Business Operations

Best Ways to Collect Data in Manufacturing

manufatcuring plant worker using tablet
Posted on by Caroline Brezovec

Best Ways to Collect Data in Manufacturing

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Data analysis is the heart of any well-functioning manufacturing company. Without accurate, real-time data, manufacturing plants are left in the dark about costs, areas that need improvements, quality assurance, employee production, and so many other valuable insights. 

With that in mind, the question is, “What is the best way to collect data in manufacturing?” The answer to that question depends on several factors, including facility size, the type of products manufactured, and resources. 

You can collect data via observation, surveys, end-of-month reports, etc. However, most Lean Six Sigma and Kaizen experts would agree that some form of real-time digital data collection is the best method. 

Continue reading to learn more about the best ways to collect data at your manufacturing plant and how GoCanvas can help. 

How is Data Collected in Manufacturing? 

Modern-day manufacturing involves a lot of machinery, software, calculations, and people. Depending on the type of facility, manufacturers can collect data in various ways, including but not limited to: 

  • IoT sensor integration. 
  • Supervisory control and data acquisition (SCADA).
  • Radiofrequency identification (RFID).
  • Machine integration. 
  • Paper forms.
  • Observations.
  • Surveys.
  • Document review (weekly, monthly, quarterly, etc.)
  • Microsoft Excel and other types of spreadsheets.
  • Manufacturing form apps.

While it is essential to collect data, the method of data collection is just as important. In the next section, learn why real-time manufacturing data is beneficial for all manufacturing plants regardless of size. 

Why is Real-Time Manufacturing Data Collection Beneficial? 

If a manufacturer wants to compete in a highly competitive space, they’ll need to improve operations to make it as lean as possible. That means making a product faster, better, less expensive, and more efficient than competitors. 

Collecting data insights from the plant floor can improve your business in the following ways: 

  • Better cross-department communication.
  • Helps implement lean processes and reduce waste.
  • Enhanced decision-making.
  • Optimized manufacturing processes.
  • Elimination of paper trails.
  • Reduced inaccuracies in data collection. 
  • Faster response time to issues.
  • And more.

What Improvements Can I Make to My Manufacturing Business With Data? 

Suppose your company uses a manufacturing mobile app for quality control and quality assurance. In that case, you can calculate errors committed per day,  the time it takes the average worker to complete a task, material costs, etc. 

Your team can leverage this data to continually improve your manufacturing process until your plant behaves like a well-oiled machine. Additionally, you can use data insights gained from manufacturer apps to: 

  • Improve safety.
  • Streamline productions efforts. 
  • Schedule employees at the right time. 
  • Identify trends and problem areas. 
  • Better understand training needs .
  • Identify, assess, and overcome challenges that hinder growth. 
  • Save time and money.

Learn how GoCanvas has helped thousands of companies streamline their processes and improve the bottom line in the next section. 

Try Go-Canvas Manufacturing Apps

Collecting data on paper forms or relying on observations to improve your manufacturing process can lead to unfavorable results. In competitive markets, the more data collection redundancies you have, the more time and information you lose. 

Our manufacturing form apps include countless templates to help streamline your data collection efforts and continuously improve operations. GoCanvas manufacturing templates are customizable, dynamic and help employees submit accurate data in real-time.  

You can use our manufacturing data collection apps to organize work orders, manage doc records, improve floor safety, and more. Browse our vast selection of manufacturing templates and make them your own. Try our manufacturing apps today for free – no credit card required.

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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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Connect with an Expert Today.

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

Let’s Build A Plan Together

Improving Your Manufacturing Workflow With Apps

manufacturing worker improving workflows with apps
Posted on by Caroline Brezovec

Improving Your Manufacturing Workflow With Apps

|

Have you ever wondered how manufacturing companies like Nvidia, SpaceX, Tesla, Intel, and Nike remain at the forefront of their industries? Two words: manufacturing workflows. 

These companies obsess over optimizing their manufacturing process. To create and maintain a near-flawless workflow, they collect a lot of data, analyze it, make improvements, and repeat the process over and over. 

If you want your manufacturing business to reach its full potential, one of the best places to start is by implementing apps to improve your manufacturing workflows. Continue reading to learn how. 

What is Workflow in Manufacturing?

A manufacturing workflow essentially details the step-by-step process required to create a product from start to finish. The workflow process begins when the plant receives raw materials and ends when the products are finished. A manufacturing workflow produces a repeatable process, producing consistent and high-quality end products when done correctly. 

Why is Improving Manufacturing Workflow Necessary? 

When a manufacturer monitors workflows, collects real-time data, and makes improvements based on their findings, they can reduce bottlenecks at an incredible pace. If you don’t monitor and continuously improve your workflows, you risk losing time, purchase orders, and damaging your company’s reputation due to bottlenecks in the production process. With that in mind, a few benefits of improving manufacturing processes include: 

  • Reduced incidence errors.
  • Improved data sharing.
  • Higher quality of products.
  • Reduced downtime.
  • More efficient employees.
  • Decreased manufacturing costs.
  • Higher rates of compliance.

