Amity’s Toolbelt HOLDS the Latest Technology
For more than 30 years, Amity Construction & Design has been somewhat “old school.” Sure, Russ Smith and his Amity Construction & Design team have used computers, spreadsheets, word processing and CAD design to grow and streamline their business, but they recognize it’s time to take technology to the next level. That entails integrating all of the relevant data onto one platform and making it available to all critical parties and team members. Amity’s new custom software will allow not only allow office and field personnel to communicate with each other, but now clients will be able to interact “in real time” with the design and construction of their project – whether a new home, addition or renovation. Speaking of time, here’s the timeline on this latest innovation: the software is already loaded, training is underway, and full implementation will take place during the month of March. This new technological tool in Amity’s tool belt will allow the Old Lyme builder to seamlessly provide the flow of information concerning design, selections, project change orders, status updates, job progress photos and videos 24/7. Amity will now have the ability to communicate through one platform and keep all relevant parties informed and up to date throughout the construction process. It will allow everyone to get questions answered or share comments to appropriate parties instantaneously. “Over the years, I have seen the communication part of this industry become more and more critical as well as the need for information to be available as quickly as possible,” Smith said. “The expression ‘everyone wants it now’ becomes more relevant day-by-day. “This new software will allow and enhance the communication needs required today,” Smith continued. “Years ago, you used to need a pad of paper, a roll of dimes, and a local phone booth to be productive in the field. Today—with smartphones, tablets and laptops—all of the data can now be shared much more efficiently and conveniently.” While there will be a learning curve and some bumps in the road as this new process is initiated, Smith feels confident this investment will more than pay for itself in the future. “The expression ‘If you are not moving forward, you are going backwards’ is more applicable now than ever,” said Smith. “And utilization of this technology is just one more way to better serve our clients.” So what are the real-world benefits to Amity’s clients? • Building or renovating a home is one of the biggest investments a family will make – both financially and emotionally. When clients are kept informed of what is happening all the way through the process, stress is minimized, and it becomes a much more enjoyable experience. • Material choices, finishes, and change orders along the way are documented, communicated, and tracked effectively. This will help to eliminate mixups or misunderstandings and ensure that critical details do not slip through the cracks. • This system helps to control the two items that are often sore points in any construction project – timeline and cost. Here, clients are kept updated on both factors, clarifying project timeline changes if needed and making sure clients are kept up to date on their budgets for any potential change orders they may desire. Smith summed things up: “My pet phrase is “Construction is all about the 3 C’s – communication, coordination and cooperation. This new software will help to expedite and control all three.” If you would like to get a peek at the future of home building and home renovation, contact Amity Construction & Design today at 860-434-5500, visit them on the web at www.amitycd.com or in person at their showroom in the Old Lyme Marketplace. By the way, one of the most attractive qualities of this new software is that it requires little or no technical expertise on the part of clients. Anyone who owns a computer, tablet or a smartphone can easily log on and get the information they need. But don’t fret if technology is not your friend; Russ is still happy with a pad and pencil, so don’t hesitate to give Amity a call.
N.H.C. LIC: 606 H.I.C. LIC: 556813