I don’t know why more businesses aren’t jumping on this, but…can I tell you a secret? Integrations are wildly underutilised when it comes to field service management.
Making the most of field service management software integrations creates opportunities for those that take advantage of them—and risks for those that don’t.
In this post, we’ll explore the different types of field service management software integrations and how businesses like yours benefit from them.
What are field service management software integrations?
Field service management software integrations work in two ways. Firstly, there are the integrated components of an all-in-one system, like BigChange’s integrated CRM, scheduling, and mobile app. (These features are seamlessly woven into the fabric of the software, providing a complete and unified system.)
Then, there are external integrations that can connect to field service management software, further boosting its capabilities. This includes things like Microsoft add-ins, financial systems such as Sage and Xero, and location services like what3words. (While these integrations boost the software's functionality, they remain separate tools and may require separate subscriptions.)
So, what's the result? A more streamlined, efficient, and powerful system that covers all bases of your field service operations. From scheduling and dispatching to invoicing and customer feedback, everything works together — either as a part of the all-in-one system or through additional integrations, all accessible with a single login.
And the best part? These integrations don't just make life easier for your team; they also enhance the customer experience, leading to increased satisfaction and loyalty.
For example, if you’re a waste management company, you might be handling numerous jobs and tasks daily. Inefficiencies, such as a scheduling system not in sync with real-time tanker availability, can lead to operational challenges. By using an all-in-one field service management platform you get scheduling, real-time data, and a connected mobile app.
The key takeaway: Integrations, whether built-in to the tech or external, not only improve efficiencies and reduce manual tasks like double-keying into separate systems, but when these systems all communicate effectively, they provide valuable insights that can transform your business operations.
Types of field service management software integrations
When it comes to integrations, (good) field service management software offers several different types:
💸Finance and accounting
One of the most common job management software integrations is finance and accounts software, such as Sage or Xero. This type of integration shares financial information between systems such as completed work details, including time, travel, labour, and parts. You then choose which system to key the information into.
This means no double data entry, reduced errors, and ensures data integrity. Choosing a field service management platform with this type of integrations was really important for Cornwall Waste Care; “We looked at other systems before selecting BigChange but the combination of CRM, scheduling, and financial tools, packaged in a single, easy-to-consume solution stood head and shoulders above the competition.”
⚙️CRM & sales
Some platforms (like BigChange) have an integrated Customer Relationship Management (CRM) as standard—it’s a major value-add for our clients. But if you are already using a CRM system, you can easily import your CRM data into the new BigChange system.
Having an all-in-one tool with an integrated CRM is something which has been key for Precision FM, who say it helps them give customers what they need; “by linking the servicing portal with our sales and CRM functions will empower our teams to offer our customers the innovative solutions they need.”
🌟Specialist systems
This type of integration allows you to connect with specialist systems like Reconomy (tech-enabled waste management), MSC (rental software), Stirling Solutions (transport management software), and more.
As a case in point, integrating with specialist systems was key for WarmZilla MD, Matthew Powel; “It takes the stress out of day-to-day tasks by streamlining and automating workflows and by seamlessly integrating with our online presence and other business management systems.”
Matthew adds; “Unlike other systems, BigChange is extremely scalable, it’s designed to integrate and it’s built to be updated with new functionality and improved performance continuously.”
📩Microsoft add-ins
Microsoft is used by millions of businesses worldwide. That’s why BigChange worked in partnership with Microsoft to develop powerful add-ins—a feature that sets us apart in the field service management industry.
The main benefit of our Microsoft add-in’s is for template creation. Whether it’s documents, alerts, emails, quotes, or invoices, you can customise documents with customer-specific information from your field service management tool, streamlining the personalisation process. This means you don’t have to copy and paste client details or search everywhere for what you need. Plus, any emails your company receives in Outlook are immediately visible in your field service management tool.
This is something Iain Barral, MD of SVS praises BigChange for; “The integration between Microsoft Office 365 and BigChange is a brilliant new feature,”
Emails received by SVS in Outlook are immediately visible in the relevant customer record (in BigChange) so everything is in one place and seamlessly linked.
📞Web-based phone systems
When you integrate with web-based phone systems like RingCentral, when a customer or prospect calls, their details will automatically pop up on your screen. You’ll see their name, the company, and any notes about them. (Just like in the image below). This really boosts customer interaction.
🪄ERP and custom integrations
Some platforms, like BigChange, are designed for easy integration with a range of systems, including ERP solutions like Oracle and SAP, as well as other tools such as PowerBI.
These integrations can be synced either through our extensive library of web services for DIY integration or through our Professional Services team for bespoke needs.
How integrations help: A side-by-side comparison
While traditional approaches often involve a patchwork of disjointed systems and manual processes, integrated solutions offer a streamlined, efficient, and more reliable way of managing operations.
This comparison table lays out the stark differences between managing field service with and without the power of modern integrations:
As you can see, integrated field service management software transforms chaotic, time-consuming manual processes into streamlined, automated, and highly efficient operations. From finance and accounting to customer relationship management, the right integrations make operations smoother, more accurate, and more responsive to customer needs.
This is a reinvention of how field service businesses can operate at their best. For those on the fence about adopting integrated software solutions, this comparison hopefully shows the benefits they bring to the table.
Boost field service management with seamless integrations
Having everything you need in one place is incredibly important when managing a field service business. Switching back and forth between tabs and programs can easily get confusing and time-consuming.
That’s why BigChange has so many options to easily integrate different systems so you can manage everything directly in the software. It’s straightforward and quick to get set up. (No need for complicated or long-winded setups.) Plus, you can customise the settings to suit what you want to see and how you want to work.
And we’re continuing to work on even more development for integrations, so you will be able to streamline even more.
Bottom line: Field service management integrations cut out unnecessary processes and ensure you and your team can easily access everything needed to provide the best customer service to your clients. Plus, it ensures your team is better prepared for every job.
For a full walkthrough of how you can integrate with BigChange’s field service management software, talk to us today.
Or if you haven’t invested in field service management software yet, take a look at our complete guide here.
