What is Field Service Management Software?

Field service management (FSM) software is designed to help businesses efficiently manage and coordinate their field service operations. The software provides tools and functionalities to streamline various tasks involved in field service management, such as scheduling, dispatching, work order management, tracking, reporting, and customer communication. 

Field service software is commonly used by businesses with service technicians providing in-home and mobile appointments, such as HVAC (heating, ventilation, and air conditioning), telecommunications, plumbers, electricians, construction, and repair services. 

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Field service features

Key features of field service management software include 

• Scheduling and dispatching — The software helps businesses assign jobs, schedule appointments, and dispatch technicians based on availability, skills, and location. It optimizes the assignment process to minimize travel time and maximize productivity among mobile workforces. 

• Work order management — FSM software allows businesses to create, track, and manage work orders digitally. Technicians can access work orders, update job status, record details, and capture customer signatures electronically. 

• GPS and location tracking — The software often integrates with GPS technology to track the location of field technicians and provide real-time visibility. It helps with route optimization, efficient dispatching, and accurate arrival time estimations. 

• Mobile access — FSM software allows field technicians to access assigned tasks, work orders, customer information, and other relevant data via smartphones or tablets. This enables real-time updates, reduces paperwork, and enhances communication. 

• Inventory management — Some field service software includes inventory management features to track and manage parts, tools, and equipment required for field service jobs. This ensures that technicians have the necessary resources to complete their jobs effectively. 

• Reporting and analytics — The software generates reports and provides analytics to help businesses gain insights into their field service operations. It allows managers to monitor performance metrics, track key performance indicators (KPIs), and identify areas for improvement. 

• Customer communications — FSM software facilitates communication between field technicians and customers. Many include features like automated notifications, appointment reminders, and customer feedback collection options to improve customer satisfaction. 

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Key benefits of field service management software

- Manage multiple projects at once

With online project management capabilities, field service software can help businesses plan multiple jobs and assign employee tasks. FSM software helps keep track of which stage of the project you are on, add details, and mark ‘completed’ to finished tasks for easy organization.

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- Schedule and plan out jobs

Create a timeline or use the calendar view to plan due dates, estimate hours, and project completion time for tasks and projects. Assign tasks and duties to employees, inform them about upcoming projects and the expected completion date, and send notifications to remind them of due dates. 

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- Keep inventory up-to-date

Use field service software to track your equipment and see what has been assigned to different jobs to ensure efficient use of resources. Set reminders to check inventory balances and re-order materials, so you’re never without the tools for the job. 

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- Process payments and send invoices

Create and send invoices or enter billing information and take payments from clients and subcontractors on the platform to avoid late payments and stay on top of business finances. 

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- Create a database for clients, suppliers, and subcontractors

Store client information, including contact details, billing details, and personal notes, and create a database for all suppliers and subcontractors used on job sites to make accessing information easier.

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Why MarketBox is the best field service management software

MarketBox is the first appointment scheduling tool specifically designed for businesses offering in-home and mobile services. The mobile-first approach makes it the perfect solution for companies looking for a field service management system, as the software takes the hard work out of scheduling people and appointments across multiple locations. 

MarketBox features include 

• Travel zones that enable businesses (or their contractors) to control when and where they offer services 
• The ability to book with specific service providers or be matched automatically 
• A dedicated provider mobile app that makes it easy to access schedules, update availability and travel zones, and manage provider profiles on the go
• A customizable booking tool that lets customers self-book appointments, choosing the time, location, and (if applicable) the service provider.
• Integrated payments and cashless tipping for a straightforward way to manage customer payments 
• A Zapier integration that lets you connect MarketBox with thousands of other apps

If you are looking for field service management software for your business, MarketBox can help. Our fully scalable solution takes the stress out of managing your business, giving you more time to focus on what’s important. Book a 1-on-1 demo today to discover how MarketBox can help you grow.