The future of construction documentation lies in mobile apps
How helpful apps make construction documentation and communication much easier.
Digitalization is also becoming increasingly important in the craft sector. As a result, craft businesses are confronted with new technologies and a more connected world. In a study by the Central Association of German Crafts (ZDH), 81% of the companies surveyed say they are open to digitization. 69% of them even see it as an opportunity for the future of their company. This is reflected, for example, in the use of specific software for the be-all and end-all of a functioning construction site. Just over half of all companies surveyed say they use such technology. However, this is often software used on a PC, but there is still room for improvement in the area of mobile devices. There are already several interesting start-ups that offer apps for construction documentation to make use even more flexible and easier. The company Craftnote, for example, advertises that it is as simple as WhatsApp.
The handyman app as a useful addition to everyday working life
“Like Whatsapp only especially for tradesmen” because, in addition to construction documentation, it also supports communication on the construction site with a chat function. Anyone who can handle the popular messenger should therefore have no further problems using the Craftnote app. In addition, the app can be used on a PC and on mobile devices, thus creating a real-time connection between office and construction site. The way it works is project-based. First, a project is created and all participants, whether employees, builders or suppliers, are added. This ensures that all participants can access all shared documents at any time, online and offline. Files such as photos, videos, notes or scanned documents can then be shared in chronological chat history or a separate file storage. This offers the advantage that no more data is lost in a chaos of notes, as it is clearly arranged digitally. With just a few clicks, you can see whether everything is going according to plan on the construction site. As an addition, the start-up offers working time recording and interfaces with other software systems. Construction documentation apps such as Craftnote can therefore be a valuable addition to everyday work in the craft sector.
The impact of apps on crafts
The use of apps or drones on construction sites naturally has an impact on manual work. But not in a negative sense. They are there to supplement and support the work steps with technological tools. Mobile devices such as tablets or smartphones are coming to the fore. Because many craftsmen are already using them in everyday life. This makes it familiar to use. Important documents can therefore be digitally saved and archived in the work area. This saves mountains of documents. Communication is largely carried out via an app and all people involved in the project can be accessed with just a few finger movements. In addition, working hours can be determined precisely via an app and evidence of progress on the construction site can be transmitted in real time through photos and videos. This opens up completely new opportunities to keep track of a project and thus to perform high-quality work.
Workspace steps in which apps are already being used today
First, they are used in the area of document processing. Reports, for example, can be written directly on the tablet on site and easily shared and saved in the app. This also helps when there are disagreements with suppliers or other trades, as all stored data can be retrieved immediately. Second, apps are used in the area of defect management. Craftsmen can record defects directly on the construction site with their mobile devices and provide them with all relevant information. Thirdly, not only are deficiencies documented, but also progress on the construction site. With photos and videos, work steps can be precisely recorded and provided with additional comments and markings. The office receives all necessary information in the app and does not have to laboriously collect it from several “employees”.
Conclusion: The future of crafts lies in digitization
Since digitization is a constantly progressive process that pervades all areas of life, it is worthwhile for craft companies to take advantage of the many new opportunities. This gives you an advantage over competitors, as new technologies such as apps and drones make work more efficient, saving time and money. In addition, a digitally well-positioned company stands for progress and can therefore score points with customers and potential employees.
