Business Operations

How Tolerating Paperwork Is Holding Your Business Back

person using mobile device for data collection
Posted on by Danny Kanev

How Tolerating Paperwork Is Holding Your Business Back

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We all have small problems at work we put up with on a daily basis:

  • A web page that is still functioning but needs to be updated
  • A co-worker who is always five minutes late to meetings
  • A desk drawer that always sticks exactly when you need a paper clip

Counselors and coaches call these small issues “tolerations” – things that could be eliminated, but instead we put up with them. 
We tolerate these situations because we’ve convinced ourselves they’re not that bad, or because we think exploring or implementing an alternative would be too difficult or time-consuming.

Quit Tolerating Paperwork

Let’s give you a concrete example:

What would your job be like if you didn’t have to deal with paper forms?

It’s hard to imagine, isn’t it? 

  • No more lost, delayed, or illegible paperwork
  • No more waiting on information from the field team
  • No more manually typing information in order to get reports and information
  • No more costly errors, unexpected problems, compliance issues, or interrupted work time

We want to show you what your business would look like without the tolerations of paper forms.

 Let Us Digitize Your Business

There are two main problems with tolerations, and paperwork is a perfect example:

  1. Tolerations create a constant level of stress and frustration that is low-level, but cumulative
  2. While dealing with the toleration at the moment might seem minor, we’re missing out on potential benefits long-term

Many companies tolerate paperwork problems because it’s the way they’ve always done things. But going digital is surprisingly simple, and can have hidden benefits for your business.

GoCanvas transforms the way companies like yours work every day with digital forms and work process management solutions that make communication seamless. We’ve built a library of forms for essential use cases in multiple industries, including construction, fleet management, and field services, or you can design your own.

And you don’t have to imagine – we want to show you exactly what taking your business digital would look like.

All you have to do is upload a paper form your team uses – a picture or a scan are fine – and we’ll turn it digital for you – for free.

Really. It’s that easy.
Take a look at the future of your business, no strings attached.

More Customizations

After we’ve transformed your paperwork, one of our solutions experts will walk you through the new digital version so you can see exactly how it would work for you and your business. 

Want to make changes or customize your form even more? No problem. 
GoCanvas has easy-to-use drag-and-drop tools so you can build whatever you need – no coding or complicated systems required.

Picture the Future

We can’t fix your sticky desk drawer, but we can transform your work life by getting rid of one big toleration: paperwork. 

Taking your business digital means taking your business to the next level with:

  • Cost and time savings
  • Increased productivity
  • Faster communication with field teams
  • Enhanced reporting from digital data
  • More complete records
  • And more!

Without having to tolerate paperwork and all its delays and errors, you’ll be free to focus on what matters: your business.

Let’s get started digitizing your business today.

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About GoCanvas

GoCanvas® is on a mission to simplify inspections and maximize compliance. Our intuitive platform takes care of the administrative tasks, freeing our customers to focus on what truly matters – safeguarding their people, protecting their equipment, and delivering exceptional quality to their customers. 

Since 2008, thousands of companies have chosen GoCanvas as their go-to partner for seamless field operations.

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Five Common Hazards in Oil and Gas Extraction and How to Address Them

Five Common Hazards in Oil and Gas Extraction and How to Address Them

The oil and gas industry employs more than 500,000 Americans and offers investors big potential profits, but it’s also among the most dangerous. The good news? The industry’s safety record has been improving year over year, due in part to the adoption of new technologies. Find out how mobile apps are changing the way oil and gas worksites manage safety hazards with our new eBook.

What can you learn in this eBook?

  • Using mobile to avoid struck-by/caught-in/caught-between injuries
  • Focusing employees on safety training and equipment maintenance
  • Preventing worksite falls, fires, and explosions with technology

Complete the form to access your copy.

5 Reasons Why I Use GoCanvas Mobile Apps in my Safety Business

Posted on by Danny Kanev

5 Reasons Why I Use GoCanvas Mobile Apps in my Safety Business

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I’ve worked in the safety & health field for the better of 20 years, inspecting thousands of job sites and facilities. I, like most people, used a clipboard and notepad. I’d walk around writing down what I found.

When I started in safety, this was the only way to do it. We’d then have to regurgitate all the data into something others could understand and act upon. As you can guess: it was very, very time-consuming. I would spend almost twice as much time creating the reports as I did conducting the inspection.

Now, I still conduct inspections frequently, as do my staff. We’ve ditched the clipboard and pens: We all use our smartphones or tablets. Prior to finding GoCanvas, we were already using electronic devices. Basically, it was an electronic clipboard and pad of paper. This method still required a lot of additional work back at the office, but at least some of the work was cut and pasted.

So why did I switch to GoCanvas?

