Construction workers may not be accustomed to using a computer at the construction site. Compared to PDAs, PCs require a certain level of background information because the use of applications and peripherals is more complicated. Because of their easy to use interfaces and small sizes, PDA devices are suited better for the construction environment. Zero boot time and instant data connectivity are other strong points for PDAs.
Construction workers seldom have an office where they keep records of their contacts, their addresses and phone numbers. Additionally, asset management is virtually nonexistant, because there are no tools for that. Therefore, companies with multiple construction sites suffer from inefficiency and underutilization of assets because of communication failures. Numerous construction sites have to have a wide selection of tools that are not necessarily needed all the time because sharing of them is inconvenient and time consuming. In addition, duplicated processes and extensive paperwork increase administrative costs.
Mobile solutions in everybody’s pocket can make the construction business more effective. Workers are able to access the corporate database to locate tools and utilities needed at the construction site. Using a mobile terminal, they plot the new location of all the assets they use and move. This way, all employees can access the location of the closest assets when they need them. As a result, redundant assets can be eliminated and use of the existing ones is optimized.
Construction workers are able to manage their personal contacts, calendar and messaging applications using a mobile terminal. Each evening, they log digital reports to the central system, describing activities and working hours. These reports are automatically processed and distributed to project management. This way, the management is able to identify and describe the progress of the project. Employees may have access to an online ordering system where they are able to place orders using a mobile device. This way, most routines of administration are taken care of by using a mobile terminal. The device is also a powerful communication tool because suppliers and management can always reach individual workers.