Challenges
Overcoming the field technicians’ “morning shuffle”
Too often, this process is hindered by a maze of disconnected systems, each operating in its own silo and out of sync with the latest workers’ availability and skill sets. Picture planners toggling between different crew scheduling software, frantic emails, and endless phone calls, all in a crazy rush to access the most up-to-date crew information and assign tasks promptly.
Imagine an HR system tracking shifts and labor hours, a Work Order Management system listing job assignments, and a Field Service Management (FSM) system monitoring technicians’ skill levels and job assignments in real time. Add to this mix a flurry of phone calls, emails, whiteboard scribbles, and Excel spreadsheets, and the chaos of the morning shuffle becomes palpable. Even with teams ranging from small groups to large crews, maintaining efficient working time for field service crews is a constant challenge, subject to the day’s variables, job complexities, and external factors like weather disruptions or outages.
However, the crux of the issue often isn’t a lack of technology but rather inconsistent updates from personnel as they complete their tasks. Without real-time visibility into available resources, work hours, and skill sets, even the most sophisticated systems fall short in optimizing field service performance.