Tankersley Construction Behind the Business: The importance of record keeping for better client relationships (Part 4 of 5)

Behind the business series: In part four of our Tankersley Construction Behind the Business series, we explore how construction management software provides an avenue for fool-proof record keeping – so builders can protect their business and their clients.

In the world of construction, where precision and transparency are crucial, Tankersley Construction has embraced cutting-edge technology to bring their project management processes to new heights.

With a commitment to excellence and a focus on client satisfaction, co-owners Steve and Heather Tankersley realized early on that construction management software was the key to building a better business.

“I can’t imagine running our company without cloud-based software that keeps everything in one place,” Steve said. “As you grow as a company, you’re going to have more and more projects that you’ve finished, that have warranties and liabilities for you as a contractor. It’s really critical to have a record of what you did in that job.”

Although the Tankersleys found they were able to enhance internal workflows with construction software, they also found it was a fool-proof way to document everything that happened on a project. And this in turn led to more transparency with their clients – and more protection for their business.

From project inception to completion, we’ll explore how technology empowers builders to keep track of vital project details with efficiency.

What is construction documentation software?

Construction documentation software is a platform designed to help construction pros manage and organize project information more effectively.

Creation, storage, retrieval and collaboration of important files and information is made easy with software like Buildertrend. It plays a crucial role in improving communication, reducing errors, building trust with clients and enhancing overall project management.

With construction documentation software, builders can:

• Store documents: Keep blueprints, specifications, contracts, permits, photos and change orders in one, easy-to-access place. You can also view previous file versions to track important changes over time.

• Collaborate with stakeholders: Team members, subs and homeowners can work on documents simultaneously and share feedback in real time.

• Automate workflows: Streamline approval processes to ensure the right people review and approve documents on time.

• Manage change orders: Control change orders throughout a construction project, and look back when there’s a discrepancy to ensure you and your client are protected.

• Create an audit trail: Access a detailed history of document changes, approvals and messages to ensure accountability and transparency.

Tech like this strengthens client relationships because they can easily access everything in an online portal – keeping them in the loop so they have less questions and can see updates in real time.

By investing in construction documentation software, home builders and remodelers can enjoy peace of mind, knowing important information is securely stored in case of emergency.

Using software to build trust and transparency with clients

Tankersley Construction leverages technology to strengthen client relationships, demonstrating that in the world of construction, success is not just measured in bricks and mortar, but in the trust and transparency built with each project.

“When we sit down with a client or prospect, we use Buildertrend to sell our projects. I pull up a project that’s similar to theirs and I show them how much the project cost, how we scheduled it and how long it took. By the time we get through that process, it’s not a sales pitch. It’s showing them how we operate. They’re asking ‘Hey, where do I sign?’” Steve said.

The Tankersleys know things can go wrong on a project. But having everything from daily project logs to change order contracts stored in an online platform, they feel safe knowing it’s all there if they need to look back. Those records are proof of what really happened, and that’s important when it comes to client trust.

“There are a lot of good builders out there, and a lot of them produce a very high-quality product, so it can be really hard to differentiate builders from one another. What differentiates us is, number one who we are, our personality, what we believe in – and how we always go the extra mile. We’re there for our customers beyond a paycheck,” Steve said.

Tankersley Construction’s approach to residential builds stands out because they put emphasis on communication, collaboration and real-time updates with their homeowners. The adoption of construction management software has not only enhanced their internal workflows, but it’s also become a cornerstone in their commitment to providing clients with a transparent and honest experience.

Bringing residential construction to the 21^st century with tech

“Clients want information in real time. So, if we’re going to keep elevating the industry and keep making it better, the people that are going to survive are the people who will embrace technology. Commercial construction is 10-15 years behind almost any other industry, residential [construction] may as well be in the Stone Age,” Heather said.

Clients drive the construction industry, and without them, there’d be no moving forward. The best way to keep them happy is to have clear and quick communication and to be as transparent as possible. This builds trust, and trust builds protection – for them and for you.

By following the Tankersley’s approach, we can welcome a new era of construction management – where innovation meets tradition, and every detail matters.

Schedule a demo to see Buildertrend’s document management tools in action. Our software is designed for home builders and remodelers looking to scale their business through enhanced communication, documentation and client satisfaction.

Check back for the fifth installment of our Behind the Business series with Tankersley Construction.