Do’s and Don’ts of Managing Field Workers

Almost any type of field worker can benefit from automation, for example,  field workers in the transportation industry can benefit from automation through the use of tools such as routing and dispatch software and GPS tracking. This can help to optimize routes and improve the efficiency of transportation operations.

Overall,  Software like Twnel can benefit field workers in a wide range of industries, helping them to improve efficiency, reduce errors, and provide better service to customers. In this article, I will explain the Do’s and Don’t when managing a field workforce. 

Do’s:

1. Provide clear and detailed instructions to your field workforce. This will help to ensure that they understand what is expected of them and can complete their tasks efficiently and effectively.

You can do this by sending a summary of the daily tasks that need to be completed as well as the requirements to consider them completed.

Take into account that field workers are not going to be able to check their emails on the field so you need to consider sending the instructions to their mobile phones using a dedicated channel for example Twnel Messenger.  In fact, most of the companies we work with don’t activate a corporate email account for their field workers (especially if they are not full-time employees), and using personal email seems inadequate. 

1. Use technology to optimize your field service operations. This can include tools such as scheduling and routing software, mobile apps, and GPS tracking.

Similarly to point number 1, consider using the proper technology. There are many options in the market, each one providing just one piece of the technology required to operate.

Make sure that you choose a SaaS (more flexible than regular software) that has all the components you need in one single place. Your workers can not keep switching from app to app just to complete their tasks. 

Twnel offers scheduling, process conversational automation, routing, GPS tracking, geofencing, and dispatch all in one single product that is flexible and modular.  

1. Regularly communicate with your field workforce to provide updates, support, and feedback. This can help to improve morale and ensure that your field workers have the information and resources they need to succeed.

When doing so make sure the response times from the help desk are being measured. Field workers can lose valuable time waiting for a help desk agent to respond which can affect your company’s reputation and relationship with clients. 

1. Invest in training and development for your field workforce. This will help to ensure that they have the skills and knowledge they need to perform their tasks effectively.

If needed, send broadcasts of safety reminders, or training guides instantly to refresh knowledge and avoid downtimes or accidents.  

Don’ts:

1. Don’t overburden your field workforce with unrealistic expectations or deadlines. This can lead to burnout and decreased productivity.
2. Don’t neglect to provide your field workforce with the necessary tools and equipment. This can hinder their ability to complete their tasks and provide good service to customers. (make sure to use the proper tool though!)  Remember they can’t carry a computer everywhere. 
3. Don’t ignore the safety and well-being of your field workforce. Ensure that they have the necessary protective equipment and training to work safely in the field. 
4. Don’t forget to regularly review and evaluate your field service operations. This will help to identify areas for improvement and ensure that your field workforce is operating efficiently and effectively.