An optimized workflow makes for happier employees, customers, and business owners. In the section below, learn how a manufacturing app can help automate your processes and save time. 

Steps To Improve Production Workflow

Tools like Microsoft Dynamics, Salesforce, and GoCanvas can help to improve workflow. However, you’ll still need to take a few additional steps to instill a strong culture of continuous improvement. 

Before using production workflow software, you should ensure that you set your factory and employees up for success by taking the following steps: 

  • Have the right tools and machinery.
  • Organize your tools and machinery in an efficient manner.
  • Keep your production equipment in top shape.
  • Brainstorm with management and employees to create streamlined processes.
  • Provide employees with adequate and regular training. 
  • Encourage open communication about production line issues and hidden bottlenecks. 

Once you’ve fully committed to the process of workflow management and optimization, you’ll be ready to introduce powerful workflow automation tools and manufacturing apps to take your process improvements to the next level. 

How Can a Manufacturing App Help Improve Workflow? 

GoCanvas’ Manufacturing and Workflow apps help to save you time, money, and a lot of unnecessary headaches. The GoCanvas selection of manufacturing form apps includes templates for manufacturing inspection reviews, work schedule templates, daily production reports, production process documents and so much more. 

Additionally, the GoCanvas Workflow app allows for: 

  • Real-time approvals.
  • Cross department and inner-team collaborations.
  • Powerful automation and access controls.

Are you ready to optimize your manufacturing facility’s workflows? Try GoCanvas For Free – No Credit Card Required.

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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

Best Ways to Collect Data in Manufacturing

Data analysis is the heart of any well-functioning manufacturing company. Without accurate, real-time data, manufacturing plants are left in the dark about costs, areas that need improvements, quality assurance, employee production, and so many other valuable insights.

Read the Blog

8 Ways Digitizing Your Manufacturing Equipment Maintenance Checklist Can Save Time

Digital checklists are essential for maintaining efficient and cost-effective operations. The key is to find the ideal tools to help you simplify manufacturing equipment maintenance in your facilities.

Read the Blog

Wastewater Processing: 8 Tips to Make Your Manufacturing Site More Sustainable

When it comes to wastewater disposal, manufacturers can place a significant strain on municipal water systems. The lack of proper waste management leads to sanitary waste, particularly in metropolitan areas’ water supply.

Read the Blog

Connect with an Expert Today.

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

Let’s Build A Plan Together

Wastewater Processing: 8 Tips to Make Your Manufacturing Site More Sustainable

woman processing wastewater
Posted on by Caroline Brezovec

Wastewater Processing: 8 Tips to Make Your Manufacturing Site More Sustainable

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When it comes to wastewater disposal, manufacturers can place a significant strain on municipal water systems. The lack of proper waste management leads to sanitary waste, particularly in metropolitan areas’ water supply. This has catastrophic effects on people’s sense of health, education, and economic growth. In fact, we can trace recent cholera outbreaks mainly to the widespread use of improper wastewater processing, including poorly constructed wastewater management facilities that can leach their contents into surrounding soil and informal pit emptiers that dump sanitation waste into open drains and the local water supply.

This helpful guide discusses how manufacturers can enhance their wastewater processing to make them more environmentally sustainable.

1. Operational Improvement

Equipment should undergo frequent checks to assess its current state, performance, and remaining usable life at a given facility. Older machines are less productive, more expensive to maintain, and thirstier for power than their modern counterparts. 

2. Reducing Disinfection Usage

Eliminating potentially dangerous chlorine disinfection systems is a crucial safety advantage of ultraviolet (UV) disinfection systems, while the systems’ low energy consumption is a welcome side effect. In place of chlorine, you can utilize a UV light disinfection system. This eliminates the need for expensive and sometimes dangerous chemicals. 

Electrocoagulation is a sustainable alternative to chemical coagulation, in which chemicals are introduced to the effluent to induce solid particles to agglomerate and sink to the bottom of a clarity tank. Apart from adjusting the pH, electrocoagulation does not require chemical additions. In contrast to chemical coagulation, which produces an abundance of potentially harmful sludge, electrocoagulation leads to less sludge that poses no danger. In fact, you can dewater this sludge without much effort. As an alternative to disposal, you can sell the dewatered sludge to agricultural businesses which they can use as a soil additive with organic fertilizers.

3. Conversion of Wastewater to Renewable Energy

Anaerobic digesters are another wastewater processing technique that converts wastewater into renewable energy. The methane that an anaerobic digester produces can generate electricity for the wastewater facility at a much-reduced cost. As a result of the total reduction in energy expenditures, the facility can become more self-sufficient.

4. Educating Staff on the Importance of Embracing Sustainable Solutions

The most effective way to achieve energy goals and uncover new avenues for efficiency is to educate treatment system operators on the connection between facility operations and energy efficiency. Operators will more likely recommend and adopt efficiency changes after asking for their views. Because they interact with the facility’s processes on a daily basis across all departments, staff members have unique perspectives to bring to the table.