1. Done, the First Time

Inspections happen in the field, away from the office. Before, I would write out all my notes in the field, go back to the office, type out all the notes again, download pictures and try to match each picture to the finding. It was slow, painful, and inefficient. 

Using GoCanvas. I type out my notes, take the picture in the app, load GPS coordinates and email it to myself. If anyone else needs to see it immediately,  they can be added to the distribution list. Do it once, finish it out in the field, and easily find the submission later.

2. Easy to Share with Anyone, Immediately

Inspections can be sent to whomever, once complete. This is great, especially if I have a finding that creates an imminent risk to life or health and needs immediate attention. After the inspection is complete, I can go back to the office to edit/modify/clarify the text, add regulator references or company standards that apply to the finding. Then, I send it out to the people responsible for correcting the issue or for review.

3. Productivity Increases

Since it’s done once, operations have become more productive. With all the details and pictures automatically grouped together in the finding, people can find the location and easily identify what needs to be corrected.

I don’t have to go out to the location again and point to the deficiency. I don’t have to worry about mismatched photos or unreadable text. We save time by preventing these common misunderstandings and mistakes. GoCanvas makes the work go more smoothly.

4. Following-up Increases

With GoCanvas API web services, integrating submissions with existing systems becomes instantaneous. All the inspections are downloaded to my database for tracking.  No additional inputting of inspection data. Just a few clicks and the information is downloaded. I can see what inspections have been conducted, who conducted them, where they were conducted and what the findings were.

GoCanvas makes it easy to track inspection findings from beginning to end. Plug this information into an executive dashboard and management can see all this too. This easy access increases accountability. Better accountability increases compliance and in turn, a safer work environment.

5. Sharing Information Across Organizations Becomes Simple

From my database, I can then create reports for management. It’s easy to track and trend the findings. I can pull out pieces of the inspections to create safety bulletins to share with other sites, clients, or departments.

Using mobile apps has saved my organization much time and in turn, saved me a lot of money. It helped my customers as well. I deliver a better product at a better rate. As an efficient and effective organization, my customers tell more people about my work growing my business.

Ready to Know More?

Check out the apps Mark uses in his Essential Safety Resources Store

Sign up for a free trial today and see how GoCanvas can impact your business.

No fees, no obligations!

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About GoCanvas

GoCanvas® is on a mission to simplify inspections and maximize compliance. Our intuitive platform takes care of the administrative tasks, freeing our customers to focus on what truly matters – safeguarding their people, protecting their equipment, and delivering exceptional quality to their customers. 

Since 2008, thousands of companies have chosen GoCanvas as their go-to partner for seamless field operations.

Check out even more resources

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Explore how Forte Supply Chain Solutions partnered with GoCanvas, combining in-house industry expertise with our white-label mobile forms to revolutionize their processes.

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Integrate with over 1,000 software applications. Enhance your GoCanvas experience by syncing real-time data to one or all of your business tools.

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We’ll help you put together the right solution for your needs.

Let’s Build A Plan Together

How to Simplify and Improve Your Current Construction Business Workflow

Posted on by Danny Kanev

How to Simplify and Improve Your Current Construction Business Workflow

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Construction businesses are always looking for ways to automate workflow processes. There are several ways to do this, but one of the best is by simplifying and streamlining your current business processes. This can be done in several ways, but here are a few tips to get you started:

 5 Steps to Streamline Your Construction Business Processes

1. Streamline Communication

One of the best ways to improve your construction business workflow is to streamline communication. For example, GoCanvas can be utilized as a single platform to improve on-site communication and collaboration between team members. GoCanvas allows all members of your construction team including stakeholders, subcontractors, and more to collect data, fill out forms and inspections in real-time to avoid delays in communication.

2. Simplify Tasks

Simplifying time-consuming tasks allows your construction team to focus on the task at hand and avoid getting bogged down in complex processes. One way to simplify tasks is by using a construction project management software that automates tasks such as tracking change orders, manual processes, and invoicing. This can free up your team’s time so they can focus on more important tasks, such as project planning and execution.

3. Reduce Risks

Reducing risks and inefficiencies can be done by implementing safety protocols and investing in quality control measures. Strong protocols should be implemented for each stage of the construction process. For example, you can create a safety plan that outlines the procedures for dealing with accidents and injuries. You should also invest in quality control measures, such as regular inspections and testing, to ensure that your construction projects are up to code.

4. Plan Ahead

Pre-planning allows general contractors to create a project timeline and schedule that contains all the necessary project information needed for completion. This can help avoid delays and disruptions in your construction workflow. By planning ahead, you can also anticipate problems and find solutions before they cause delays in your project.

