Craftsman software: No more chaos with paper, bring on the efficiency!
Digitalization has long since arrived in the trades and is turning some traditional workflows upside down. A modern craftsman software is much more than just another tool – it is a true strategic partner for your business. Are you wondering how exactly you can benefit from it? Just imagine: Your entire order processing, from the first quote to the final invoice, runs digitally and transparently. That’s exactly what a specialized craftsman software does. It helps you maintain clarity, eliminate sources of error, and save valuable time that you can then invest directly into your core business. Implementing the right craftsman software is indeed a crucial step to keep your craft business competitively viable in the long term and ready for the future. Discover the many possibilities with us and best start today into a more efficient workday!
- Strategic partner: Digitizes the entire order processing from quote to invoice.
- Efficiency increase: Optimizes commercial and organizational tasks, automates processes, and reduces errors.
- Improved overview: Ensures higher data quality, more transparency, and saves valuable time.
- Wide target audience: Ideal for small to large craft businesses, often with industry-specific adaptations.
What exactly is craftsman software and why is it so important?
By craftsman software we mean specialized software programs designed to optimize the many commercial and organizational tasks in craft businesses. It starts with digital quoting and order management, continues with time tracking and materials management, up to invoicing and managing your customer relationships. The importance of such software for efficiency enhancement can hardly be overstated: Manual processes, which are often error-prone and true time wasters, are automated and standardized. The result? Less administrative effort, but also a significant improvement in data quality and more transparency.In our increasingly digital world, using a professional craftsman software is simply essential to stay competitive and meet the rising expectations of customers and the market. It enables companies to respond faster to inquiries and calculate projects more accurately.
Who is this for? Target audience and application areas
The target audience for craftsman software is truly wide-ranging. It includes small and medium-sized craft businesses (SMEs) as well as larger companies and construction firms. Particularly for SMEs, for which there are often craftsman software for small businesses available, this is a great opportunity to present professionally with little administrative effort and streamline internal processes. Larger companies, in turn, benefit from scalability and often more extensive modules for project management and resource planning. Certain industries like plumbing, heating, and air conditioning (PHVAC), electrical installation, painting and varnishing, or roofing often find industry-specific solutions tailored to their unique requirements – for instance, with special calculation bases or material catalogs. A good craftsman software, like those offered by or Fieldwire, often addresses the needs of construction companies as well.What’s included? The core functions of modern craftsman software for your success
Modern craftsman software really packs a lot of features designed to noticeably simplify your workday and significantly boost your productivity. From the very first customer inquiry to project completion and the final invoice – these craftsman software systems cover all important areas. When these processes are digitized, it not only reduces annoying paperwork but also minimizes sources of error and ensures clear, transparent workflows. This gives you the freedom to focus more on your actual craft activity while the commercial aspects of your business are managed efficiently. A well-thought-out craftsman software is thus a central element for your economic success and future viability in the trades.
- Order management made easy: Digitize quoting and order management for quick calculations and perfect overview.
- Keep track of personnel and times: Benefit from mobile time tracking, optimized personnel planning, and seamless payroll integration.
- Seamless communication & documentation: Use a central platform for all project documents, construction logs, and even messenger integrations.
Order management and quoting – end the chaos with paper!
Digitalizing the quoting process is a core element of many craftsman software solutions. Instead of painstakingly typing offers by hand, you can rely on pre-defined service specifications and material databases. This allows for a really fast and precise calculation of your offers. Once created, offers can be transformed into orders with just a few clicks and projects can be planned in detail. Thanks to the central management of all orders, you always have the optimal overview of ongoing and completed projects. Features like the project management board known from Plancraft or the ability to create digital measurements, are incredibly valuable. The time savings and the reduction of errors from such digital order management with craftsman software are truly remarkable and contribute directly to your profitability.
