4 Technological Approaches to the Material Shortages That Give You Back Some Control

By International Roofing Expo (IRE). 

The solution to ongoing shortages and delays could be in your hand right now. Here is how to use technology to your advantage.  

With continuing material shortages, price hikes and shipping delays with no ease in demand in sight, it can be easy to feel helpless. However, it is important to remember we have an important tool in our arsenal: technology. There are multiple ways technology helps us get ahead of the situation and regain control. Here are four ways you can leverage technology during these tough economic times. 

1 - Communication tools. Communicating with your customers about the material shortages the industry is facing will be critical to coming out on the other side unblemished. Be sure your website clearly states that projects are experiencing longer-than-normal lead times due to these material shortages.  

Set up your CRM software to keep track of the conversations you are having and send weekly updates to those customers waiting on work, even if you have no new information to report. It’s better than having them hear nothing at all. 

2 - Material tracking apps. Distributors today offer the technology contractors need to stay on top of their material orders and delivery timeframes – all at no cost to the contractor. Using your distributors app on your phone can allow you to see the status of your material orders and know exactly when you’ll be able to start a project.  

Many offer real-time tracking that shows you where your materials are on the map. In addition, these apps and services let you obtain measurements, develop estimates, view and pay invoices, submit rebates. In some cases, they help generate leads for your business by providing storm and hail information for specific neighborhoods in your service area.   

3 - Leverage the internet. Now is the time to turn to your network of roofing peers across the country. An online roofing community, like the one provided by RT3 member RoofersCoffeeShop®, is a place to talk with your fellow roofing professionals.  

Find out what others are experiencing and hear tips on how they are handling the issues. Be sure to explore the classified ad section while there, as materials and equipment are frequently listed for sale. 

The National Roofing Contractors Association has launched an online resource to provide contractors with important information regarding the supply chain shortages. Check it regularly for the latest news, announcements and updates on the situation. 

4 - Become best friends with your reps. While relationships have been key for years and don’t require technology to be developed, it can play a role in enhanced communications. Your sales reps are tied in with the manufacturers and distributors and are frequently in the know about news and happenings as it relates to issues like supply and demand. Be sure your rep has your cell phone number and check in with them regularly via a quick text or email to get a heads up on availability.   

Things will improve over time as we get the economy moving again and businesses continue to open up, but in the meantime, overcommunicate and, as RT3 member Trent Cotney of Cotney Attorneys & Consultants writes in this recent article, be sure to address the issues in your contracts with customers to protect your business. 

Learn more about IRE in their RoofersCoffeeShop® Directory or visit www.theroofingexpo.com. 

Original article source: IRE