When you’re knee-deep in the grind on the construction site, data might not be the first thing on your mind, but trust us, it’s a game-changer. In this blog post, we’re diving into why taking control of your data is not just a fancy idea; it’s a vital step toward achieving excellence.
Data: The Unsung Hero of Construction
Think of data as the unsung hero of your construction project. It’s not just numbers and files; it’s your lifeline, especially when it comes to documentation. As you toil away building and recording your work on the site, you’re not just creating structures; you’re also creating a record of your effort and craftsmanship.
Now, here’s where it gets really important – that data isn’t just for show. It’s your safety net when you run into tricky situations, like clients trying to wriggle out of agreements or payments. Having proper documentation can mean the difference between getting paid for your hard work and getting stuck in a costly dispute.
The Risk of Relying on Others' Systems
Let’s talk about something that’s been happening more often lately. Sometimes, contractors use systems provided by others to store their project data. It could be a subcontractor’s platform, or the system offered by the client or the project manager. These systems are handy, no doubt, but here’s the catch: you’re not the owner of the data.
That might not seem like a big deal, but it is. If a subcontractor or the client goes bankrupt or simply decides to shut down access to the system you’ve been using, where does that leave you?
The hard truth is, when you don’t own your data and you rely on someone else’s system, you’re at their mercy. You might lose access to critical project information, and that could be a major headache when you’re in the middle of a project or if a dispute arises.
Therefore, it is always recommendable that you use your own system to document your work and store your data.
The Power of Data Ownership
Owning your own data is not just about safeguarding yourself; it’s also about taking charge of your business. When you own your data, you can use it as a tool to make your operation more efficient, secure, and profitable.
You can for example use your data to get smarter. Is there a specific type of mistake you make a lot across projects? Is one of your workers doing a particular task poorly? Does he/she need further education/instruction? Find out by using your data and analyzing it across projects to see patterns. This can help you polish your construction work and ultimately save you both time and money. But the only way you are able to do this is by collecting all your data in a system you control.
So, my fellow builders, the next time someone suggests using their system for your project data, think twice. It’s not just a convenience; it’s a choice that could affect your business’s security and success. In the world of construction, owning your data isn’t just a luxury; it’s a necessity. So, be the boss of your data, and take charge by using a system where YOU have control of the data.
At Inspectly we’ve made it our mission to help and support construction businesses around the world with documenting their work and keeping their data safe. Our solutions are made in collaboration with construction workers and engineers, who spend their time out on the construction site.
Do you want to know how we can help you and your business? Get a free demo of Inspectly.