Voice notes to quotes: the fastest way for trades to get quotes out from your phone
Tradespeople can efficiently generate quotes using voice dictation on their phones, streamlining the quoting process and improving response times to clients.
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Tools, Materials & Tech
Technology and equipment for modern trades.
Tool sign out system: QR and NFC setup for tracking tools without expensive software
The article outlines a cost-effective QR and NFC tool sign-out system for small contractors to track equipment, enhancing accountability and reducing tool theft.
Construction site internet: 4G/5G router, external antenna and static IP setup that actually works
The article provides a comprehensive guide on setting up reliable 4G/5G internet for construction sites, detailing equipment, installation, and troubleshooting for optimal connectivity.
Set up WhatsApp warranty activation reminders that turn into annual service work
The article outlines how gas engineers can automate WhatsApp reminders for boiler warranty registration and annual service bookings using ServiceM8 or Tradify.
Offline card payments on site with no signal: Square vs SumUp vs Zettle, limits and risks
Square and SumUp allow offline card payments with associated risks, while Zettle requires an active connection, making it unsuitable for areas with no signal.
Copy text from photos on site: iPhone Live Text or Google Lens for serial plates, manuals and certificates
Modern smartphones enable users to extract text from images using iPhone's Live Text or Android's Google Lens, streamlining documentation for various industries.
How to take a card pre-authorisation on site with Square (and when to use deposits instead)
The article explains how to use Square for card pre-authorisation, detailing when to opt for pre-authorisation versus deposits, and providing setup instructions and best practices.
Dual SIM work and personal on one phone: UK coverage tips, eSIM setup and crew policies that work
The article provides guidance on using Dual SIM phones for work and personal lines in the UK, covering setup, network recommendations, and crew policies.
Set up AI call summaries for trades: Teams, Zoom Phone and quick notes that actually bill
AI call summaries can enhance productivity for businesses using Microsoft Teams or Zoom Phone by automatically recording key points and actions from calls for efficient invoicing and task management.
AI cameras for PPE checks on site: hard hats and hi vis without the hype
AI cameras can effectively monitor hard hat compliance on construction sites, while hi vis detection requires custom models and careful implementation for optimal results.
Record business calls legally: simple setup on 3CX, RingCentral and Vonage
The article provides guidance for small trade teams on compliant call recording practices, including setup instructions for VoIP systems and legal considerations under GDPR and Ofcom regulations.
iPhone Shortcuts for trades: 3 fast automations you can set up today
The article outlines three iPhone Shortcuts automations for tradespeople, enabling efficient job tracking, photo management, and ETA messaging without coding.
Card machine says no signal? How to take payments offline on site
The article outlines methods for processing offline card payments using various systems like Square, SumUp, and Zettle, highlighting their limitations and best practices.
Set up weather-based WhatsApp alerts for roofing jobs: wind and rain thresholds, rescheduling and client updates
Implementing weather-based WhatsApp alerts for roofing jobs can significantly reduce aborted visits and improve scheduling efficiency by automating client updates and crew notifications.
Digital M and E commissioning: simple checklists, forms and handover packs that pass first time
The article outlines effective digital commissioning practices in the UK for 2025, emphasising structured workflows, automation, and compliance with relevant regulations for successful project completion.
Measure a room with your phone: Polycam vs Pix4Dcatch for quick site surveys
The article compares Polycam and Pix4Dcatch for measuring rooms using iPhone LiDAR, highlighting their strengths, limitations, and appropriate use cases for accuracy.
Build an AI site diary from photos and voice notes: compliant records without the paperwork
An AI site diary utilises photos and voice notes to create compliant, structured daily records for construction projects, enhancing efficiency and accuracy in documentation.
Automate supplier quotes and POs with Xero: compare prices, approve fast and avoid overpaying
Xero automates supplier quotes and purchase orders, streamlining procurement processes, enhancing efficiency, and ensuring accurate job costing for UK trades.
Electrical certificate software for UK electricians: best options, setup, and a no‑double‑entry workflow
This article reviews various electrical certificate software options for UK electricians, highlighting features, setup tips, and strategies to avoid double data entry.
How to use a thermal camera on site: find leaks, damp and hot connections
This guide provides practical steps for UK electricians, plumbers, and contractors to effectively use thermal cameras for diagnostics, leak detection, and documentation.
Underfloor heating not working: step-by-step fixes for wet systems, common faults and when to call it
The article provides a comprehensive troubleshooting guide for underfloor heating systems, detailing common faults, step-by-step fixes, and advice on when to seek professional help.
Best asset tags and QR labels for tools and plant: what lasts on UK sites
The article discusses the best asset tags and QR labels for tools and equipment on UK sites, highlighting materials, legal requirements, and effective tagging systems.
Digital handover pack with QR codes: set up O&M manuals and asset tags your client will actually use
Durable QR labels can streamline asset tracking and operational management by providing instant access to essential information, aligning with UK building safety regulations.
Construction photo report from your phone: simple workflow, templates and tools
A streamlined process allows contractors to create professional construction photo reports in under ten minutes using their smartphones, cloud storage, and simple templates.
Generate a materials list from plans or photos with AI: fast takeoffs for small contractors
AI tools enable small UK contractors to quickly generate accurate materials lists from photos or plans, streamlining the estimating process and improving efficiency.
Roof inspection report from photos: a simple workflow that tags defects and builds a PDF
A streamlined workflow enables roofers to efficiently generate photo-led inspection reports, reducing preparation time from 45 to 10 minutes using AI automation.
AirTag vs GPS tracker for vans and tools: what to use and how to set it up
The article compares Apple AirTags and Samsung SmartTags with dedicated GPS trackers for tracking vans and tools, highlighting their functionalities, setup, legal considerations, and insurance requirements.
Geofencing timesheets on construction sites: auto clock in, stop buddy punching and stay compliant
Geofencing timesheets automate clocking in and out for field service teams, improving accuracy and reducing administrative tasks while ensuring compliance with UK data protection laws.
Starlink for building sites: setup, power from a van, best plans and CCTV tips
The article provides guidance for site managers and contractors on using Starlink for reliable internet connectivity, including setup, power options, and CCTV integration.
Best rugged phones for builders and trades in 2025: what to buy and what to avoid
In 2025, builders and tradespeople should consider rugged phones like the Samsung Galaxy XCover 7 and HMD XR21 for durability, support, and functionality.