5. Optimize Your Fleet

Optimizing your fleet helps you reduce costs and improve your construction business workflow. For example, you can use a construction management software to track your fleet’s location and utilization. This information can help you optimize your routes and schedules to reduce fuel costs and travel time. You can also use this data to identify underutilized vehicles so you can sell or lease them. By following these five steps, you can make your construction business more efficient and improve your bottom line.

How Going Paperless Can Improve Construction Project Management

Going paperless is a significant enhancement for the construction industry. Construction companies no longer have to worry about paperwork and spreadsheets thanks to GoCanvas digital solutions. GoCanvas provides a dashboard that keeps finances, approvals, document management, checklists, and team communication all in one place. Some of the many benefits of going paperless include:

  • The ability to optimize schedules and travel routes at the click of a button
  • The ability to monitor jobsite progress and collect data in real-time
  • The ability to manage your workforce in one centralized location

GoCanvas Can Help Improve Your Construction Business Operations

GoCanvas offers a suite of ready-to-use digital templates and apps for construction industry project management that can be accessed from any device, anytime, anywhere. Contact us to learn more about how GoCanvas can improve your workflow management.

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About GoCanvas

GoCanvas® is on a mission to simplify inspections and maximize compliance. Our intuitive platform takes care of the administrative tasks, freeing our customers to focus on what truly matters – safeguarding their people, protecting their equipment, and delivering exceptional quality to their customers. 

Since 2008, thousands of companies have chosen GoCanvas as their go-to partner for seamless field operations.

Check out even more resources

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Three Ways GoCanvas Helps with Safety Toolbox Talks

Posted on by Danny Kanev

Three Ways GoCanvas Helps with Safety Toolbox Talks

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Safety should be the number one priority of every construction company. Daily safety meetings and toolbox talks are integral to educating workers on best work practices and staying compliant with regulations for every job and project.

Regular safety toolbox talks, sometimes referred to as daily briefings or tailgate meetings, are a great way to reinforce safety basics, introduce new policies, and inform workers about changes to the jobsite and working conditions that may have occurred since their last shift. These daily meetings can also serve as a means to provide training on new rules in order to stay up to date with state and federal OSHA standards.

But toolbox talks also come with daily challenges. Collecting attendance and capturing meeting notes from multiple worksites is daunting. Plus, you’ve got the headache of making sure the details of federal or state regulations are communicated consistently across several locations. You also need to be able to document all of these details and provide reports that all of your employees have been properly informed to ensure compliance with the standards of every project.

Fortunately, GoCanvas Safety has the solutions to each of the problems that plague your crew for safety toolbox talks.

Accountability

With GoCanvas Safety, your team can complete safety documentation from any mobile phone or tablet. Using required attendance logs, you can collect the names and IDs of every employee at each worksite to ensure they are present for the latest safety information. Plus, you can capture details related to the jobsite location, project manager, as well as date and time stamps for every briefing.

An integrated signature capture field means you can have employees verify their attendance and you can collect signatures from your foreman and any safety representative who makes an onsite visit, ensuring compliance measures are met for every meeting.

Consistency

Every day on a jobsite brings new challenges. GoCanvas Safety helps your supervisors and safety managers deliver consistent messaging at every meeting. Required fields and checklists ensure that the proper information is conveyed and collected for every toolbox talk, so they don’t have to scramble to keep their crews informed and safe.

Visibility

Monitoring the delivery of policy and regulation details across multiple worksites is a struggle. Not only do you have to decipher handwritten paper forms, but you have to hope that any details are not missed as they are input into your home system. 

GoCanvas Safety means no more waiting for paper forms from daily briefings to be returned at the end of the day or managing documents from multiple worksites. 

Analytics Dashboards remove the hours-long wait times for daily reports. With real-time visibility of your current Certification Programs (including expiration dates and IDs) and active incident reporting, you can quickly share safety program data with customers, fulfilling SLA requirements so you can get jobs done faster while keeping your team safe.

Looking to streamline your safety data collection and ensure compliance from your toolbox talks? With GoCanvas Safety, you have real-time visibility into your safety program and can quickly share results with customers with the click of a button. Click here to learn more!

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About GoCanvas

GoCanvas® is on a mission to simplify inspections and maximize compliance. Our intuitive platform takes care of the administrative tasks, freeing our customers to focus on what truly matters – safeguarding their people, protecting their equipment, and delivering exceptional quality to their customers. 

Since 2008, thousands of companies have chosen GoCanvas as their go-to partner for seamless field operations.

Check out even more resources

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3 Advantages of Automated Safety Reporting

Posted on by Danny Kanev

3 Advantages of Automated Safety Reporting

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Creating a Seamless Safety Process through Automation

An unsafe workplace is not an option worth considering. However, creating a safe environment can be difficult and requires a lot of focus and attention to every detail as a simple oversight can lead to disastrous consequences. Although this may seem like a daunting task, you are not alone! Safety Professionals are finding ways to reduce time-consuming tasks, like data duplication with the help of automation and technology across the globe. This allows them to focus their time and energy on more important matters like proper safety gear and clear fire exits with the peace of mind that compliance and prevention records are all submitted, stored, and analyzed exactly how they want them to be.

