Secrets of a super user

At Buildertrend, we have a special name for our customers who know the platform from top to bottom. We call them Super Users. And rightfully so. Our Super Users have learned the ins and outs of all features and use them all to see the biggest benefit for their company.

So, what does it take to become a Super User?

To answer that question, we went straight to the source. Steven Frosch, a Buildertrend Super User, took some time to give us the inside scoop on how he mastered our platform and uses it for continued business success.

Can you tell us a little bit about yourself and your company?

My name is Steven Frosch and I am the VP of Construction for Kootenia Homes and Michael Lee Homes – two custom home building companies building in the Twin Cities of Minnesota. Kootenia Homes has been building for over 50 years and is deeply rooted in craftsmanship – truly custom building. Michael Lee Homes is focused on crafting custom homes as unique as our clients. Our mission is to guide them through the process of building, giving them the tools to create their dream home.

Nice to meet you, Steven! Can you tell us how you got started with Buildertrend?

Roughly six years ago when I joined the company coming from a major tech retailer. I was astonished how far behind the tech curve the construction industry was, especially our company. We were able to build plenty of houses with great detail, but we had an antiquated process, so there was a lot relying on single paper copies. Visiting the NAHB International Builder Show in 2014, I had a goal to find a new solution and meet one-on-one with over 10 tech solutions companies. Ultimately, Buildertrend then, and now, has the most comprehensive tools top to bottom.

Would you consider yourself a Super User?

I don’t really consider myself a Super User. This was a nickname jokingly given to me by Paul Worth after attending Buildertrend University and reviewing how many ways we use the platform. We simply try to integrate as many features within the platform as we can to assist with all aspects of our building process.

What would you say are the top three features that contribute to your success?

1. Daily Logs: Communication, communication, communication! Keeping subcontractors and clients informed.
2. Change Orders: This has greatly increased our ability to customize due to the ease of use and capability of customer sign-off. This ensures there are no surprises for homeowners and that we, as a business, are being paid for our work.
3. Schedule: Arguably the most used day-to-day feature and since day one, the single best enhancement for project management offered by the platform. Utilizing Templates, To-Do’s and PO’s linked to the Schedule ensures a consistent process. If Buildertrend was a football team, the Schedule would be their QB.

How has mastering Buildertrend allowed you to improve your customers’ experiences?

Communication and transparency are the two biggest improvements. There are many features we use but allowing transparency and constant communication for our customers has increased our customer satisfaction, and their likelihood to recommend us.

What tips do you have for fellow Buildertrend customers who want to become Super Users?

The best advice I can give any company onboarding and integrating Buildertrend into their company and/or utilizing more features is simple. Take it one feature at a time. It’s taken us years to utilize the tool to its fullest extent. Looking back, for many of the functions we have said, “why didn’t we do this sooner?” If you try and take on too much too quickly, the odds of failure and frustration increase. It’s a process, and you have to trust that in the end, the work will pay off.

So, what’s your favorite part about working with us?

Even with watching the company rapidly grow over the past six years, the customer support is as good as the first day we started. Buildertrend is open and receptive to requests and improvements with the product to allow it to be as well rounded and specifically suited for the unique differences that our company requires. Having two different companies, the needs for each can vary. Buildertrend is adaptable and can be set up for each company’s unique needs.

And how has Buildertrend made a difference in the way you run your business?

It is a daily tool, no different than a hammer and nails. The largest impact is the communication abilities for all parties involved (our staff, subcontractors and clients). This has greatly improved our overall customer satisfaction. Customers always know what’s going on with their projects, which has improved the customers likelihood to recommend us to family and friends.

What would you tell those who are on the fence about using Buildertrend?

It’s the single best investment for your building company. It’s a tool, and it’s only as good as how you use it. It takes time to learn and master, but it’s as beneficial as AutoCad is to hand drawings, as QuickBooks is to paper ledgers and as the nail gun is to hammer and nails. Yes, you can achieve any of these tasks with the original method, but why, when you have the ability to improve upon them?

Become a Buildertrend Super User

Do you want to master Buildertrend and become a Super User like Steven? Now is a great time to get started. Make the most of your extra downtime and take advantage of the webinars and training resources we have available online.

All it takes is that first step. As Steven said, it takes time, but is well worth the effort.

Dare to be the best and let us help you! Using the Buildertrend construction management software sets you apart from other builders by ensuring your clients have quick and clear communication, seamless approval processes, and most importantly, projects that are done on time. We want you to take advantage of the tools, convenience and support that Buildertrend has to offer you, your team and your clients.

If you’re new and ready to jump on the Buildertrend train, feel free to give us a call! We’re always here to help and would love to schedule a demo with you today.