5. Optimizing Aeration

Adding dissolved oxygen control systems and variable frequency drives in blowers and other parts of the air distribution system can reduce the power that blowers use while improving aeration. Around 50% of an activated sludge wastewater treatment facility’s energy goes toward powering the aeration system.

Suppose your current blowers are on the brink of breakdown. In that case, you may consider upgrading to a single high-efficiency turbo blower that you can adjust according to the dissolved oxygen concentration in the water. Is your diffuser system getting on in years? Upgrading to fine-pore or ultra-fine-pore diffusers on the grid can boost oxygen transfer efficiency and reduce treatment air requirements.

6. Upgrading Pumping Systems

By replacing outdated pumps with newer ones, you can save on both operation and upkeep over time. You can match pump speeds to flow rates to further reduce energy consumption using inexpensive and more reliable variable frequency drives. Wastewater treatment facilities typically feel obliged to pump water at rates corresponding to fresh wastewater’s arrival to minimize the need for storing water. In this situation, it is necessary to regulate the flow rate of the pumps.

It is important to keep in mind that not all approaches to flow management are created equal. Throttling valves, for instance, are often employed for flow control, as they create energy losses in the pipeline.

You can control water flow with little energy loss by installing a variable frequency drive (VFD) that rotates the pump’s shaft at the same speed as the water’s desired delivery rate. There will be some heat loss from using VFDs. The pump will also need to function effectively across the working range.

Are you wondering whether your system may need some tweaks and which solution would be appropriate for your facility? You can conduct an analysis to determine whether implementing a potential solution will provide desirable results. Note that pumps may waste energy if they aren’t working within their optimum parameters.

7. Recycling Essential Nutrients

Plants need phosphorus, which is a vital part of fertilizers. If your facility is using or considering biological phosphorus removal, you may want to look into the potential for making a high-quality commercial fertilizer. Lowering phosphorus loading in the recycling streams can enhance the plant’s sidestream performance and the utility gains a new income stream at no additional cost to operations.

8. Application of Advanced Green Technologies (AGTs)

As environmental consciousness rises and regulatory oversight tightens, the efficacy of specific traditional wastewater treatment methods is being called into doubt. Since current wastewater processing methods are inadequate, AGTs are being researched, evaluated, and used as eco-friendly replacements.

Bioreactors are the backbone of the most widespread advanced technology used for wastewater treatment. Bioreactors populated with sulfate-reducing bacteria (SRB) can recover precious metal sulfides by precipitating them as insoluble solids from metal-containing wastewater.

How GoCanvas Can Help

When you rely on informal checklists and training, you leave yourself open to oversights that may prove costly. GoCanvas can create official records of your business’s safety and compliance programs, standard operating procedures (SOPs), audit and authentication services, and security protocols.

GoCanvas believes data is too valuable to sit in storage. We can help in enhancing the efficiency and sustainability of your wastewater treatment so that you can return to doing what you do best. Our clients come first, and we provide high-quality customer service that will help make your manufacturing site more sustainable. Please don’t hesitate to contact us right away to request a demo and learn more about wastewater processing.

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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

Best Ways to Collect Data in Manufacturing

Data analysis is the heart of any well-functioning manufacturing company. Without accurate, real-time data, manufacturing plants are left in the dark about costs, areas that need improvements, quality assurance, employee production, and so many other valuable insights.

Read the Blog

Improving Your Manufacturing Workflow With Apps

Have you ever wondered how manufacturing companies like Nvidia, SpaceX, Tesla, Intel, and Nike remain at the forefront of their industries? These companies obsess over optimizing their manufacturing process. To create and maintain a near-flawless workflow…

Read the Blog

8 Ways Digitizing Your Manufacturing Equipment Maintenance Checklist Can Save Time

Digital checklists are essential for maintaining efficient and cost-effective operations. The key is to find the ideal tools to help you simplify manufacturing equipment maintenance in your facilities.

Read the Blog

Connect with an Expert Today.

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

Let’s Build A Plan Together

Improving Your Operations with Field Service Management Software

field service software
Posted on by Caroline Brezovec

Improving Your Operations with Field Service Management Software

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Whether you have two or 200 employees, your business’ success depends on their hard work. Passionate, motivated team players are the difference between surviving and thriving. But in field service, your employees are often far from the office. So how do you know which employees are carrying their weight? 

Time cards and field reports can be one way of trying to find out. But paper forms take time to get back, and are limited in information. Field Service Management software with mobile apps can improve your internal visibility and ability to make strategic decisions faster. Continue reading this article to learn how mobile apps built for the field can help with features designed to improve your operations and workflows.

