Onsite Consulting: A behind-the-scenes look at tech construction training

“The biggest reason we chose to bring in Onsite Consulting is because primarily we felt as if we were utilizing so much of Buildertrend, but every time we dug into it, we realized there was more and more,” said Nick Schiffer, owner of NS Builders in Boston.

Nick and his team are no strangers to construction management software. NS Builders has been a Buildertrend customer for years – exceeding industry standards and solidifying itself as one of the best within the construction industry.

Only seven years into business, NS Builders has more than 130,000 Instagram followers, and their construction projects are recognized for a deep commitment to quality and detail. Settling is never an option for a crew as ambitious as this.

That’s why Nick’s team enlisted the help of Buildertrend Onsite Consulting construction training. It was time to take things to the next level – and they knew better defined processes through tech could pave the way.

Brett Jones, an onsite consultant, flew out to Boston and visited with the entire NS Builders team for two days. Together, they tackled common pain points for construction projects and found smart software solutions. It was all about taking time to get everyone in one place and unlock greater value from Buildertrend’s digital tools.

“Getting everyone in the room and standardizing the processes in which we want to run the business allows us to be ten steps ahead of the competition,” Nick said. https://www.youtube.com/embed/xm6H3dbqaKk

We wanted to hear from Brett, too, for a deeper look at what other teams can expect if they’re considering Onsite Consulting and construction training programs.

Here’s what he had to say:

When does a construction team know they need Onsite Consulting?

Brett: A customer needs Onsite Consulting construction training when they want to implement Buildertrend’s construction management software the right way, the first time. Often, it’s a case of you don’t know what you don’t know, and that’s where the consultant steps in to provide clear direction for implementation based on your company’s process. Hiring a Buildertrend consultant is similar to subcontracting a plumber, electrician, or excavator – you do it because they have a particular skill set that saves you time and money rather than if you were doing it yourself.

Should the whole team be involved in the onsite construction training program?

Brett: We work with whomever the business owner feels is critical to the discussion of implementing Buildertrend. Some like to involve everybody within the company, including field crew, superintendents, project managers, sales reps, bookkeepers and accountants. Others like to take a ‘top-down approach’ and let the new process trickle down from their management team.

Once a team commits to onsite construction training, what’s the first step?

Step 1: Account audit and training program planning

Brett: Prior to coming to a customer’s office, we perform a comprehensive account audit where we figure out what’s working, what’s not and discuss how we’ll implement Buildertrend into their processes. We also make sure we have all the relevant data built out in their account so that our time on site is being utilized in the most efficient and effective way possible. The consultant then formulates an agenda for the two-day onsite visit. This will outline what we’ll cover, when we’ll cover it and who should be there based on their role within the company.

What happens once you’re onsite for the construction training?

Step 2: Collaboration and communication

Brett: Welcome to the show. This is where we create a collaborative environment for the shareholders of the company and their team. Not only do we walk through each facet of Buildertrend and discuss functionality, but we clearly identify standard operating procedures.

We also communicate the importance of Buildertrend to their team, including their responsibilities within Buildertrend and how that contributes to the overall success of the company. This is typically when we see a lot of lightbulb moments occur where team members start to understand how Buildertrend was designed to function and how it contextualizes their operation.

What comes after the onsite construction training program is completed?

Step 3: Ongoing customer support by Buildertrend’s Onsite Consulting team

Brett: We can’t expect perfection and for our clients to hit the ground running the next day. That’s why we have time built out to ensure team members are adhering to the new processes and holding each other accountable. This follow-up period is when we develop a workflow outlining your entire company’s process and address additional pain points should they arise. This is debatably the most important part of the service, as nothing can replace the need for continued education.

What’s the biggest difference between Onsite Consulting and traditional support?

Brett: The biggest difference between Onsite Consulting and traditional customer support is that we’re providing a comprehensive (start to finish) white-glove service. Buildertrend’s consultants demonstrate impeccable industry acumen, understand the various types of companies within it and the manner in which they do business. This is Buildertrend’s most proactive and intentional service for companies looking to implement construction management software in a cost-effective and timely manner.

NS Builders has been a loyal customer now for several years. They aren’t new to Buildertrend. Why is it important for customers like them to still consider onsite construction training and consulting?

Brett: I’ve consulted 100-plus builders over the last two-and-a-half years, ranging from brand new Buildertrend customers to those already using the program for 12 years. For most, it’s often a case of understanding what Buildertrend is at its core. Buildertrend is not always a simple add-on for a company, such as Zoom or Microsoft Teams. Buildertrend is the backbone of a complex, technologically hindered industry that requires comprehensive and continuous education. Everyone learns and implements Buildertrend at a different pace, but we have the solutions and resources available for all types of companies looking to take their company to the next level.

Move your business forward faster with Onsite Consulting and construction training programs

NS Builders proves Onsite Consulting construction training isn’t just for those new to construction management software. It’s for any team that wants to get more bang from Buildertrend.

If you want to be like NS Builders and maximize your tech potential, get started with Onsite Consulting today.