As the safety industry continues to become more automated, it is important to understand how this might impact your business and how to stay ahead of industry trends. The movement toward paperless companies and automated systems is becoming more and more important. Recently, OSHA passed an electronic submission requirement for forms, like their OSHA 300  and OSHA 301 report. Automation is the future of the safety industry and is already drastically improving the way safety reporting is currently handled on the field now.

Here are three ways automating your safety reporting processes can improve your business:

1. Consistent Reporting & Improved Accuracy

Simple errors such as misplaced forms, messy handwriting, or incomplete submissions can result in significant penalties. By automating the way reports are completed, you’re able to streamline the way the forms are filled as each field tech is submitting the form through the same channel and including the same information. Automating this process ensures you’re receiving every submission and it is stored securely in the cloud where you can quickly search and access it as a pdf or CSV. you can automate your processes even further and have your data populate a backend system such as QuickBooks, Viewpoint, or Sage.

There are plenty of things that could affect the accuracy of the information reported. By eliminating manual data transfer and the potential for illegible handwriting, you decrease the possibilities for human error drastically. It doesn’t matter how many asterisks or underlines are used, forms still come back incomplete, and often, by the time the office gets it back, it is too late to fix. Automating these forms removes the headache of tracking down incomplete information and ensures top-quality information every time. Accurate reporting relies on having the best data possible. By improving the quality of the data you’re collecting, you can make the best decisions for your business.

 2. Data Visibility

Time and time again we talk to safety managers who are having difficulty tracing their progress quarter to quarter or even year over year. In the safety industry, being able to track where improvement is needed and what is working efficiently is important to the safety of every employee. Whether your company is interested in getting better visibility into employee behavioral reports or motor vehicle inspection data, it is important to be able to easily pull those reports. Manual reporting can be time-consuming and restricts the ability to pull or find this information easily and accurately.

Automating the way data is collected and where the information is sent allows businesses to make critical data-based decisions within minutes. Whether you’re interested in automating your paperwork to have an easily accessible electronic filing cabinet or if you’re looking to create custom safety dashboards data opens the doors to endless possibilities and is the driving force in creating strategic decisions.

3. Minimized Risk of Safety Incidents and Fines

Safety and compliance are important in every industry and business. You may see it as a chore or a necessary evil but we all know how crucial it is to protecting lives and keeping projects on track. Whether you are in construction or the food industry there are a variety of quality measures that need to be met to keep both front-line staff and customers safe on a day-to-day basis. Not meeting these requirements can result in massive fines resulting in the loss of exorbitant funds, or worse, injury to another person. Therefore, it is critical to maintain accurate and up-to-date records of all reports.

Staying compliant doesn’t have to be difficult or time intensive. By automating the way forms like the OSHA 300, JSA/JHAs, equipment inspections, incident reports, and vehicle inspections are filed, you ensure all submissions can be found through a simple search and that all actionable can be dispatched in real-time. Don’t let simple filing errors or lost forms slow your business.

Compliance will always be a crucial part of any safety professional’s career. As the rules and regulations get more and more complicated, make it easier for your company to stay compliant and improve the data you’re collecting. Take your safety standards to the next level by creating real-time results and solutions with GoCanvas.

Now you can easily modernize the way you are capturing information on or off-site.  Whether you are looking to improve your data visibility or simply improve the safety culture on-site, we hope you’ll consider using GoCanvas as your data collection tool. Sign up for GoCanvas free and give our platform a try today!

Interested in learning more?

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About GoCanvas

GoCanvas® is on a mission to simplify inspections and maximize compliance. Our intuitive platform takes care of the administrative tasks, freeing our customers to focus on what truly matters – safeguarding their people, protecting their equipment, and delivering exceptional quality to their customers. 

Since 2008, thousands of companies have chosen GoCanvas as their go-to partner for seamless field operations.

Check out even more resources

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Smarter, Faster, Safer: Improving Safety Compliance with Mobile Technology

Compliance, there are many ways we talk about it. A necessary evil, a chore, a struggle, or a critically important part of business. We all know how crucial it is, helping save…

Read the eBook
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Waiver forms are a type of legal protection used by businesses to reduce their liability and risk. This type of agreement between a business and its customers is used…

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Closeup of a handshake.

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We’ll help you put together the right solution for your needs.