Improving Your Operations with Mobile Apps: 3 Key Features to Consider

Field service management software has many applications and use cases. One important reason for many companies to implement the technology is to improve the data they collect from the field. The idea is to enrich the information collected in the field and make it accessible to view from anywhere, in real-time. Here are three key features that help you gain more visibility into your field operations with software:

Feature #1: Time and date stamps

Let’s say your paper work order says the work took three hours, but what if the customer only remembers the work taking two hours? This puts you in an awkward position with your customer and employee. By going mobile you can create more accurate records of hours worked. Simply open up a work order or service report, and the time is automatically entered. The app can even calculate time worked based on clocking in and clocking out. Time and date stamps ensure better accuracy and fewer issues for both invoices and payroll. Mobile time cards help businesses spend less on tracking employees and more on their actual work.

Feature #2: Image Capture

Sometimes, the work you need to do is obvious. You need to fix a major water leak or install a heating system. But for some businesses, like pest control, the work can be less obvious. Or if your work is technical, like pool maintenance, text can be confusing to customers. For the office, text isn’t verifiable. Adding pictures can be incredibly helpful for your business and customers. With one click, a mobile app gives you a great visual. It’s easier to show termite damage with a photo than with words. Visuals makes it easy for both your office and customers to understand. Photos educate clients and build trust in your work and analysis. Your business enjoys visual confirmation that work is either needed or was performed.

Feature #3. Dispatch

Sending out job information to field employees can be a hassle. Either they have to drive to and from the office between jobs, wasting time and gas. Or, they have to constantly check their email or phone for job information. How can you be sure that they get it, and follow through on the work? A dispatch system improves communication and provides more oversight. Dispatch with GoCanvas for Field Service Management can also track the progress of these appointments. The dispatch feature will show when employees opened the dispatch, when they started filling out the work order, and when it was completed. Sharing job information becomes easier, and you know when the job is done in real time. 

Oversight is never perfect. However, mobile apps allow you to have a better understanding of field employees’ work — not only when and where employees work, but also what they did. Being available in real time also helps you make strategic decisions about your workforce and ensure you have the strongest and most effective team.

Contact GoCanvas if you are ready to see how field service management software can help you save time and money (both in the field and in the office). We can share more of the features that make GoCanvas both easy to use and customizable to fit your unique 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.

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Three HVAC Maintenance Checklists that will Reduce Errors and Grow your Bottom Line

hvac worker on a mobile device
Posted on by Caroline Brezovec

Three HVAC Maintenance Checklists that will Reduce Errors and Grow your Bottom Line

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When completing repetitive work, it is all too easy to make mistakes that affect the final outcome. For HVAC technicians, so many errors within their daily tasks come from using outdated paper forms while completing a job. 

Inattention to detail, guesswork from trying to decipher previously completed reports, bad math- any one of these errors can hurt the long term performance and efficiency of HVAC systems, costing you time, money, and customer satisfaction.

Using these HVAC inspection checklists will prevent issues before they happen, so your technicians can collect comprehensive and consistent data at every job. 

HVAC Maintenance Schedule Checklist Mobile App

The impact of seasonal demands means that scheduled maintenance of HVAC systems can be a challenge. Technicians may become overwhelmed with emergency calls and visits, which can lead to regular appointments being rushed or falling by the wayside.

This HVAC Maintenance Schedule Checklist covers the key areas of a standard HVAC system including: condenser coils, electrical equipment, heat exchangers, unit efficiency, heat pumps, condensate drains, filters, ducts and more. This checklist ensures consistent review of systems at every visit, with fields to capture photos of air conditioning units as well as customer signatures. This will help your techs identify areas that need additional attention. 

Air Duct Cleaning Process Checklist Mobile App

When it comes to protecting air quality, it’s important to keep air ducts free from mold growth and other dangers that can result from dirty air ducts and poor vent cleaning. This Air Duct Cleaning Process Checklist follows the National Air Duct Cleaners Association (NADCA) air duct cleaning process, ensuring that all steps in the visual inspection and air flow testing are completed.

This mobile app features a comprehensive checklist for the ‘source removal’ method of air duct cleaning, as well as optional services such as filter replacement and dryer vent cleaning. Easily completed by technicians and air quality specialists, each vent cleaning checklist can be emailed to clients and saved electronically for your records.

Boiler Maintenance Checklist Mobile App

Routine maintenance and inspection of boiler systems require forms that can be reliably completed and updated to meet your business needs. This Boiler Checklist provides daily, monthly and weekly tasks designed for use as part of a routine boiler maintenance plan and boiler inspections.

With this checklist, you can dispatch job details directly to your techs’ mobile devices, so they are ready to go with customer information. It features sections for the boiler, burner, and related electrical equipment, along with fields to capture images of each component directly from any mobile device. Plus, it is easily customizable to suit your needs and meet ASME code requirements for boiler room safety devices.

Looking to maximize your HVAC company’s productivity? Then consider GoCanvas’s more comprehensive estimate-to-invoice solution that includes dispatching, integration with QuickBooks, dashboard reports, and more. Check out the new HVAC Toolkit.

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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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TE3CO provides mission-critical pressure relief technology and services to customers across the oil and gas industry. They employ a highly trained and capable workforce of field technicians and engineers. Before working with GoCanvas, TE3CO relied on spreadsheets and emails to manage their ticketing process but found the system time-consuming and difficult to track.

