In the busy construction industry, communication is the key to success. With many projects happening at the same time, all with multiple employees, equipment, and details, it can be challenging to keep everyone on the same page and aligned to goals, a budget, and a schedule.
That’s where the daily field report comes in.
This document, also referred to as a daily log or site report, tracks the progress of a construction project and provides daily updates about what has been done, who’s working on the project, what equipment is being used, and any other updates about weather, challenges, or issues of the project.
Traditionally, field reports were done by hand, with supervisors writing the details on paper and manually giving it to office staff or other employees. However, traditional, paper-based reporting can lead to many challenges, especially around accuracy.
Handwritten entries are difficult to read and have to be manually entered into software systems, where translation errors can occur. Manually completing forms is also time-consuming, and the paper forms can easily be lost or stored in the wrong places.
Paper forms are difficult to share, collaborate, or analyze, meaning construction companies miss out on opportunities to dive into patterns, trends, and updates about their projects. And, of course, a paper form on a busy construction site is susceptible to weather, dirt, and other chances of being damaged.
How can construction teams get all the benefits of a daily field report without the challenges of manual reporting? By leaning into field report software to improve communication and streamline processes.
Instead of navigating physical daily reports, construction companies are moving to field report software to create digital reports that can be emailed in PDF form. The software transforms the reporting process to tap into the benefits of daily field reports and overcome their challenges.
Field report software provides real-time updates to the back office. Instead of waiting for a supervisor to fill out a physical form and bring it back to the office, the software allows for nearly instant collaboration and conversation. If a supervisor logs that the project is progressing slower than anticipated or that certain equipment is having issues, the back office can send additional workers or schedule equipment maintenance to take care of issues as soon as possible.
Projects move quickly, and real-time communication allows the back office to adjust or step in when challenges and issues arise. It also gives the office a nearly real-time view of the equipment and teams in use. The software makes it easy for supervisors to log updates after every site walk, too, which helps avoid disconnects between the field and the office.
Some of the greatest benefits of reporting software are error reduction and improved accountability. Physical forms can be lost, mistranslated, or challenging to decipher. Digital reports are easier to adjust and easier to read, making it simple for everyone on the team and in the office to be on the same page. Digital forms also provide room for more details, including the equipment used and the workers present, so leaders have an accurate view of each project. These forms can easily be stored to track progress over time and ensure goals are met and projects stay on track.
There are many types of reporting software available, but not every tool has robust features to streamline workflows and provide the full benefits of a digital tool. As you consider different brands of reporting software, look for these three key features:
Creating a branded report template or different templates for different types of projects builds consistency in your company and makes it easier to track project progress over time. Even better, it creates a professional brand and ensures every report has the exact information you need with none of the extras. Some software even auto-completes information from the last report, making it easier to provide accurate information if nothing has changed.
Some updates can’t be put into words. Software that allows users to upload photos means construction crews can add photos of their progress, equipment issues, weather, and any work they have questions about. Users can also upload documents like invoices, maps, blueprints, and more. These visual elements provide a clear picture of the work and make it easier to address issues and track progress.
Any construction worker knows the status of a project can change drastically throughout the day. The weather may change, equipment may fail, and different crews may be on the job site to change a project. Software that allows for real-time reporting and communication ensures the back office knows what’s happening at the moment instead of waiting for a report to be filed at the end of the same. Similarly, look for reporting software that integrates into your existing software systems, such as job costing, accounting, and project management tools, to create a cohesive system with all the details and updates for a project in one place.
Digital daily field reports benefit everyone on a job site, from contractors to leaders.
Two of the greatest benefits to contractors are faster communication and decision-making. Instead of waiting to file a report, have it be reviewed by someone in the back office, and receive a response to a question, reporting software drives collaboration and communication. When an issue or question arises, contractors can communicate seamlessly and make stronger, more strategic decisions to keep the project moving.
Reporting software also allows for improved project tracking. With customized fields for the relevant information, contractors can have accurate records of what happened every day of the project. This information helps align a project’s progress with its schedule and budget and provides strong records to help teams improve with every project.
hh2 Construction Daily Field Reporting Software
In the fast-paced construction world, reporting software is one of the most beneficial tools for contractors and construction companies. If you’re ready to take your daily reports to the next level, turn to hh2’s Construction Daily Field Reporting Software. Our leading tool helps you log everything to streamline workflows and improve efficiency. Click here to learn more and schedule a demo today.