Let’s Build A Plan Together

The Complete Guide to Digital Data Collection for Your Small Business

Posted on by Danny Kanev

The Complete Guide to Digital Data Collection for Your Small Business

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Information and data: you can’t avoid these words online. Big businesses are even learning to anticipate their customers buying behavior. Information has become crucial for not only competitive advantage but also for staying relevant. Collecting information has become easier than ever with technology. All sorts of businesses need to gather data, including small businesses.

Is Paper Dead?

In today’s digital era, many people are moving away from paper forms—and for good reasons. Paper forms tend to be slow, bad for the environment, require redundant data entry, and are easy to damage, lose, or misfile. More than a pain, they’re hurting your business financially. PWC reports that up to 11% of paper forms get misfiled or lost every year. If you lose just 5% of your invoices a year that lengthens your sales cycles, and you lose the opportunity to work with more customers or provide additional services. Paper forms also require extra data entry and storage, costing you thousands of more dollars a year in redundant work and storage costs.

Paper forms were the best solution for the 20th century. But today? They’re only holding you back.

Transform Your Small Business with Digital Data Collection

In 2014, this race to collect information felt like a game only open to the big guys: the businesses with money and resources for data analysts and hundreds of developers. If you’re a plumber, a landscaping service, or even a daycare facility, you’re trying to keep up with the day-to-day. The algorithms and tech side of the story can seem overwhelming and unavailable to small businesses.

With digital data collection on the rise, small businesses can track their data collection with the simple use of a digital data collection device. These devices can transform your workflow and transform your small business.

Digitally Gather Quantitative and Qualitative Data

If you have a mobile device and a computer, you have all the hardware you need to get started. Businesses in all sorts of fields can collect better information on smartphones and tablets. Some of the benefits include:

  • Collect more information (Photos,GPS, Signature, Calculations)
  • Share information in real-time
  • Eliminate redundant data entry
  • Validate information externally with location or time and date stamps

Digital Data Collection Methods for Small Business’

The mobile forms experts at GoCanvas created a FREE 80+ page guide to help you get off the ground running: The Ultimate Guide to Digitally Collecting All Types of Data for Your Small Business. Chapters include:

1. Productively Collect Customer Data for Your Business

Helping business owners understand the full benefits of mobile, and how you can tailor it to your business needs is very important. Consumer data is important to collect. Collecting customer data through digital data collection methods like data analytics will help you better understand your target market, improve your customer service, and make more informed strategic decisions.

2. Utilize Data Collection for Workflow Decision-Making

Discover what information you need, what to lose, and how it can grow your business. Too much data can be just as crippling as too little. Collect only the business information you need, and use it to create new opportunities, improve your workflow, and make better decisions for your small business.

3. Choose the Right Data Collection Device for Your Marketing Strategy

Ruggedized to consumers, there’s a huge variety in devices. Ensure you get the right devices, and policy, for your business. Finding the right mobile device for your small business data collection needs is important to your success.

4. Save Money By Going Digital

Bonus Chapter: Going mobile is just one way to save time and money. We’ve got tips and tricks to keep you focused and using your time wisely.

Enhance Your Small Business Workflow with GoCanvas Mobile Apps

Enhance your workflows and customer experience with GoCanvas. Mobile apps and forms help you ditch the paper and transform your business workflows. Learn more about how GoCanvas can benefit your business. GoCanvas offers a variety of mobile apps and digital forms to meet your specific business needs.

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About GoCanvas

GoCanvas® is on a mission to simplify inspections and maximize compliance. Our intuitive platform takes care of the administrative tasks, freeing our customers to focus on what truly matters – safeguarding their people, protecting their equipment, and delivering exceptional quality to their customers. 

Since 2008, thousands of companies have chosen GoCanvas as their go-to partner for seamless field operations.

Check out even more resources

Manage Risk for Oil and Gas Companies With a Risk Assessment Checklist

Today, the challenges faced by the oil and gas industry are considerable. Effective business leaders and managers must thoroughly understand them to determine…

Read the blog

Solutions to Waste Management Issues For Oil & Gas Companies

Waste management compliance is important in every industry. The oil and gas industry, in particular, has a strong risk of waste emissions…

Read the blog

4 Ways Big Data is Transforming Oil and Gas

Oil and gas companies are getting smart about using the data they collect to gain insights and manage people, equipment, and worksites more effectively…

Read the eBook

Connect with an Expert Today.

We’ll help you put together the right solution for your needs.

Let’s Build A Plan Together

Reducing Errors in Construction Management 

Posted on by Danny Kanev

Reducing Errors in Construction Management 

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Mistakes on the construction site are costly, time-consuming, and frustrating for construction workers, construction managers, and most importantly, the customer. When a construction worker has to return to the job site to fix an error, it takes them away from other projects and potentially compromises the entire work schedule. 