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5 Tips to Improve How Your Business Collects Data

Companies rely on collecting data in order to operate. In a fast-changing world, companies that focus on streamlining and improving their data collection processes will be able to do more. The good news is that it’s become easier than ever for businesses of all sizes to convert their workflows to digital processes, streamline tasks through automation, and take advantage of real-time analytics.

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How Digital Work Orders Impact Your Key Business Outcomes

man putting in a field work order from tablet
Posted on by Caroline Brezovec

How Digital Work Orders Impact Your Key Business Outcomes

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Is your company still using paper sheets to manage work orders? The drawbacks of using paper forms are often hidden, making it difficult to understand the true impact of paper forms on a business. Typically, as your business grows, the paper problem becomes more difficult to manage. Here are some of the top concerns:

  • Rising direct costs of paper usage
  • Manual workflows and time-consuming data entry
  • Missing or inaccurate data that leads to rework
  • Lack of insights into operations
  • Hard to scale your business efficiently

By switching to digital work orders, your business can alleviate these data challenges. This article covers how digital work orders enable better data insights and ultimately how they can save your business time and money.

Top 3 Ways Digital Work Orders Can Impact Your Business

There are many reasons to switch from traditional paper forms over to digital work orders and software to help manage your business operations in the field. Let’s look at the top three ways going digital will help your growing business to scale more efficiently. 

1. Streamline processes for the field and the office

Companies with large field teams often rely on paper forms, but eventually find this process to be difficult to manage. Take for example Centurion Transport based in Australia, who found that their work orders could sometimes take a week or more to return from the field and process in the office. As a transportation and logistics company, the paperwork was difficult to manage, reporting errors were common, and long turnaround times for paperwork made it difficult to scale. After implementing digital work orders and other forms, Centurion realized a total cost savings of $100k annually by focusing on software to help them streamline and automate their business processes.

Digital work order management software is designed to connect the field and the office. Tools can be used to dispatch workers in the field and share information seamlessly back to the office. Since mobile forms are used to collect and share information from the work order, everything is managed centrally in the cloud. Improving workflows and eliminating paper can have a profound impact on the business. Taking it one step further, companies can also start to leverage automation to integrate work orders into their payroll and invoicing systems. Since work orders are managed using cloud-based tools, they can easily connect to the other cloud-based tools your business uses to manage its operations. 

2. Standardize how data is collected

Data is a valuable asset, but it’s easy for businesses to miss out on the opportunity to use data in meaningful ways. Paper forms are not ideal for data collection because they are hard to control what data is submitted from the field. If data on paper forms is missing or illegible, it can require rework to fix the problem or there is key information that’s unknown.

Digital work orders bring consistency and standardization for data collection in the field and for the office. Teams generating work orders from the office have standardized digital templates to be used for specific work order requests. Teams performing the work and documenting the work orders in the field will have mobile forms that can require certain information and types of data to be submitted. For example, they may have the ability to choose from a pre-set drop down list of options or they may be required to format data as a number rather than text. All of this leads to better data collection practices that can make the work order data useful when it needs to be reported on. 

The key outcome is better reporting and analytics for your business in real-time. Consistent data is better for reporting purposes and standard KPIs ensures you are collecting the right information from the field. In the case of work orders, this may help you to understand common challenges and problems that are happening with your teams, so you can take the appropriate response to help overcome these obstacles. Are there delays happening and where? What is causing down time? Where do we need additional resources in the field? All of these types of analysis become much easier when you have consistent and standard data available at your fingertips for reporting.

3. Create a better customer experience

With more competition and options for customers to choose from, it’s become more important than ever to provide a best in class customer experience, no matter how big or small your company may be. 

Customers expect the service experience to be effortless for them. So if your field service teams are interacting directly with the customer to complete work orders, it’s important to have a digital experience that streamlines the process for everyone involved. This could mean providing digital signatures for the customer to sign off, a digitized report with detailed explanation of work performed, and clear documentation on any next steps or scheduled work orders in the future.

Providing transparent documentation and an effortless experience for customers by leveraging simple digital technology for work orders can help to bring more satisfied customers and more revenue to your business. 

Ready to see a work order management system in action? Reach out to the team at GoCanvas to learn more about our mobile platform for managing work orders and digitizing your core business processes. 

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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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Your Guide to Waiver Forms – Examples and Templates

man signing waiver form on tablet device
Posted on by Caroline Brezovec

Your Guide to Waiver Forms – Examples and Templates

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What is a waiver form?

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 to document that all parties are aware of potential risks in certain situations. Waiver forms act as a release of liability for the company and typically the customer or participant will need to sign the form in order to move forward. 

What is the purpose of a waiver form?

The basic purpose of a waiver form is to shield a business from liability and risk. While no one is ever required to sign off a waiver form, businesses may refuse service if all parties do not sign off on the waiver form. By willingly entering into an agreement, the waiver form acts as a record that all parties have been informed of potential risks and agree not to hold the business legally responsible in case of an incident or accident. 

Can I use Google Forms for waivers?

