Drills and hammers aside, the most powerful tool the modern tradesperson possesses is in the palm of their hand – their smartphone.
Powering up these nifty devices to deliver even more tricks of the trade, there are plenty of apps and software options available for those within the industry. Used correctly and implemented well into your workflow, they can even increase your revenue and save you time and money across the board.
So we’re counting down 8 of our favourite picks of the bunch. Streamline your efficiency and operations with these nifty apps and software options to make your job that little bit easier and take your business to the next level.
1. Google Maps
This app may seem obvious to some, but there are still some builders and trades out there using paper maps and old school navigation techniques to get by.
Loading Google Maps into your phone will not only provide you with handy GPS and navigation in your vehicle, but it also uses live information to predict routes that will bypass accidents, road works and traffic delays.
It will make it quicker and easier to get to your jobs, instead of wrestling a worn-out street directory.
2. Hipages
This is the modern tradie equivalent of the Yellow Pages – yep, there is such a thing.
Get listed on this digital database where people go to find tradespeople of all professions, all targeted towards jobs large and small. Receive instant alerts for jobs in your area, providing a great way to expand your operations.
Find out more: https://hipages.com.au/
3. Xero
Paperwork is time-consuming. No one wants to be stuck behind a desk more than they have to be. Xero and other accountancy apps (like MYOB), allow you to effectively manage your financial requirements and keep on top of payroll.
You can also use the app to track all of your payments, incoming and outbound, giving you a true perspective of your cash flow for better forecasting. Enjoy an easy-to-use interface that’s user-friendly, highly automated, and free from unnecessary clutter.
4. Paypal (or another digital wallet)
Chasing invoices can be exhausting and can halt your cash flow – which is never a good thing for a small business.
Having a payments platform like PayPal or another digital wallet like Stripe allows you to accept payments on your smartphone, instantly.
Instead of invoicing, you may be able to collect immediate payment on some jobs instead of waiting longer than you have too. Speed up your cash flow and give your customers more flexibility.
Find out more: www.paypal.com.au
5. Buildxact
It wouldn’t be a complete list without Buildxact. Designed to be an end-to-end building software solution, Buildxact should be in every tradespersons’ digital toolbox.
Use your favourite device to easily manage your estimates and job management capabilities, all through using a raft of powerful, but simple to use features. These include:
- Construction management tools
- Creating online takeoffs in minutes, not hours
- Fast and accurate job costings which you can link to your existing suppliers
- The ability to create professional quotes to send to clients.
- Scheduling software
- Cost and purchasing tracking
- The ability to generate professional invoices and;
- It will connect to your other software and apps like Xero.
Essentially, this job management and estimating software will cut out double-handling, simplify every process and get you back in control of your cashflow and help you maximise your profits.
Get your free trial here: https://www.buildxact.com.au/sign-up/
6. Airtasker
Sometimes jobs need a little bit of assistance to manage overflow – be that labour or admin. It is a great way to assemble an instant workforce, and you can browse users’ history. Explore a full history of taskers’ reviews and ensure you’re opting for a quality worker who will put their best foot forward.
Beyond that, you may even find a few odd jobs here and there, allowing you to gain better exposure for your overall services.
Get it here: iOS, Android or find out more at www.airtasker.com
7. Super-Bright LED Flashlight
This app is a simple one, but it’s a beauty. Trust us.
Use the flashlight that is saddled to your smartphone camera as a high-powered torch that you have on you at all times. Perfect for those tight spaces or awkward spots where you need to shed more light on the situation, it definitely beats carrying a torch and spare batteries.
8. Paper
If you’re on iOS this one is for you.
A simply-named app with a very basic use – providing you with digital paper.
Write, sketch, take notes, show ideas – everything you can do with a pen and paper but without the need for carrying them all with you.
The best part is that your notes and pictures can be saved digitally, so they are not lost to the ages. We’re all a little guilty of losing our bits and pieces when we need them most.
For Android users, we recommend trying out Bamboo Paper, which has similar functionality.
Ready to kick things off? Grab your free, no obligation trial of Buildxact now.
If you want to find out more, get in touch with the Buildxact team now on 1800 965 597.