In worst-case scenarios, mistakes can even lead to the cancellation of a construction project. With that in mind, we’ve put together a brief list of tips you can take to reduce common errors that occur in construction management. We’ve also answered a few commonly asked questions about error reduction in the construction industry. 

Create a Quality Control Process

A solid quality control process can significantly reduce the number of reworks and result in higher profit margins for construction companies. When your construction crew delivers flawless craftsmanship on the first go around, the customer is happy, and you can move on to the next project. 

With that in mind, successful quality control in construction requires the following steps: 

  1. Define what it means to ‘complete’ the project and ensure the crew understands and gives input. 
  2. Implement a detailed inspection plan.
  3. Use and share checklists to ensure all crew members are on the same page. 
  4. Document problems, fix them, and notate corrections. 
  5. Learn from errors and adjust your quality control process as needed. 

Use the Power of Communication

Successful construction management requires buy-in and communication from the entire team, from the electricians to the concrete pourers, the roofers to the plumbers, and everyone in between. Everyone must be on the same page. With that in mind, communicate expectations, inform crewmembers of the quality control process, and allow them to provide feedback.

Train Construction Workers 

Lack of adequate training can result in catastrophic safety issues on the job site. The better a construction manager trains their staff, the more likely they will complete the job right the first time. Regular training helps ensure consistency and a uniform process. When everyone on the crew has the same expectations, they hold themselves accountable. 

Use Construction, Repair, & Improvement Apps to Automate Processes

The larger the construction project and the more crew members, the higher the chances of unavoidable mistakes. Fortunately, you can remove uncertainty and ensure accuracy in specific areas by implementing automated processes. 

GoCanvas Construction Apps help you streamline otherwise time-consuming processes like generating daily reports for work orders, change orders, time cards, job costs, etc. Further, our construction, repair, and improvement apps allow contractors, maintenance crews, and construction managers to have safety-related forms at their fingertips. 

This means less wasted time and real-time data sent where it needs to go at the push of a button–which increases productivity and reduces downtime. 

How Can You Reduce Errors Commonly Used in Construction Management? 

In addition to the tips listed above, there are countless other methods of reducing construction management errors. They include but are not limited to the following: 

  • Plan out work from beginning to end before you get started. 
  • Communicate project priorities and expected delivery dates. 
  • Use high-quality products and never sacrifice quality. 
  • Document mistakes (even one-offs) to identify and correct negative trends. 

How Do Construction Managers Keep Track of Employee Hours?

Keeping track of every crew member’s hours using traditional time sheets is time consuming and likely to result in mistakes. Further, construction time tracking solutions like Excel worksheets, head counts, and honor systems are rarely adequate. In most cases, the best way to keep track of construction worker hours is to harness the power of mobile data collection apps for construction. Learn more below. 

What is a Data Collection App in Construction? 

There are many types of data collection apps for the construction industry. At GoCanvas, our mobile construction applications enable construction managers, contractors, and similar to: 

  • Create easy-to-deploy mobile forms that are customizable, simple to update, and compatible with all major mobile devices and platforms.
  • Improve the speed and accuracy of data collection efforts.
  • Quickly share information with project managers, supervisors, crew members, contractors, and similar.
  • Monitor construction sites and job hours in real-time.
  • Identify areas in need of improvement.
  • Reduce liability and risk.
  • Store your information in the secure GoCanvas cloud network.
  • And so much more.

Are you ready to improve the efficiency of your crew and get the job right– the first time? Try GoCanvas for free today – no credit card required. Roll out your first mobile forms in a matter of minutes.

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About GoCanvas

GoCanvas® is on a mission to simplify inspections and maximize compliance. Our intuitive platform takes care of the administrative tasks, freeing our customers to focus on what truly matters – safeguarding their people, protecting their equipment, and delivering exceptional quality to their customers. 

Since 2008, thousands of companies have chosen GoCanvas as their go-to partner for seamless field operations.

Check out even more resources

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The Ultimate Guide to Quality Control Inspections

Managing a construction project is a complex and stressful process. Among other things, you have to coordinate project team members, materials, and equipment and ensure that contractors are not afflicted by the potential risks and hazards present at the construction site. That said, quality means different things to different people which is why you should…

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Constructions Digital Transformation

Your competition is finding faster ways to capture data and get critical insights from the field into their existing systems. In short, they’re not going bigger, they’re getting smarter. In this 15-minute broadcast on the construction industry’s digital transformation, find out why the trend is to modernize workflows – and how you can stay ahead of the curve…

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A electrician inspecting equipment.

