The construction and subcontracting industry is evolving at a rapid pace, and those who integrate technology into their operations are finding themselves better equipped to tackle challenges, meet client needs, and stay competitive. From new construction to restoration and professional services, leveraging accessible, practical, and efficient technology is no longer just an added bonus—it’s becoming an essential part of success in today’s marketplace.
As someone who works closely with subcontractors and understands the nuances of the construction industry, I’ve witnessed how advancements in technology are fundamentally changing the way subcontractors work. This isn’t about “tech for tech’s sake”; it’s about solving real problems, improving accuracy, and driving better results. In this article, I’ll walk through some of the most impactful ways that technology is currently helping subcontractors improve their operations—and how it can help you too.
1. Digital Project Management: The Key to Staying Organized
Subcontractors often juggle multiple projects, each with unique demands, deadlines, crews, budgets, and client expectations. Keeping everything organized can feel overwhelming at times, especially if you’re relying on paper-based systems or scattered email chains. Enter digital project management platforms like Procore, Buildertrend, and PlanGrid, which are designed to streamline the entire subcontracting process.
These tools make your workflows more efficient by:
- Centralizing communication: No more chasing down emails or miscommunications between teams, clients, and general contractors. Everyone gets updates in real-time.
- Budget tracking: With live cost monitoring, you can keep your financials in check and spot overspending early.
- Simplifying document storage: Store and share blueprints, permits, RFIs (Requests for Information), and other vital files digitally—all accessible from your office or out in the field.
For subcontractors specializing in restoration, where timing and efficiency are crucial, these systems are especially useful. They eliminate backlogs, reduce administrative burdens, and help teams focus on what truly matters: completing quality work on time and on budget.
2. Improving Field Operations with Mobile Technology
With subcontractors spending most of their time on the move between job sites, mobile solutions have become essential. Whether you’re managing crews, adjusting bids, or reporting job progress, platforms like Fieldwire or Raken give subcontractors the ability to do it all from a smartphone or tablet.
Here’s how mobile tools can improve your workflow:
- On-the-spot updates: Submit RFIs, daily field logs, change orders, or progress reports directly from the field—no need to wait until you’re back in the office.
- Streamlined collaboration: Mobile apps allow team members, general contractors, and clients to stay on the same page, reducing delays caused by communication gaps.
- Documentation and compliance: Apps simplify everything from safety checklists to payroll, making compliance far less stressful.
Mobile technology empowers subcontractors to make decisions faster, avoid unnecessary trips to the office, and keep pace with changing project demands.
3. Optimizing the Jobsite with Smart Tools
Emerging “smart” technologies, like jobsite monitoring tools, are helping subcontractors work more efficiently and with greater accuracy. For example, sensor technology is becoming increasingly popular for tracking tools, equipment, environmental conditions, and worker safety.
Here are some practical applications:
- Tool and equipment tracking: Know where your materials and tools are at all times, helping prevent losses and inefficiencies.
- Safety monitoring: Sensors can alert teams to unsafe conditions, from air quality to temperature changes, helping subcontractors minimize risks on jobsites.
- Performance monitoring: Sensors installed on heavy equipment can deliver insights into maintenance needs or operational inefficiencies, reducing downtime.
These tools are especially valuable for restoration contractors who need to address water damage, air quality issues, or unstable debris quickly and strategically.
4. Drones: Changing the Way Subcontractors See the Jobsite
Drones might seem futuristic, but they’re already making a big impact in construction. For subcontractors tasked with site inspections, land grading, roofing projects, or restoration assessments, drones provide a safer, faster, and more accurate alternative to traditional methods.
How subcontractors are using drones:
- Faster surveying: Drones can assess large worksites or damaged buildings in minutes, saving time and labor.
- Improved safety: Risky inspections, such as scaling unstable roofs or scaffolding, can often be avoided with drone imaging.
- Precision mapping: Drone technology allows for detailed topographical maps and improved measurements for construction or restoration planning.
Drones are particularly useful for restoration teams assessing natural disaster damage. They allow you to capture detailed visuals of a site and efficiently plan out next steps—all while keeping your crew safe.
5. Sustainability: Growing Importance in Subcontracting
The demand for sustainable practices in construction is growing quickly. As clients and project owners increasingly value green building practices, subcontractors who adopt eco-friendly technology and workflows find themselves winning more jobs and fostering stronger reputations.
Technology can help subcontractors embrace sustainability in several ways:
- Material efficiency: Software platforms can track material usage to reduce overall waste on the jobsite.
- Smart equipment: By choosing more energy-efficient tools and machines, subcontractors save on fuel and energy costs while meeting green-building standards.
- Virtual design modeling: Tools like CAD (computer-aided design) software allow for more precise planning, reducing unnecessary orders and waste.
For restoration firms, using sustainable methods to clean up and rebuild damaged properties is a great way to demonstrate care for both the client and the environment.
6. Automation in Construction: Saving Time and Labor
Automation is taking on more and more roles in construction, from repetitive tasks like material handling to highly precise jobs like preconstruction assembly. While automation might sound complex, the tools available today are practical and increasingly accessible for subcontractors.
Examples include:
- Robotic tools: Machines like robotic bricklayers or automated welding systems free up crews to focus on more skilled labor.
- Prefabrication: Construction components built in controlled environments with automated systems save time and reduce error on the jobsite.
- Automated scheduling: Platforms like SmartBid help subcontractors stay on top of bid deadlines and reduce administrative burdens.
For subcontractors working in time-sensitive industries, these systems allow you to deliver faster and more consistent results while reducing overhead costs.
Final Words: Adapting to Succeed
The construction industry is highly competitive, and subcontractors who embrace technology are finding themselves better prepared to meet the needs of clients and general contractors alike. Whether it’s managing projects more efficiently, improving safety on the jobsite, or meeting sustainability goals, technology offers tools that make your business more resilient and successful.
By implementing these advances, at whatever scale makes sense for your business, you can spend less time worrying about logistics and more time delivering quality results that earn you repeat business. Ultimately, the subcontractors who adapt now will define the future of this thriving industry.
By: Darrance Tezino, Director of Technology Services
