An overview of software integrations and why your construction business needs them

Have you ever wondered if there’s a better way to manage your online apps? You may have thought, “It’s nice to have everything online, but I still have to spend time adding the same information in several platforms.” It’s tedious work no one wants to do and creates a potential risk of mistakes – but it’s critical to the success of your business, so you do it anyway.

What if we told you there’s a simpler method for transferring data between software? That there’s a way to ensure your apps talk to each other, and you don’t have to be stuck with repetitive manual tasks that create the possibility for errors?

Sounds too good to be true, right? Well – it’s not!

Software integrations make it possible for all your project and business management platforms to work together – making your job easier. Here’s an overview of what integrations are and how they work, so you can start using them today and get back to the work you really care about.

What is an integration?

An integration is the process of combining different parts into a complete system, often to improve functionality or efficiency. In software, this means combining different platforms or apps in order for them to work together seamlessly as a single unit. This is often done to streamline processes and ensure data is transferred automatically.

An example of an integration would be connecting your Buildertrend account with QuickBooks Online, so your financial information is conveniently saved in both places.

How do integrations share information across platforms?

Oftentimes, integrations are connected using an API or application programming interface. This interface allows different software to send and receive information. By building integrations on APIs, you can connect your software and use them together.

All the integrations available on Buildertrend’s newly revamped Marketplace (coming soon!) are built on APIs. This updated integration experience will allow for the flow of information to and from apps and devices in real time. In other words, your apps will be able to speak to one another.

Who should be using integrations?

Software integrations can be useful for any organization that uses multiple software tools to make their work processes more efficient. Integrations, if used correctly, can help to reduce manual data entry, limit inaccuracies and increase productivity. Business owners who want to optimize their workflow should consider using software integrations.

Why use software integrations in your construction business?

Using software integrations – especially cloud-based ones – is not only a great way to solve the issue of isolated data, but it’s also an ideal way to ensure your processes can grow with your company. As your business expands and you add more projects to your queue, you’ll need systems that can support you. Your needs will continue to change over time, and with integrations, you’ll have the option to adjust functionality along the way.

For construction business owners like you, using software integrations will help to improve efficiency, reduce errors, streamline workflows and increase productivity. You might have a software solution for accounting, one for project management and one for CRM – by integrating them, information will be shared across platforms, saving you time and money. Having all your systems work together will also help you start jobs quicker, reduce the risk of error through double entry and improve communication among team members.

What are the top software integrations to consider?

You may be surprised that you’re probably already using platforms that could be working together to save you time. When thinking about adding or implementing integrations to improve project management for your construction business, start by considering these categories.

Customer relationship management

CRM platforms are software solutions that help businesses manage interactions with customers and potential customers. They typically provide tools for managing customer data, tracking sales and automating marketing efforts.

Examples include: HubSpot, Salesforce, Mailchimp and Pipedrive.

Document storage and productivity

These platforms are digital tools that allow users to store, organize and collaborate on various types of documents and files online. These platforms often offer features such as document editing, version control and file sharing features to help increase efficiency of day-to-day tasks.

Examples include: Google Drive, Microsoft OneDrive and Dropbox.

Measuring and estimating

These types of software allow users to accurately measure and estimate various aspects of a construction project, such as rooflines and property outlines.

Examples include: HOVER, RoofScope and EagleView.

Accounting

Accounting platforms allow businesses to manage recording invoices, expenses and payments. It typically provides features such as bookkeeping, invoicing, payroll and tax management to keep track of finances.

Examples include: QuickBooks, Xero, Sage and MYOB.

How does your Buildertrend account integrate with other apps?

You heard it here first – an all new Buildertrend Marketplace is coming soon! We’re building a hub where you can access and install all software integrations that are compatible with your Buildertrend account. Look for an announcement in the near future.

By connecting all your platforms, you’ll help ensure your critical project information is always up to date – no manual data entry needed.

Not yet a Buildertrend user? You can learn more about all of the top-notch features, integrations and other services by scheduling a demo today!