WHAT IS A PLUMBERS SECRET WEAPON?
by Brad Fallon
A lot has happened since I became a Plumber 32 years ago.
Back then, Bob Hawke was Prime Minister, mobile phones were the size of a brick and the average price of a home in Sydney was $152,500.
As plumbers, we’re able to work far more efficiently due to advances in:
TOOLS AND PRODUCTS!
One big change is the plumbing products we use now. Plumbing technology has advanced, which often makes the job quicker and safer.
We used to weld a lot of pipes, but now we use a tool called a B-Press to crimp the fittings onto the pipe so that it’s safer, quicker, and more effective. We rarely weld anymore.
These types of changes are a big positive for the plumbing industry. We are always looking for ways to make the job safer for staff as well as customers.”
But, the biggest change, and our secret weapon is:
TECHNOLOGY!
Now, I have iPads in each ute, and we use ServiceM8 which is a job management system. ServiceM8 allows me to book jobs in a calendar, allocate jobs to staff, create quotes and invoices, take photos, communicate with customers, and it automates many of these functions. iPads and iPhones have become one of our most used tools of the trade!
These changes have been revolutionary in changing the customer experience.
That old complaint of tradies being terrible at managing their jobs is a thing of the past.
To survive in business, tradies have to embrace technology, communicate well and prioritise organisation. These aspects of running a business are just as important as completing jobs of a high standard. I love keeping my customers happy, so this technology has really helped me achieve my goals!”
One of the biggest changes we’ve had to navigate is how contactable everyone is now.
WE ARE SO CONTACTABLE!
With mobile phones, we can reach anyone, anytime. As an emergency plumber, it certainly makes it easier to get hold of an urgent part and call staff for updates on jobs.
On the other hand, 30 years ago, we were able to work without phone calls interrupting us.
We have recognized the need for instant answers, and providing that is important to us, so we’ve had to put systems in place so we can give people answers quickly while not interrupting important jobs.
HOW?
We have some automated services that help us with this and a team! So, while technology has caused the interruptions, technology has also provided the answers!
We are proud we can respond quickly to enquiries and jobs, so overall, he believes being so much more contactable has been a positive change.
Looking for a new emergency or maintenance plumber, we’re only a phone call or an email away.