Since waivers are basic documents by nature, it’s entirely possible to use a word processor such as Google Forms or Microsoft Word to produce waiver forms. 

However one key downside of using Google Forms or Word documents is that you aren’t able to natively collect signatures using these tools. You would need to print out the form or use a third party app to collect a digital signature. 

Since waiver forms rely on signature capture, more companies are looking to specific waiver apps that can be filled out directly on a tablet or mobile device in the field. For example, software for waiver apps can have all of your waiver form templates available and customers can read and sign off on the forms digitally. 

The rise of app technology has made it easier than ever to complete all types of waiver forms, collecting digital signatures and storing documents directly to the cloud – even without an internet connection. 

Using word processors for waivers may work in some instances, but as your business grows in complexity it can benefit your organization to have productivity tools in place to streamline how you capture information in the field. 

How do you write a waiver form?

Luckily there are many examples and templates out there that can be used when writing a waiver form. Many businesses prefer to copy from a template, rather than starting completely from scratch. In general though, a waiver form typically includes information like:

  • Branding: Your company name, address, contact information, and logo that represents your business’s brand in the header or footer of the document
  • Customer Information: Name, address, email, phone number, date of birth, parent or guardian name (if applicable), etc.
  • Waiver terms: Includes all of the legal language, clauses, definitions, and terms of the agreement in its entirety
  • Signatures: Form field to capture the signature of all parties and sign off from a parent or guardian in the case of a minor

Since waiver forms may be used in a legal setting, it’s always advisable to consult a lawyer to help when writing your waiver forms. Here is an example of a waiver form that can be built on GoCanvas and published as a PDF form to be filled out via a mobile device, tablet, or computer by your customers.

Who needs a waiver form?

Waiver forms are used across many different industries and use cases. Some common examples include:

As you can see, there are many variations of waiver forms out there designed for specific businesses that work with customers and have the potential for risk. You can search the GoCanvas app store to find all of our specific waiver and release forms.

Using GoCanvas for Waiver Forms

Using GoCanvas can help your business avoid potential legal fees from litigation and related costs. Going digital with forms provides a way to modernize your operations and streamline data collection. Key benefits of digital waivers on GoCanvas include:

  • Customization – The GoCanvas product lets you easily customize disclosure language and layout in seconds, ensuring the waiver applies to each activity or business process.
  • Standardized data – Digital forms allow you to create required data fields for completion including name and signature, helping to avoid incomplete or inaccurate forms.
  • Accessible information – GoCanvas allows you to create a central, cloud database of customer waivers to review/download/print from anywhere.
  • Digital signatures:  GoCanvas allows you to capture signatures digitally and then email a digital PDF copy to the customer for their records
  • Secure, cloud-based documentation: With GoCanvas, you never have to worry about losing or misplacing a customer waiver again. All documents are securely stored to the cloud, giving you peace of mind in case of a dispute.
  • Integrated data – GoCanvas enables you to integrate and share waiver forms into customer relationship management systems or any of the other cloud-based tools your business already uses.

Using GoCanvas, customers have found they are able to decrease their risk and liability by 18%. Switching to digital waiver solutions has helped companies be more prepared with digital documentation in the case of an accident, incident, or other unforeseen event that occurs. Start your free trial with GoCanvas to see how going digital can help to streamline your operations and lower your company’s risk with better documentation.

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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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Top 3 Benefits of Construction Inspection Software

Posted on by lynne salie

Top 3 Benefits of Construction Inspection Software

| |

In a world where construction demands are rapidly evolving, efficiency and precision have become the cornerstone of successful projects. Today’s construction industry—spanning various sectors like landscaping, roofing, and HVAC—faces an array of complex challenges. Addressing these challenges head-on is the rise of construction inspection software, a revolutionary digital innovation reshaping the industry. This software is more than just a toolkit’s a game-changer, enhancing jobsite management and revolutionizing the entire construction process itself. Learn how construction software streamlines your workflow, cuts down on risks, and speeds up the payment process. It’s a practical tool for boosting efficiency and setting new standards in the construction industry.

Pa(in)perwork

❌ Slow

❌ Frustrating

❌ Costly

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Make the Switch

How Digital Construction Forms Help Teams Save Time

Imagine stepping onto a construction site where digital efficiency reigns supreme. This is the reality for construction company owners, contractors, and site managers in sectors like landscaping, roofing, and HVAC, thanks to the advent of construction inspection software. Paper forms and the hassle of manual data entry are now things of the past on construction sites. Digital construction forms have brought about a significant change in managing site operations, providing a streamlined and efficient solution that saves time.

For those steering construction projects, this shift means inspections, work orders, and reports are now a few quick taps away on a mobile device. Especially in industries where time means money, this technology doesn’t just trim hours off your workday; it injects efficiency into every task, enabling your teams to accomplish more in less time and with fewer errors.

