How an iPad or PC Tablet can Boost Productivity on the Jobsite
Published:
by Brian Enright, CPA and Tim Ayler, CPA | Team Members of the Construction Services Group
By most accounts an iPad (or any PC tablet) is considered an entertainment device or simply a convenient, portable way to check email on a business trip. However, with new construction-based applications and tough protection cases, the iPad is showing that it too belongs on the jobsite.
By utilizing the Lellyett & Rodgers PDM document storage system, companies are able to view construction documents in the field clearly and easily, eliminating the need to return to the office and potentially saving on the need to reproduce a set of specifications and drawings. The Lellyett & Rodgers storage system serves as a repository for the most current change orders, requests for information, and other project documents and drawings, which are uploaded to a computer at the office. The software provides tools for easy organization, easy access, and converts the documents to an easy-to-view format on the iPad or any PC tablet. The software also notifies everyone on the project when a document has been updated and provides a direct link to the updated documents. With the simple addition of WiFi to a jobsite, project personnel in the field have instant access to the updated documents and drawings.
The Lellyett & Rodgers PDM document storage software starts at $300 for an annual subscription and increases with the number of users. iPads start around $499 (PC tablets may be less expensive) and a quality, tough protection case can be found for around $89. Depending on your personnel and travel costs related to field-to-office visits per job, the iPad and storage software can be a cost-effective solution that doesnt require a ton of infrastructure to use in the field.
Source: Wood, Deborah (2011, March/April). New Apple-cations. Jobsite iPad Boosts Productivity. Constructor