Locksmithing has come a long way from the first pin tumblers, carved in wood by Egyptians some 4,000 years ago. While locksmiths still replace keys and change locks, they increasingly service electronic locks and install high-end security systems, too. If locksmiths have entered the digital age, then why do some still use pen and paper to schedule and bill for work?
Instead of replacing every employee’s calendars and appointment books this New Year’s Day, consider investing in smart locksmith management software instead. Not only will it pay for itself every 12 months, the best systems also help streamline operations and improve customer service. Good for your employees, good for your business—what’s not to like?
What’s the right locksmith management software for you?
One of the first questions to ask of any potential locksmith management software? How much time and effort will it take to set up. The best systems easily sync with the software you already use for billing and accounting, such as QuickBooks. By batch importing your existing client database, you’ll save hours of data entry right off the bat.
Another benefit to such systems is that every time you add a new customer, you’ll eliminate the need to create separate files for billing and dispatch. A good system will allow you to generate work orders and store notes, all accessible through a single, convenient portal. With constant access to current customer information and histories, employees can work more efficiently. This will keep customers happy, driving referrals and additional business.
Even if you have the technical skills to crack into the world’s toughest safes, you might dread the thought of having to install and configure your management software on all your computers and mobile devices. Make sure the company you select provides excellent technical support and training. Savvy support operators can remotely connect to your computers and get everything installed with minimum hassle.
The best companies go even further, not only providing tech support, but also offering remote training sessions for groups or individuals. All of this will save you time, money, and stress, freeing you to focus on what you do best.
The Right Tools For The Job
Once you’ve determined which locksmith management software is easily compatible with your existing systems, you’ll want to make sure it has the right features to meet all your current and future needs. The best programs go far beyond scheduling and billing. They include tools for estimating job cost, real time tracking of deployed assets, and automatic reminders for vehicle maintenance.
Artificial intelligence (AI) isn’t just for time-traveling robots that look like Arnold Schwarzenegger. The most advanced locksmith management systems use AI in a number of ways to give users a 21st century competitive edge over those still scratching paper with lead sticks. They can calculate and track commissions, analyze the effectiveness of marketing campaigns, and solicit customers for feedback. Using powerful analytics tools, systems can even optimize service routes, so your workers won’t have to waste time sitting in traffic or asking for directions.
Since most of a locksmith’s work happens in the field, they need tools that can travel with them. Make sure the locksmith management software you select works with mobile devices. The best systems allow you to schedule jobs from headquarters and then automatically dispatch them to an employee’s mobile phone via an app. You can receive live updates from employees as well.
If one job runs long, you’ll have more notice to send another employee to the next assignment while keeping all your customers happy. When a job gets completed, you can collect legally valid electronic signatures from customers, instantly adding a record of the work to your database. If properly utilized, the right management software can do the work of full-time employee at a fraction of the cost.
The real question isn’t if can you afford to upgrade to locksmith management software, but if you can afford not to.
Don’t forget the human element.
While all this talk of tech might have you seeing ones and zeros, never forget that people still remain a business’ most valuable asset. Make sure you select a company with a solid track record going back years (if not decades). You don’t want to spend all your time and money on a new system just to find the company maintaining it going out of business the following week.
Reputable companies should have good online reviews and be willing to put you in touch with existing customers who will vouch for them. Retailers lost $32 million to e-commerce fraud in 2014. Make sure to practice due diligence to avoid becoming another statistic.
An Investment In The Future
Technology continues to make science fiction into daily reality. For only a few hundred dollars, consumers can buy locks that let delivery drivers leave merchandise safely indoors even when no one is home or that can open with the twist of your phone.
No matter how advanced locks and keys get, they won’t do you any good if the horse has already bolted. Don’t get left behind by changing times. Upgrade from crumpled pieces of paper and pushpin boards to the latest in locksmith management software—before your competition does.
