Automating Manual Processes Improves On-Time Delivery and Increases Productivity, Scaling Business for Growth
RP Construction Services (RPCS), partner of solar tracking pioneer Array Technologies, provides complete turnkey project design and mechanical installation services for solar tracker projects. A typical project consists of anywhere from 20 to hundreds of rows of photovoltaic (PV) modules, with 60 to 80 modules per row. Each project is installed by 10 to 40 people on-site who are driving foundation posts, installing racking, and mounting modules.
Inefficient Manual Processes Slowing Business
Before TrackVia, RPCS field workers used paper forms to collect data on their daily work and a laminated paper site map highlighted with colored dry-erase markers to track progress. The paper forms and site map were then photographed each day and uploaded to Dropbox along with photos of the site. The data was then entered into spreadsheets and emailed to office staff for project tracking and analysis. Project managers manually created reports for clients and executives, as needed. RPCS works on up to 20 projects at a time and the manual processes resulted in slow response time, project delays, poor reporting, and delayed billing to their clients.
With the help of Sol Rebel, a solar consulting services firm, RPCS identified that their manual processes were impacting the success of their overall business. They sought a mobile-ready solution to track productivity and daily work, provide instant status alerts, and integrate with Google Maps to deliver highly visual, custom reports, and insights.
After considering several vendors, RPCS and Sol Rebel selected TrackVia for its fast implementation time, Google Maps integration, and real-time reporting with color coding.
Building and Implementing a Custom Solution in Weeks
With TrackVia, RPCS and Sol Rebel built and implemented a custom workflow application in eight weeks. The application helped them consolidate project documentation, time-tracking, and photos that were previously stored in Microsoft Excel and scattered across other personal systems, such as Google Drive and Box. They also created work dashboards according to each user’s role, such as crew, crew chief, and executive.
For data collection in the field, workers now use TrackVia on their mobile devices — eliminating the need for paper forms and rekeying data after-hours. It also sends automated reminder notifications for overdue data entry, as well as prompts workers when data is entered incorrectly or missing. Additionally, the app uses a custom built Google Maps integration to visually track the status of each row to see if foundation posts have been driven, racking installed, or modules have been mounted on a given row.
The data RPCS collects is used in color-coded reports so everyone from the C-suite to the field knows project status in real-time with a simple glance. Reporting is also used for more accurate forecasting and allocation of resources.
Scaling the Business for Growth
Since implementing TrackVia, RPCS has improved their data collection, data integrity, and gained real-time visibility into project progress at their sites. RPCS can now take on more projects, improve its on-time delivery, and quickly identify when issues arise, including when projects are behind schedule. With the TrackVia app and guidance from Sol Rebel, RPCS is scaling to manage its growth, improving customer satisfaction, and minimizing unnecessary costs.
How Can Building a Custom App in Weeks Help You? Get Started With a Conversation
TrackVia is the leading workflow platform — allowing you to create business led and IT-approved custom apps in just weeks. For more information on creating a workflow app for your organization, contact us today.
About Sol Rebel
Sol Rebel provides consulting services to solar contractors, owners, and developers to improve business results and optimize project delivery. Founded by Randy Batchelor, Sol Rebel’s mission is to mitigate climate change and build resiliency to the effects of climate disruption with maximum return on investment for its clients.
Industry
Energy
Sector
Solar Installation Services
Scope
400 MW
Projects
225+ Completed in USA