As the world deals with the coronavirus pandemic, people in all sorts of industries have to find ways to adapt. One sector that is seeing a lot of change is home contracting.
Home contractors are a reasonably traditional bunch. They tend to stick to old ways, especially regarding technology. However, the pandemic has forced them to change the way they work.
Here are five ways home contractors are using digital solutions for their problems.
Building Information Modeling (BIM)
Digital technology is making it easier for contractors to create designs. One particular digital tech that’s helping them is BIM. It’s an intelligent 3D model-based process that gives contractors the insight and tools to more efficiently design a building or particular infrastructure.
BIM has become the new standard in AEC project delivery because it offers a more efficient and collaborative way to work. BIM-based processes allow AEC professionals to:
- More easily identify potential problems early in the design process
- Make informed decisions based on data-driven analysis
- Reduce rework and change orders
- Improve coordination among disciplines
- Increase productivity and profitability
Home contractors using BIM can use these benefits to create more efficient and profitable construction projects. It can also make their projects a lot safer. It’s one of the best digital solutions that make home contracting jobs much easier.
Websites
The internet is a powerful tool that can help home contractors in many ways. Some jobs in contracting can be pretty niche. Take carpet-related jobs, for example. Americans require an experienced carpet fitter considering that most Americans want a carpet in their home. But many Americans usually don’t know how to find them besides classified ads. These professionals can reach a much wider audience and get more work by having a website on the internet. They can also get paid directly through their websites, reducing the need to collect client payments.
Another way the internet can help contractors is by giving them access to a wealth of information. For example, if a contractor is struggling with a particular problem, they can search for it online and find solutions from other professionals.
This was not possible in the past. Then, contractors had to rely on their experience and knowledge. Now, they can get help and advice from others with just a few clicks.
Cloud-Based Solutions
The cloud is changing the way businesses operate, and it offers many benefits, such as increased flexibility, scalability, and collaboration. And these benefits are not just reserved for big companies. Small businesses, like home contractors, can also benefit from using cloud-based solutions.
Cloud-based solutions allow home contractors to:
- Access their data from anywhere
- Share files and documents with ease
- Work on projects with team members in different locations
- Benefit from real-time updates
- Have a more efficient workflow
The pandemic has forced many construction-based businesses to move to remote work. Cloud-based solutions have made this possible for home contractors. As a result, they can continue working on projects, even if they are not in the office or the field.
Social Media Marketing
About 90% of the population in the United States has a social media account, making social media marketing an excellent way for home contractors to reach out to potential customers. It’s a cost-effective way to market their business and connect with their target audience. In addition, social media platforms are a powerful tool that helps contractors stay relevant in today’s digital world.
Many contractors use social media to offer deals or posts about recent jobs. However, social media marketing is not just about posting updates. It’s also about engaging with potential customers and building relationships. As a result, home contractors who use social media marketing can benefit from increased brand awareness and more leads.
Cryptocurrency
Virtual currency is a type of currency that uses cryptography for security. Virtual currencies such as cryptocurrencies are decentralized, not under governmental control. For example, Bitcoin, the first and most well-known cryptocurrency, was created in 2009.
People can use cryptocurrency to buy goods and services. However, it can also be used to invest in new business ventures. For example, for home contractors, cryptocurrency can be a great way to get funding for their business. Some contractors have also accepted it as a payment method. It’s a secure way to pay for goods and services, becoming more popular in the country.
Technology has always been a part of contracting. However, the pandemic has forced home contractors to embrace digital solutions. These are various ways contractors are using technology to improve their business. Using these tools, home contractors can work more efficiently, reach a wider audience, and create safer construction projects.