Your guide to field service scheduling software
Whether a business focuses on multi-stage projects, recurring maintenance work, or service jobs, good scheduling practices can make or break business efficiency. A lot of trades businesses have multiple contractors and employees tending to projects in different locations.
While there are a number of ways you can run scheduling processes, in today’s technology driven world, a service scheduling software is the best way to go.
Why do field service businesses need scheduling software?
Better communication
Scheduling software can help businesses improve processes and increase efficiency in a number of ways. One of the most important benefits of service scheduling software is reduced miscommunication between field and office staff.
Increased billable hours
Not only does software decrease the opportunities for miscommunication, but also saves time as field staff no longer need to call into the office or vice versa to make project updates or complete any last minute changes.
Meet customer expectations
Customers feel left in the dark when there is no clarity and frequent schedule changes. Appease field service customers by communicating job start times with more accuracy while increasing your credibility as a trusted service provider.
How can businesses properly schedule and dispatch using software?
Plan your routes strategically
Create routes based on accessibility, availability, and most importantly, efficiency. You can be strategic by prioritising customers who are having an emergency or those who are on contract and therefore should be given scheduling priority.
Assign a dedicated scheduler
With a designated scheduler on hand, you can help decrease scheduling errors and further ensure that your dispatching is efficient.
What should field service businesses look for in a scheduling software solution?
It’s important to find the best scheduling software for your business needs. In addition to finding the right features to best dispatch field service staff, look for these key components in your software solution:
Compatibility with other systems
If you are looking to integrate an automated scheduling programme with other software tools already in place, you’ll want to ensure that the connection is smooth and seamless.
Automated schedule notifications
One of the key benefits to scheduling software is the ability to receive schedule updates and changes as alerts or notifications. If the scheduling programme doesn’t automate the way schedules are shared, you are missing out on a key piece of efficiency in your scheduling processes.
Timesheet capability
Whether through a timesheet integration or built-in timesheet features, a good scheduling software should allow you to combine timesheet functionality with scheduling processes.
simPRO is a leading field service management software solution for service, project and maintenance contractors. simPRO helps your business connect the office to the field, deliver exceptional customer service and gain invaluable insights with automated processes, streamlined workflows and in-depth business reporting. Achieve full business visibility with this comprehensive end-to-end solution.