Take, for instance, a roofing contractor juggling multiple sites. The traditional paper trail is replaced by digital forms, accessible right from their phone or tablet. Inspections are completed on the spot, with data uploaded instantly, slashing the time spent on administrative tasks. For HVAC and landscaping professionals, this real-time data entry means quicker turnaround on projects, faster decision-making, and ultimately, a more streamlined path to project completion and payment. In essence, construction inspection software isn’t just a tool; it’s a strategic asset in driving your business forward in a fiercely competitive industry.

How Real-Time Reporting and Oversight Mitigate Risk

Construction inspection software excels in its ability to mitigate risks, a crucial aspect for projects in roofing, HVAC, or landscaping. Real-time reporting and oversight mean potential issues like safety hazards or budget overruns are quickly identified and promptly addressed. Instant documentation and reporting enable immediate action, enhancing safety and preventing costly delays and disputes.

For instance, a landscaping company managing a vast project can leverage this software for continuous safety monitoring. When an incident occurs, real-time reports facilitate swift responses, ensuring worker safety and regulatory compliance. The software’s data analytics feature also allows for identifying trends, leading to proactive risk management strategies.

This method of managing risks is crucial, reshaping the way construction professionals handle their projects, keep sites safe, and stay within budget. Construction inspection software is key in this transformation, allowing for swift reactions and smarter decisions to guide projects towards successful, on-time, and secure completions.

How Integrated Software Solutions Accelerate Quotes and Payments

Efficiently handling quotes and payments is vital for maintaining cash flow and ensuring project continuity. Construction inspection software transcends its primary function of inspections by seamlessly integrating with other construction management tools. This integration significantly speeds up both the quoting and payment processes, enabling contractors to initiate projects quicker and streamline revenue generation.

For example, an HVAC contractor working on several projects can benefit immensely from this integrated approach. The software allows for quick access to historical data and automates the estimation process, enabling the contractor to rapidly generate accurate and professional quotes. This efficiency not only impresses clients with prompt service but also shortens the time to project kickoff. The added advantage of this integration is its impact on invoicing and payment tracking. By simplifying these processes, contractors can secure payments faster, fostering a healthy cash flow for their businesses.

Selecting Construction Inspection Software for Your Project

Making the right choice in construction inspection software is key to unlocking the software’s full range of benefits. When it’s time to select a software solution for your project, several critical factors come into play—whether you’re in roofing, HVAC, or landscaping.

  • Scalability: The software should grow with your business. Consider whether the software can handle the increasing complexity and size of your projects as your company expands. Scalability ensures that the software remains useful and efficient as your business evolves.
  • Compatibility with existing systems: Integration with your current tools and systems is crucial. The software should seamlessly blend into your existing workflow, minimizing disruption and learning curves. Check if it can work with your accounting software, CRM, or any other tools you regularly use.
  • Specific features for your project needs: Different projects have unique requirements. Look for software that offers features tailored to your specific project needs. This might include advanced reporting capabilities, customization options, or particular functionalities that address the unique challenges of your sector.
  • User-friendliness: The software should be easy to use for everyone on your team. A user-friendly interface reduces training time and ensures that your team can take full advantage of all the software’s features.
  • Support and training: Consider the level of customer support and training provided. Good support can significantly ease the implementation process and facilitate future troubleshooting.
  • Data security and compliance: Ensure that the software complies with industry standards for data security and privacy. This is crucial for protecting sensitive project and client information.
  • Cost-effectiveness: Finally, evaluate the cost relative to the features and benefits offered. The most expensive option isn’t always the best. Look for software that provides the best value for your investment.

Maximizing Efficiency and Profitability With GoCanvas Construction Inspection Software

With GoCanvas, construction management is becoming more straightforward and efficient. These tools are all about cutting through the complexity, helping you get things done quicker and with fewer headaches. It’s a new era of efficiency, risk management, and accelerated workflows.

For professionals in landscaping, roofing, HVAC, and beyond, this technology is not just an upgrade; it’s a fundamental shift towards better project management. By saving time, reducing risks, and speeding up payments, it’s a strategic asset for anyone looking to enhance profitability and efficiency in the competitive construction landscape.

Eager to explore the benefits of construction inspection software? Connect with a GoCanvas Construction Product Expert who can guide you through the selection and implementation process.

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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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Your App. Your Brand.

Control all facets of your work with your own, recognizable mobile app.

Your customers and employees trust your name and brand. With GoCanvas®, you can customize our mobile application technology to seamlessly integrate into your world. You’re in control of your app’s name, colors, logo, and more.

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Your own listing in the Google Play and Apple App Stores.

Your recognizable app tile for all your users to click.

We do the heavy lifting, and you decide when your app updates.

Your logo and colors throughout.

All the same, easy-to-use functionality that GoCanvas offers.

Existing forms and integrations work automatically, without disruption.

Your vision, our product.

Gain a competitive edge and boost your revenue by partnering with GoCanvas. Discover why resellers are choosing to collaborate with us.

