When you think of GPS technology, the first thing that comes to mind is most likely “Turn-by-Turn” driving directions that help you get from point A to Point B most efficiently and quickly. Definitely, it is one of the most common uses of GPs technology, but that’s only the tip of the iceberg compared to the overall potential of GPS. This is especially true, particularly in specialized work environments such as construction sites.
GPS technology allows big construction companies to locate and track equipment in real time. Moreover, when connected to other latest technologies like construction software known for its cloud-enabled feature, it does great wonders – making the process of gathering and assessing information and location-based data easier and seamless. The two technologies are truly a perfect combo!
In our blog post below, discover how GPS shapes the industry, including its key applications. We will also share some of the top features you must consider when deploying GPS software to your business.
How GPS Shapes the Construction Sector?
Advances in technologies continue to impact the construction sector through the years. Today, many business owners from the construction industry embrace the most cutting-edge technologies that help them get a valuable edge over their competitors. Some of these technologies include BIM, drones, construction scheduling software, GPs, and more.
We will tackle GPS, short for Global Positioning System. This amazing modern technology offers real benefits to the many project managers in the construction sector who are looking to increase productivity and improve overall operational efficiency. Also, GPS has different types that offer amazing solutions available for powered assets, unpowered assets, and vehicles. To conclude, this technology lends itself to various key applications on construction sites of all sizes and projects of all scales.
Key Applications of GPS in the Construction Sector
1. Fleet and equipment tracking
GPS can show the real-time locations of any construction equipment in use anytime, which is very useful when a project manager is not physically present. Apart from the location tracking, you can also study how every equipment and vehicle consumes fuel. The convenience of remote tracking is particularly helpful for large-scale projects that often cover multiple locations and many miles.
2. Equipment Maintenance and Safety of the Workers
GPS technology is not only limited to location alone. As a matter of fact, it helps you track the current usage of your construction equipment and determine if any of the equipment needs to be overextended on the site. Here, you can lessen the downtime of the overused construction equipment and then schedule maintenance checks. Know that scheduled maintenance checks ensure that your construction workers are using the right equipment, which helps in preventing possible accidents.
GPS is known for its features that ping hazard notifications whenever a worker enters high-risk spaces like areas with power lines. With all this going on, GPS can inform construction site managers if anybody spends too much time in high-risk spaces.
3. Theft Prevention
When there are cases of theft, the GPS tracker for heavy equipment can help you find and locate it for easy retrieval. Even GPS technologies can notify you once heavy equipment leaves the construction site perimeters. This level of security is particularly necessary for construction projects that deploy rented equipment. Disputes can be avoided, and you do not have to worry about spending additional expenses due to loss.
If you are about to rent, you will benefit from GPS tracking because it will be easier to track every single time.
4. Data-based resolution
Not every client you will have will going to be satisfied with your services or the work you have done for them. It is unfortunate but very true. Clients often have expectations; sometimes, they feel your construction team could have performed better or completed the project quickly. These are the normal situations that happen every time.
In the cases like these, you can provide clients with critical data from your GPS tracking to support your reasons. When you bill your client at the end of the project, you can show the number of machinery, equipment, and vehicles used during the project development, the hours your crew has spent to get the work done, and others. Providing the data is a simple, effective way to secure proper payment and satisfy your customer.
Likewise, if one client tries to win the argument and claims that specific tasks and deliveries are not performed on time, your evidence can prove otherwise because you have data straight from your GPS devices. Amazing right?
5. Productivity Level Assessment
Your construction workforce can wear a GPS tracking device at work. Different types of GPS tracking devices are now available such as wearable techs like watches, wristbands, clip-ons, and many more.
These devices will help you stream real-time data on your worker’s activities around the site. Basically, it enables you to track their general whereabouts, especially their productivity and performance. Using GPS trackers positively affects the progress of your construction workforce and ultimately impacts your company’s bottom line.
Should you choose to install GPS trackers on your employee’s smartphones rather than providing them with wearable devices, you must show them exactly how to activate and deactivate the software.
What Features Should Your GPS Solution Include?
If you opt for GPS, select the right one to receive the maximum benefits of using this technology on the construction site. This section will dive into some of the best features your GPs tracking solution must include.
Keep these key features in mind:
1. Maintenance alerts
It can be tough to determine and keep track of your equipment, especially the ones that must undergo regular maintenance. Make sure to pick a GPS solution that allows you to schedule preventative maintenance based on key factors like engine hours, time period, mileage, and more. By taking advantage of some of the best GPS features, you can easily prevent possible breakdowns, improve time management in construction and even minimize downtime. This helps in lowering fuel costs and determining behaviors that cause breakdowns.
2. Asset Utilization Reports
This particular feature enables you to reduce overhead costs and optimize your assets. Tracking data like idling time and fuel consumption not only allows you to right-size your fleet, but also allows you to determine which of the assets you have are underused and must move to other sites with higher demand.
3. Geofencing
If you do not know, Geofencing uses GPS to create this virtual boundary of a real geographical location. The boundaries referred to as geofences allow for easy detection of theft and illegal asset movement. GPS, with this feature, sends alerts whenever your construction equipment crosses a particular geofence without authorization.
4. Anti-theft properties
If ever the equipment goes missing, recovering your assets is important and should be done faster. Having a GPS solution with impressive anti-theft features can help you prevent theft and recover your assets in a timely manner.
The Importance of Consent
It is undeniable that integrating GPS technology into your construction company’s everyday process offers tremendous benefits. These solutions prove to minimize waste and maximize overall performance significantly.
However, before you begin using GPS and even other solutions you would like to consider, like construction time tracking software, it is crucial to implement best practices and get permission first from your current workforce.
Your crew may feel the presence of intrusion if you force these technologies on them without offering a clear, complete explanation. So, deliver a proper briefing ahead of time to fully explain the software – how it works, why you choose to deploy it to your company, your processes, operations, and all areas. Always be open to feedback and take note of their reaction to your decision.
The last thing you ever want to do is to alienate your construction workforce and leave them feeling suspecting and distrusting towards you. So, make sure to be considerate of your workforce while being rational about your decision at the same time.
GPS and Other Top-tier Solutions for Your Construction Business
The construction sector will always be the same – involving countless moving parts. Good thing that the uses for GPS in the industry are numerous and consistently increasing through the years. Make sure that you invest in the right GPS solution that can assist you in managing every stage of your project, from monitoring asset tracking equipment, and ensuring the safety of your construction team onsite.
If you want to level up your way of managing all stages of your project, you can merge two construction solutions at the same time. Integrate your chosen GPS technology with only one Pro Crew Schedule.
Pro Crew Schedule is a leading construction process improvement software in the market today. This project management solution has everything you need for a project management tool. It is cost-effective and can maximize safety and efficiency the same way how GPS does. And most importantly, it has inventory and scheduling features – the only construction technology offering these two features in one platform.
Imagine the level of tracking and security you can achieve when you combine these two technologies. Ultimately, you get the best of both worlds!