See how VIP Lighting optimized efficiency with GoCanvas

VIP Lighting is a retail lighting and electrical maintenance business that services over 10,000 retail locations all over Australia and New Zealand. Before GoCanvas, VIP Lighting had two separate systems that were impossible to integrate, leading to inefficiencies. GoCanvas made it easy to integrate their systems into single, centralized platform…

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Create Your Own QR and Bar code Scanning in GoCanvas for iOS and Android Devices

Posted on by Danny Kanev

Create Your Own QR and Bar code Scanning in GoCanvas for iOS and Android Devices

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When it comes to your business, productivity is key. A QR and barcode scanning option can make life a lot easier for you and your employees by streamlining work orders, tracking inventory, and much more.

How Business’ Have Utilized GoCanvas’ Scanning Technology

Our scanning technology has been a popular feature for many types of industries such as the construction industry, the service industry, the petroleum industry, the transportation sector, and the energy sector. Here’s how some our customers have utilized QR and barcode scanning to fulfill their business’ needs:

  • Inspections
  • Work Orders
  • Timecards
  • Daily-Weekly Reports

The Benefits of QR and Barcode Scanning for Business Productivity

GoCanvas offers, for FREE, the ability to add Barcode & QR code scanning to any of your GoCanvas mobile forms. Retail, warehousing, field services, manufacturing and other businesses reap productivity benefits in using QR and barcode scanning including: 

  • Error Reduction: Scanning data is much more accurate than having users manually enter data.
  • Time Savings: Scanning dramatically reduces the time your employees spend gathering information, especially when doing inventory.
  • Elimination of Paper: GoCanvas mobile forms store all of your data in the cloud, eliminating the need for paper records.
  • Improved Customer Service: By speeding up work order and inventory processes, you can improve your customer service.

How to Set Up Scanning Functionality to Your GoCanvas Forms

Here are the steps to add QR and barcode scanning functionality to your GoCanvas forms.

  1.  Log on to the GoCanvas website and open the forma you wish to use.
  2.  Add a QR/Barcode field to the screen within the form where you would like to use this feature.
  3.  Name the QR/Barcode field whatever you like, “Scan Barcode,”; and press the “Enter” key.
  4.  Make sure to press “publish to device” to make your changes live on your smartphone or iOS device.

The good news? Your mobile device already has a built-in barcode and QR code scanner/QR and barcode reader, which is (the camera app) so, you don’t need to download any software.

Start Using Your Custom QR Code & Barcode On Mobile Devices

Once the desired form has the QR and barcode field(s) added, you are ready to move on to your smartphone or tablet and start using this functionality.

On your device, you will launch and log in to the GoCanvas client as usual and then launch the form you just added the QR or barcode field to. You will now see the text “Capture Barcode” below the barcode field.

Create your own mobile apps with GoCanvas!

Click the “Capture Barcode” button

  • You will now see a green square in the center of the screen.
  • Line up the product’s barcode or QR code within the square to capture.
  • The square will turn green or red (depending on the device) and the code will be captured like taking a picture. You don’t have to do anything more than line up the code within the box and wait for it to capture.
  • Once the code has been captured you will see the screen go back to your GoCanvas form and the Barcode field will be populated with the code.

You can supercharge your application by having your code pull up a product catalog, price, patient record, location history, or anything at all. Learn more about this feature and info on using QR or Barcode scanning with Reference Data.

Integrate GoCanvas’ QR and Barcode Scanner Functionality to Your Digital Solutions Today

Scan QR codes and barcodes in real-time and save the hassle of manually inputting information. The GoCanvas QR and barcode scanner functionality integrates with your existing mobile forms and applications to make data collection faster and more accurate. You can also use our code scanner for all types of QR and barcode formats for inventory management, asset tracking, timekeeping, customer check-in, and more! GoCanvas forms are available on iPhones and Android phones and our solution can be found in Google Play, Amazon, and Apple app stores. Learn more about setting up your own QR codes and barcode functionality today.

Contact Us

If you have any issues or need assistance setting up this or any of our features please don’t hesitate to contact us.

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About GoCanvas

GoCanvas® is on a mission to simplify inspections and maximize compliance. Our intuitive platform takes care of the administrative tasks, freeing our customers to focus on what truly matters – safeguarding their people, protecting their equipment, and delivering exceptional quality to their customers. 

Since 2008, thousands of companies have chosen GoCanvas as their go-to partner for seamless field operations.

Check out even more resources

business people discussing project

Gown Your Business with GoCanvas Partner Program

Join our Partner Program and gain instant access to our global network of thought leaders and industry experts enjoying shared collaboration and collective success.

Learn more
Forte Supply Chain Solutions Partner Video

Partner Snapshot: Forte Supply Chain Solutions

Explore how Forte Supply Chain Solutions partnered with GoCanvas, combining in-house industry expertise with our white-label mobile forms to revolutionize their processes.

Watch VIDEO
Closeup of a handshake.

