Technology has come a long way over recent years, but many businesses are still in the habit of using the manual processes that they have long been used to.
This is exactly where many of the project delays they are facing originate from.
Introducing automated scheduling systems has been shown to result in labour costs being reduced by 15 to 25%, but why are so many businesses in field service environments still not making the switch?
Change is often tough to introduce when processes have been in place for so long, but we’re on hand to explain exactly why manual reporting is hindering efficiency and how easy real-time scheduling can make everyday life.
5 Reasons Field Service Teams are Facing so Many Delays
Field service teams are used to fast-paced work environments, but the combination of continuous moving parts and outdated processes can cause havoc.
From a business perspective, the first step in making a change is understanding trends that are leading to regular delays.
Here are some of the most common causes of delays in field service environments.
Poor Visibility of Project Progress
It has been shown that 52% of service businesses still rely on manual or paper-based reporting processes, even though this makes it almost impossible to keep all of the project team in the loop.
If project managers are assuming that work is on track but the field team is busy dealing with issues that have cropped up, it’s going to delay the project even further since it’s going to be slower to make decisions and decide on the best course of action.
Unrealistic Project Timelines
The early stage of a project is crucial since it is when the timeline is written up. If this project timeline is created based on vague estimates and doesn’t account for potential disruptions, it’s going to make it even more difficult to avoid delays.
Since these deadlines are where expectations are set for clients, if these are not met, it can cause frustrations and loss of trust in the business.
Changes to the Original Project Scope
No project is ever going to be smooth sailing from start to finish, and it is not realistic to expect that almost every project in field service environments is not going to have small challenges or change requests somewhere along the way.
Changes are frequent, but they take a lot of time to work around. The consequences of these changes can be major delays which can have a knock-on effect if not managed correctly. This is due to labour, resources and budget having already been allocated to suit the original plan.
Lack of Communication Between Field and Office
Miscommunications between field and office staff are a classic story in field service settings, but they have a big effect on the efficiency of workflows.
If office teams aren’t clear on what’s happening on site, or field teams are sitting around waiting for instructions, the disconnect can lead to frustration, misunderstandings, and ultimately, unnecessary delays.
Shortages of Tools or Equipment
Many businesses have strict time frames for the use of tools and equipment, and an internal booking system is needed to ensure that work can be completed effectively at different stages of projects.
With a paper system, people are more likely to forget to check assets in or out, making it nearly impossible to locate missing tools and equipment. In the middle of a fast-paced project, this can bring work to a standstill.
How Real-Time Scheduling Can Transform Traditional Processes
The term ‘real-time scheduling’ describes the use of digital tools that work to keep project schedules on track. They are able to make adjustments if there is an unexpected delay or change that needs to be made, keeping close track of the work that is being done and measuring it against the project schedule.
In the context of field service scheduling, these tools give project managers much clearer visibility over work that is being carried out as it is happening. Field workers are able to log their jobs using their phones, and these will be instantly visible from the office to keep them in the loop.
The simple addition of real-time scheduling can be transformative for a project team. Let’s talk about some of the main reasons why.
- Better communication. Since all members of a project are logging their work on a regular basis and updates can be shared centrally, collaboration is instantly going to be improved across the team.
- Quick reactions to unforeseen delays. When a hiccup occurs, real-time scheduling means it will be spotted early on and addressed before it has a knock-on effect.
- Efficiency of resource allocation. Digital systems enable the better allocation of tools and equipment. This minimises the risk of lost or double-booked assets.
Staying Ahead in Fast-Changing Field Service Environments
Delays are a daily occurrence for many businesses, but when they become routine, they can have a serious effect, not only on the overall project timeline but also on the stress and frustration levels of both the client and the project team.
Real-time scheduling can make a big difference. It can enhance team collaboration and allow project managers to find the least disruptive ways to manage change so projects are completed more efficiently than ever before.