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Streamlining Fire Inspection Checklists: 4 Ways to Boost Efficiency

Posted on by Nikki Kanev

Streamlining Fire Inspection Checklists:
4 Ways to Boost Efficiency

| | |

Fire safety has evolved; it’s not just about putting out fires anymore, but also preventing them in the first place. This is where mobile technology is transforming cumbersome fire inspection checklists into efficient, user-friendly tools. Smartphones and tablets are redefining how fire safety professionals conduct inspections by making them faster and more accurate while doing away with the old hassles of paperwork and manual entry errors. These mobile tools are pivotal in enhancing precision, ensuring compliance, and streamlining workflows in fire safety.

Let’s dive into four key ways these mobile checklists are reshaping fire safety inspections and setting new standards in the industry.

1. Ensure Consistency With Standardized Digital Fire Inspection Checklists

Consistency in fire inspections is vital for maintaining safety standards and ensuring compliance. Digital fire inspection checklists bring this much-needed consistency by standardizing the inspection process. With mobile technology, every inspector has access to the same checklist format, ensuring that no elements are overlooked. In an industry where even a minor oversight can have significant consequences, this standardization is critical.

Beyond standardization, these digital checklists offer a level of customization that’s invaluable. They can be tailored to meet specific regulatory requirements or the unique needs of different organizations. This flexibility ensures that fire safety professionals are always equipped with the most up-to-date tools aligned with current safety standards and practices.

In addition, digital checklists serve as an effective tool for training new inspectors. They provide clear and consistent guidelines accessible on mobile devices, making it easier for newcomers to learn and adhere to established inspection protocols. This not only speeds up the onboarding process but also helps maintain the uniformity and thoroughness of fire safety inspections.

2. Accelerate On-Site Checks With Process Automation

Mobile technology introduces process automation into fire inspections, significantly accelerating on-site checks. This integration of automation streamlines the inspection process, boosting both efficiency and accuracy in tangible ways.

  • Streamlined Data Entry and Reporting
    Automation in mobile technology simplifies data entry and report generation. Inspectors can input data directly into their devices, and the app intelligently populates relevant report sections. This not only speeds up the inspection process but also reduces errors that can occur with manual data handling.
  • Efficient Information Gathering With Barcode Scanning
    Barcode scanning is a standout feature of process automation. Inspectors can swiftly scan equipment labels to retrieve and record essential information. This eliminates the need for manual data entry, saving valuable time and reducing potential input errors.
  • Optimized Routing With GPS Tracking
    GPS tracking is another critical element of process automation. It aids inspectors in planning efficient routes to inspection sites, ensuring time-effective travel. This functionality is particularly useful for managing multiple inspections in different locations, thereby optimizing overall workflow.
  • Enhanced Reporting With Integrated Photo Capture
    The ability to capture and upload photos directly within the inspection app adds a significant layer of detail to reports. Inspectors can provide visual evidence of their findings, making reports more comprehensive. Additionally, the feature to annotate photos within the app allows for highlighting specific concerns or compliance areas, further enhancing the accuracy and usefulness of the reports.

3. Real-Time Dispatch of Fire Crews for Rapid Response

In emergency scenarios, every second counts. Mobile technology is pivotal in elevating the response speed of fire crews with its real-time dispatch capabilities. Dispatchers are now able to immediately send alerts and assignments to fire crews, along with comprehensive details about the incident’s location and nature.

The real-time dispatch system greatly empowers fire departments in resource management. With a live overview of crew availability and their precise locations, dispatchers can deploy resources more strategically and react to emergencies faster. This efficiency in response can be crucial in minimizing the damage and risks associated with fire incidents.

Additionally, mobile dispatch systems are often equipped with live maps and real-time traffic data. This feature is invaluable for fire crews, aiding them in navigating quickly to the incident site. By avoiding traffic jams and identifying the quickest routes, they can significantly cut down their response times.

4. Clarity and Accessibility With a Cloud-Based Fire Safety Management System

A cloud-based fire safety management system brings unmatched clarity and ease of access. It securely stores all inspection data in the cloud, making information available anytime, anywhere. This is a game-changer for fire safety managers who need to constantly review inspection data, schedule maintenance, or prepare for audits.

Storing data in the cloud means it’s safe from the physical risks associated with paper records—like damage, loss, or theft. Cloud systems don’t just secure data; they also provide robust backup and recovery options. This ensures that vital safety information is always accessible, even in emergencies.

Furthermore, a cloud-based system enhances teamwork and communication within fire safety teams. It allows for the instant sharing of inspection reports and other essential documents with team members, no matter where they are. This ensures that everyone is informed and can make decisions based on the most current data, fostering a cohesive and responsive fire safety team.

Transform Your Fire Safety Inspections With GoCanvas

By harnessing the power of digital checklists, real-time dispatch, and cloud systems, GoCanvas is leading a shift toward more consistent, accurate, and efficient fire safety management. These tools do more than just streamline processes—they empower teams to achieve unprecedented levels of clarity and responsiveness in their operations.


If you’re ready to elevate your fire inspection procedures, talk to one of our product experts at GoCanvas today. Discover how GoCanvas can tailor these technological advancements to your specific needs and take the first step toward smarter, more efficient fire safety 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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