GoCanvas Integrations: Streamline your Workflow

Integrate with over 1,000 software applications. Enhance your GoCanvas experience by syncing real-time data to one or all of your business tools.

View integrations

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Automate Data Entry by Scanning Barcodes & QR Codes

Posted on by Danny Kanev

Automate Data Entry by Scanning Barcodes & QR Codes

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In today’s business world, data entry is a crucial task. It’s often the first step in any process and can be very time-consuming. There are many ways to automate data entry, but one of the most efficient methods is by scanning barcodes and QR codes.

Mobile Form Barcode Field - Canvas

Efficient QR Code & Barcode Technology

When building out your mobile data collection platform with GoCanvas, it’s important to understand all the ways that you’re able to streamline your existing data collection processes.

The beauty of the GoCanvas platform is that it allows you to leverage the power of the mobile devices you already own. You can now take photos, collect GPS coordinates, capture payments, and more without the need for additional 3rd party tools.

But one of the biggest overlooked features is the ability to scan barcodes and QR codes using your mobile device’s auto-focus camera.  This built-in functionality allows companies to quickly scan codes into their forms without having to manually type out 12+ characters. This scanned data can even be linked to other parts or sections of your mobile forms so that it automatically pre-populates additional data within your mobile forms using  Reference Data. We will dive more into this below.

Improve Business with QR Code and Barcode Data Entry

Do you commonly fill out lists or tables full of data? Does it normally involve typing in long names, descriptions, item codes, etc? If you answered yes to any of these questions, then QR and Barcode Scanning from GoCanvas is right for you! There are essentially two ways that the GoCanvas QR and Barcode Scanning feature works.

Utilize QR & Barcode Readers for Standalone Data

The first way is without connecting the QR or Barcode Scanning field to reference data and just using it as a standalone data input field. This means that you would simply scan barcodes using your device’s camera and have the numbers or text data (QR codes) populate in that specific data field within your mobile form. Simple and easy. No manual data entry is involved.

Connect QR & Barcode Scanners to Reference Data

The second way would be to connect the Barcode Scanning field to Reference Data. By doing this, when a code is scanned, that data can then pre-populate other reference data-connected fields within the mobile form. This can drastically reduce data entry time for a report since all that is needed to be done is the scanning of the barcode.

A prime example would be if you were logging equipment at the end of the day. Instead of having to manually type in five lines of data for each piece of equipment, I would simply scan the item’s barcode and the matching Reference Data would auto-fill in the corresponding data fields.

​Barcode Field - Scanning Barcode

Reasons to Use QR Code & Barcode Software

Top use cases for GoCanvas QR and barcode scanning include:

  • Facility Inspections
  • Safety Equipment Checks
  • Product Merchandising
  • Item Lookup / Site Inventory
  • Transportation/Logistics – Shipping

And click here to learn how the global shipping company, Royal Cargo, saves over $144K annually by using GoCanvas mobile forms with barcode scanning.

How to Implement Code Scanners to Your Mobile Forms

Implementing QR and barcode scanning within your new or existing mobile forms such as IOS or Android devices is extremely easy. To get started, simply head over to the GoCanvas App Builder and begin editing the form you wish to add this feature too. On the left side of the Builder, you will see the field “Barcode” that you can add to any screen of your mobile form. Simply add this field to the section you wish to grant QR and barcode scanning abilities and you’re all set.

Propelling Your Mobile Data Collection Management System

Your business will now start to quickly see the benefits of using QR and barcoding scanning, which include:

  • Quicker data entry
  • Increased data accuracy
  • Reduction in inventory errors
  • Improved workflow
Back to Top

About GoCanvas

GoCanvas® is on a mission to simplify inspections and maximize compliance. Our intuitive platform takes care of the administrative tasks, freeing our customers to focus on what truly matters – safeguarding their people, protecting their equipment, and delivering exceptional quality to their customers. 

Since 2008, thousands of companies have chosen GoCanvas as their go-to partner for seamless field operations.

Check out even more resources

business people discussing project

Gown Your Business with GoCanvas Partner Program

Join our Partner Program and gain instant access to our global network of thought leaders and industry experts enjoying shared collaboration and collective success.

Learn more
Forte Supply Chain Solutions Partner Video

Partner Snapshot: Forte Supply Chain Solutions

Explore how Forte Supply Chain Solutions partnered with GoCanvas, combining in-house industry expertise with our white-label mobile forms to revolutionize their processes.

Watch VIDEO
Closeup of a handshake.

GoCanvas Integrations: Streamline your Workflow

Integrate with over 1,000 software applications. Enhance your GoCanvas experience by syncing real-time data to one or all of your business tools.

View integrations

Connect with an Expert Today.

We’ll help you put together the right solution for your needs.

Let’s Build A Plan Together
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