June 1, 2023 Peggy Xenos 3 minute read

Overcoming the challenges of a mixed-service network with FSM software

Field service organizations face significant challenges when managing a dedicated workforce, especially in industries with limited resources or a shortage of skilled labor. To address these issues, an increasing number of companies are adopting a mixed-service network approach that includes full-time employees, subcontractors, freelancers, and partner organizations. However, this approach also poses its own set of challenges. In this blog, we'll explore how FSM software can help overcome these challenges and enhance a field service network.

Challenges and solutions

1. Project coordination

Coordinating multiple subcontractors, managing schedules, and ensuring seamless collaboration to deliver projects on time and within budget can be a logistical nightmare. If many stakeholders are involved, it can be difficult to ensure that everyone is on the same page and working towards the same goals. FSM software provides a centralized platform for project management, enabling task assignment, progress tracking, and real-time communication between the key parties involved such as dispatchers, technicians and end customers.

2. Workforce coordination

Ensuring that the right resources are assigned to the right tasks is no easy feat. It can be challenging to track their availability, skills, and qualifications, and ensure that they are assigned to tasks that match their capabilities. FSM software provides real-time visibility into the availability and location of internal and external resources, enabling project managers to optimize resource allocation based on scoring, skill, and geographical coverage to ensure that the right resources are assigned to the right tasks. Additionally, FSM software provides automated scheduling and routing capabilities that optimize travel routes, reduce travel time, and maximize the number of tasks completed per day or itinerary, leading to increased productivity and efficiency.

3. Safety and risk management

Managing compliance with labor laws and safety regulations can become daunting when dealing with a mix of internal and external resources. FSM software simplifies compliance by automating the tracking of certifications, licenses, and training requirements. It enables companies to maintain digital checklists, and up-to-date records, schedule safety inspections, and generate comprehensive reports, ensuring adherence to legal obligations and mitigating potential risks.

4. Technical expertise

With a limited pool of skilled workers to draw from, companies must rely on a mix of internal and external resources to deliver services. This can be challenging as it can be difficult to ensure that all technicians are properly trained and qualified to perform their tasks and handle complex systems. FSM software offers knowledge management capabilities, storing technical manuals, best practices, and automated guides tailored to customer requirements. Technicians can access this information on-site, empowering them with the expertise needed to troubleshoot issues effectively and provide high-quality service to customers.

5. Seasonal demand

Managing the scheduling and dispatching of technicians during seasonal peaks can be a complex time-consuming process that requires careful coordination between multiple stakeholders. FSM software optimizes resource allocation by automating scheduling and route planning. With real-time visibility into technician availability and location, companies can efficiently handle service requests, minimize response times, and deliver prompt solutions to customers during peak seasons.

6. Documentation and reporting

Partners within the service network may collect data using different documentation formats, methods, or systems, leading to inconsistencies and gaps in the information gathered. This can hinder the ability to generate accurate reports, impacting decision-making and auditing processes. FSM software provides standardized documentation templates, ensuring consistency across the service network. Partners can input data directly into the system where all data is stored in a centralized platform. This streamlines the data collection process, eliminates inconsistencies, and ensures accurate documentation of work performed by different parties in real time.

Conclusion

In conclusion, field service management (FSM) software is a valuable tool for companies facing challenges in coordinating a mixed-service network. By offering centralized project management, real-time visibility, automated scheduling, and streamlined reporting, FSM software helps organizations optimize their operations and deliver high-quality services to their customers. With the ability to simplify processes, FSM software is a powerful solution for companies seeking to overcome workforce challenges and enhance their service networks.