Masonry Magazine December 2002 Page. 39
Software can increase your productivity and provide tons of business essential information.
with an emphasis on how to better leverage your business through more efficient and effective use of your software.
Have technologically current hardware.
As the cost of hardware continues to decline, even a contractor with limited funds can afford to update computer systems regularly. This investment will increase the company's productivity, as older computer systems tend to take longer when processing.
Invest in training.
Software can increase your productivity and provide tons of business essential information. Unfortunately, it can't do these things if the people aren't using it correctly. An investment in training is critical. Why invest thousands to purchase a program and then fall short on the training aspects.
This is especially important when turnover is involved. A typical scenario is when the only person that knows how to run the system leaves. A new person is thrust into the position without a bit of knowledge or guidance. This can be frustrating for all involved. Ideally more than one person should be trained upfront. And continuing education on advanced system functionality is highly recommended to really reap the benefits of your systems.
"For smaller companies, money for training can be an issue," Ode admits. "However, there are still ways to work around this. Determine what the most critical aspects of your business are and create a training schedule based on those needs. This way you avoid a large upfront expenditure and can break out different segments over time."
He sums up the issue saying, "When looking to improve your business systems, research is critical. Prioritize what is most important to your business accounting, job costing, estimating, Internet access-and once you've settled on the area you're going to focus on, list everything you would like the system to do. Categorize these items into 'must have' and 'wish list. Solicit the ideas and suggestions of the people using the system on a daily basis your staff. Establish a budget. Utilize the Internet to research what products are available in the market. Contact vendors and collect product information. Perform thorough reviews and schedule live demonstrations.
"And finally, don't forget about taking a hard look at the company providing the software. You will have to work with this company for, hopefully, a long period of time, so it is important to have common business practices."
And that, as they say, is very basic to your success.
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The Voice of the Mason Contractor
December 2002
Masonry 37