the industry changes, using modern tools can improve job sites. Software tools can assist with tracking time and materials, production, custom compliance forms, and timekeeping. Timekeeping should always include Clock-In, Clock-Out, and Kiosk Mode to help workers get working.

These software tools can streamline workflows, boost communication, and lead to more successful projects. However, introducing new technologies requires careful planning to ensure a smooth transition for field workers and office teams.

Here are seven tips for implementing technology at your construction job site:

1. Define Clear Objectives for Jobsite Technology

Before introducing any new technology, identify the specific problems you aim to solve. Do you need help tracking labor inefficiencies? Are compliance audits a headache? Does your back office spend too much time reconciling data?

For example, production tracking software gives real-time updates on project progress. Meanwhile, using Clock-In Clock-Out helps manage labor costs accurately. Clearly outlining these objectives helps you select the right tools and measure success.

Key Tip:

Ensure stakeholders understand the “why” behind the technology to foster buy-in and engagement.

2. Choose User-Friendly Software Tools

A tool’s effectiveness depends on how easily your team can use it. Construction workers often have tight schedules and face tough conditions. Therefore, technology should focus on being easy to use and require little data entry.

For example:

  • Production tracking tools should allow workers to log progress quickly using prefilled options or voice inputs.
  • You should design compliance forms to fit your workflows and make them mobile-friendly to reduce repetitive data entry.

Key Tip:

Opt for mobile-first technology that works on smartphones and tablets, eliminating the need for additional hardware.

3. Provide Hands-On Training for Jobsite Technology

Introducing new tools without proper training can result in frustration and low adoption rates. Schedule regular, hands-on training sessions to teach your team how to use the technology effectively.

Ensure your training covers the following:

  • How the tool fits into their daily workflows.
  • Troubleshooting common issues.
  • Tips for making the most of its features, like automated reminders for compliance forms or GPS-enabled timekeeping.

Key Tip:

Designate tech champions—field workers or supervisors trained extensively—who can help others on the job site.

4. Focus on Seamless Integration

One of the most significant barriers to technology adoption is siloed systems that create more work for teams. Choose tools that integrate seamlessly with your existing Accounting and ERP systems.

For example:

  • Timekeeping and Attendance software should feed directly into payroll software, eliminating duplicate data entry.
  • Production tracking should sync with project management platforms for a holistic view of job progress.
  • Compliance data should be easily accessible for audits and reporting.

Key Tip:

Streamlining workflows between the field and office ensures everyone benefits from real-time, actionable data.

5. Start Small and Scale Gradually

Implementing too many tools at once can overwhelm your team. Instead, start with one or two critical solutions and expand as your team becomes more comfortable. For example:

  • Begin with timekeeping to improve labor tracking.
  • Gradually introduce production tracking to enhance job progress monitoring.
  • Rollout custom field forms by project to enhance compliance.
  • Assign power users with trainees to further knowledge.

This phased approach reduces resistance to change and helps your team build confidence in using the tools.

Key Tip:

Gather feedback during each phase to identify and address challenges early.

6. Optimize for Real-Time Data Collection

Field workers often operate in fast-paced environments where more data entry is needed. Mobile software UI’s that simplify real-time data collection are essential.

For example:

  • Use pre-populated forms and drop-down menus to reduce typing.
  • Leverage features like clock-in clock-out automation to capture time data without manual effort.
  • Enable voice-to-text inputs for compliance notes.

Real-time data enhances decision-making for field and office teams, leading to more proactive management.

Key Tip:

Choose tools with offline functionality, ensuring workers can continue inputting data even in areas with limited internet.

7. Measure Success and Iterate

Technology adoption doesn’t end with implementation. Regularly check how it affects your goals. Look for signs of higher productivity, fewer compliance errors, and less time on admin tasks.

For instance:

  • Track how production tracking improves scheduling accuracy.
  • Monitor how timekeeping reduces payroll discrepancies.
  • Evaluate how much faster people complete compliance forms.

Solicit regular feedback from your team to identify areas for improvement and adjust workflows or training accordingly.

Key Tip:

The team should share success metrics to reinforce the value of the technology and celebrate wins.

Building the Modern Construction Environment

By following these best practices, you can create a modern construction environment. This environment connects the field and office with real-time data and smooth workflows.

When used correctly, jobsite technology helps instead of hinders. It allows field workers to focus on their tasks. At the same time, it gives the office accurate and useful insights.

Choosing the right technology is important for improving productivity, profits, and project success. This includes tools for tracking production, custom compliance forms, and timekeeping with ERP integrations.

Embrace the challenge of updating your construction workflows. This will help your jobsite meet today’s competitive demands.