Mobile service
Service technicians can now use mobile technology with features that allow them to operate more efficiently. This technology is easy to use in the field as service technicians can easily view scheduled jobs along with customer information, including equipment profile, job notes, directions, and any pictures on record.
Having this information on hand can save service professionals a lot of time as they have immediate access to all updates completed at the office and, similarly, the shop is instantly updated when a technician completes the work. This not only eliminates paperwork (e.g. service forms, records for pool or spa water test results), but also allows technicians to take payments at the job site. They can even look up inventory and do physical inventory on service trucks, all on a phone or tablet. Depending on the software program, business owners can even track service technician hours using a time clock feature.
Mobile payment options
Perfect for touch-free business transactions, mobile payment options offer customers the convenience of paying online or from a mobile device. Pool and spa professionals are also investing in online payment systems that allow them to send invoices by email. This feature not only saves a business owner on the cost of envelopes, stamps, labels, paper, and ink, but also on labour costs as it reduces the amount of time it takes to invoice clients and collect payment on products and services.
Integrations
Incorporating pool industry software that integrates systems within one’s business as well as with vendors and partners is critical to running the business more efficiently. Be sure to look for software that has the following industry-specific integrations:
Water testing station integration
These integrations connect business software with industry water testing software for fast purchasing recommendations in-person or from one’s online store. Additionally, by removing the need to do redundant typing, employees can now spend time speaking with customers and exploring potential up-sell opportunities while their water is being tested.
For business owners looking to take advantage of these benefits it is important to look for software that is compatible with some of the leading industry water analysis systems on the market.
That said, many pool and spa retailers say the time their service professionals save by not having to complete double data entry helps them sell more chemicals at higher prices because they have additional time to educate customers on how their water testing results can be improved. By giving this time back to staff to spend with customers, it helps retailers distinguish themselves above competitors as valuable resources—especially from big-box stores.
Taking the time to guide customers through the options that are available to their unique water quality needs is another way one can set their retail store apart as an expert. This ultimately allows retailers to charge more for their products and services and, as a result, increase profits when selling water treatment products.
