When you think of a digital punch list, what comes to mind? In its simplest form, a digital punchlist is a checklist done by a contractor where all pertinent additional information can be added as the needs of the check change. A punch list can be modified, shared, and examined in real time for errors and edits.
A punch list (sometimes called a snag list, deficiency list, or punch out list) is typically completed at the end of a construction or project process and before the final inspection, to ensure any information about unfinished or erroneous issues has been reported in order to be completed, checked, or redone.
Typically, punch lists are limited to minor issues or edits that can be completed quickly, but that by no means indicates the scale of the importance of having them done correctly. Punch lists are vital to safety, equipment maintenance and regulatory compliance.
Let’s go over the absolute must-haves on a digital punch list necessary to make any inspection process easy, simple and quick.
Works on mobile
Simplicity and speed is the name of the game when it comes to digital punch lists. Having it available at the touch of a button is not only faster in terms of sharing information, the paperless transition is environmentally friendly and removes the possibility of major mistakes. Simplifying operations by smoothing out the process eliminates errors such as missing paperwork, smudged or unreadable writing, and missing or forgotten pieces of the list.
A seamless transition to a device most workers are already most likely comfortable using is a step towards cutting out hundreds of hours of redundant tasks. Devices like mobiles and tablets can be brought to the remotest areas and used quickly and efficiently. Digitized use allows the company to plan and source future digital transformation based on the data gathered on your assets.
Ability to flag tasks by priority
During a project, everyone in the team must have the same information and know what the project completion hierarchy should be. Without priority classification, a team will have trouble maneuvering and completing projects. Prioritizing tasks and checkpoints in inspections is vital to good operations. A digitized checklist allows for the creator to arrange each point in such a way that priority comes first without having to spend time on explaining why and there is no risk of human error.
While doing maintenance and other checks, arranging tasks in order of urgency allows for proper maintenance and prevents dangerous situations. Digital checklists allow you to direct an inspector towards a failing machine or equipment in urgent need of checking. This prevents potential hazards and fines, saving the company not just time but money. Being able to easily group, classify and filter tasks and projects is an absolute must-have for completion of a review or inspection.
Interactive maps
An interactive map feature is one asset that takes confusion right out of the product; with multiple locations and multiple reports, it’s incredibly easy for workers to lose track and get confused. To avoid these simple mistakes, an interactive map feature is vital.
A map shows forms based on location, allowing for geolocating forms in a precise manner. A map also helps prevent failures and issues based on history, weather and many other important factors. For example, anything from traffic issues to raw material needs to weather affecting metals and machines must be taken under consideration in inspections; undeniably, betterments are safer and cheaper than complete repairs that can take machinery out of service for long periods of time or cause serious safety risks.
A great example of this is pipelines, both in cities and in remote areas. The continued temperature and humidity fluctuations erode different parts of the material in different locations and at different times, requiring constant maintenance and vigilance to ensure the pipe doesn’t leak, burst or clog up. To a degree, these rules apply to all assets and equipment.
Being able to see and interact with all the work sites and location projects makes the inspection process simpler; even something as minimal as being able to plan a route or a trip to an inspection site can make a huge difference for your staff.
Automation
One of the most valuable features in a digital inspection is the ability for automation to clarify and minimize the strain on tasks. A digitized punch list removes tons of steps and a majority of the friction that traditional paper filing still has.
Accelerating data collection, filing information, updating lists and laws around inspection needs and asset information makes for a fast inspection that averts fines and delays that can potentially end up halting a project or costing more in major repairs.
Being able to edit, pivot and immediately follow up on potential issues or needs is the greatest reason for automation. If your organization needs data retention, there’s no reason to have to look through every single individual checklist for errors or notes; automation cuts down on time, on people necessary to complete a project, and safety issues.
Permissions and user settings
Not every project’s data is safe to be handled by everyone on your team. Being able to shift and select permissions and user settings prevents data leaks and keeps information contained within the level of staff you need it to. With paper filing, information can easily be accessed, shared and copied, but having a selected way to alter permissions keeps information safe.
Being able to control who has access to what saves time, as employees don’t need to worry and sift through unnecessary and useless files; this allows for control and productive use of time. To keep a construction project moving towards deadlines and contractual obligations, allowing select users to have access to specific functionalities actually smoothes out the process and streamlines the inspection process.
If you’re interested in how Field Eagle can help revolutionize and accelerate your inspections, then fill out the form below for a free 15-day Trial.
