Much of the mobile technology in the construction industry is designed to speed up internal processes, improve productivity and communication, or track work on the jobsite. One company looking to expand this reach is Texas-based SpawGlass. The company has designed an innovative mobile solution for its team that takes the back-end estimating process and puts it out in front of clients.
“With this new platform, we not only save time and improve efficiency, we bring our clients a transparent process that helps them make better decisions”
Designed with the end user in mind, the SpawGlass Targeted Estimating Database (TED) is an Apple® iPad® mobile app that helps with the development of a realistic budget for commercial construction projects by offering real-time, cost-per-square-foot pricing using the average historical costs of past projects. These estimations are kept current based on a published construction cost index.
With it, estimates for each of 49 pre-defined divisions can be referenced to similar projects for comparison. This makes brainstorming and modifying a project easy. Simply selecting the appropriate estimate for each division allows TED to do the math. Each comparison generates detailed descriptions and color photos to assist the user in visualizing a future facility. This robust technology creates an information-intensive project portfolio with a personalized estimate, as well as links to SpawGlass services and regional contacts, giving the client a platform from which real results can be built.
SpawGlass commissioned Austin-based Brilliant Solutions, Inc. to design the app to its specifications. “We’re already using tablet PCs to streamline project site management,” said Joel Stone, chief executive officer of SpawGlass. “One of our senior project managers, Bryan Kent, was convinced there was a way to harness the technology and take it a step further to improve our forward-facing operations.”
Kent took his ideas, which began with a Microsoft Excel spreadsheet, and propelled them into the app arena. “With this new platform, we not only save time and improve efficiency, we bring our clients a transparent process that helps them make better decisions,” Stone added.
Although TED is the company’s first iPad app, SpawGlass is no stranger to cutting edge technology. For several years, the company has utilized Building Information Modeling (BIM) to resolve issues before they hit the jobsite by detecting design conflicts and visualizing the virtual construction of facilities through multi-dimensional models. A second tool, Virtual To Field™ (V2F), allows field personnel to obtain the same accurate layout readings on a tablet PC equipped with a total robotic station.
To download the app, visit the Apple iTunes store at http://bit.ly/SpawGlassTED.
About SpawGlass
SpawGlass is a Texas-based general contractor, construction manager, design/builder and civil contractor with offices in Austin, Houston, North Texas, San Antonio and South Texas. Founded in 1953 by Louis Spaw and Frank Glass, the company has a lasting commitment to provide the highest standards of quality and service to clients, a safe and enriching work environment to employees, and support and involvement in the community. With more than 475 employees statewide, SpawGlass is 100 percent employee-owned. For more information, visit: http://www.spawglass.com/