Time tracking and personnel planning – keep everything in view
An efficient time tracking in the trades is paramount for accurate payroll and clean cost tracking on your projects. Modern craftsman software often comes with mobile apps that allow your employees to track their working hours directly on-site at the construction site – sometimes even with GPS location for verification. This data flows directly into the craftsman software and is available for deployment planning and resource management. This way, you can optimally assign your staff and identify bottlenecks early. The integration with payroll services, for example, via a DATEV interface, as offered by many providers like HERO Software or Lexware Handwerk, automates another important process and significantly reduces the administrative burden caused by the craftsman software . This ensures a accurate and legally compliant billing – and less headache.
Communication and documentation – nothing gets lost
Clear and traceable communication is simply essential in the trades – both internally within the team and externally with customers. A good craftsman software serves as a central hub here. It allows for the structured storage of all project-related documents, from plans and photos to acceptance protocols. A digital construction log or photo documentation, like those offered by openHandwerk, creates legal certainty and transparency. We particularly find the integration of messenger services like WhatsApp or Telegram, as we enable at Valoon GmbH. This allows for fast and uncomplicated communication in the trades via app, with the content being documented directly in the project. This way, no important information is lost and all participants are always on the same page. craftsman software dokumentiert werden. So gehen keine wichtigen Infos verloren und alle Beteiligten sind immer auf dem gleichen Stand.The agony of choice? Here’s how to find your perfect craftsman software!
Choosing the right craftsman software is an important strategic decision for your company. The market is full of solutions that differ significantly in functionality, price, and focus. To find the craftsman software that optimally meets your specific requirements and sustainably improves your workday, careful analysis and a structured selection process are essential. It’s not just about choosing the software with the most features, but the one that best supports your processes and truly adds value. A well-chosen craftsman software can really significantly increase efficiency in the crafts.
- Clearly define your needs: Analyze exactly which functions are indispensable for your business size and industry and what future requirements there might be.
- Choose the right model: Weigh the pros and cons of flexible cloud solutions against installed software with more data control.
- Keep track of costs: Compare pricing models, watch for hidden fees, and utilize free trial periods for evaluation.
What do you really need? Needs analysis and requirements
Before you start searching for a craftsman software , a thorough needs analysis is paramount. Ask yourself honestly: Which processes should be digitized? Which functions are absolutely essential for your business and which would be more of a “nice to have”? Make sure to consider the size of your company and your specific industry. A small painting business simply has different requirements than a large PHVAC company. Also think about the future: Is the software scalable and can it grow with your business? A detailed list of your requirements helps you effectively search the market and compare offers more easily. This ensures that the chosen craftsman software also fits your needs in the long run.
Cloud or prefer installation? Weighing pros and cons
When choosing a craftsman software , you often face the decision: Cloud solution (SaaS) or classic installed software (On-Premise)? Cloud solutions, like those offered by providers such as Plancraft or HERO Software, provide great flexibility and often lower initial costs , as you don’t need your own server infrastructure. Updates happen automatically, and access is possible from anywhere – super convenient! In contrast, installed solutions, such as those partially offered by TAIFUN, potentially provide more control over your own data, but also require IT know-how for maintenance and backups. Hybrid models attempt to combine the advantages of both worlds. The decision ultimately depends on your preferences regarding data security, costs, and your IT resources. However, for most craft businesses, the advantages of a cloud-based craftsman software.
clearly outweigh today.
What should it cost? Keeping an eye on costs and pricing models craftsman software The costs for craftsman software , don’t just look at the obvious price but also at possible hidden costs for training, support, or additional modules that may come later. Many providers, such as Lexware with its ‘plus’ and ‘premium’ versions, offer different packages for various business sizes. Be sure to take advantage of free trial periods to closely examine the software and its price-performance ratio before purchasing a craftsman software.Who can do what? Top providers of craftsman software compared
The market for craftsman software is really diverse and has a wide range of solutions tailored to the different needs of craft businesses. From established giants to innovative startups – the selection can be quite overwhelming at first. However, taking a closer look at the leading systems, their core functions, and what makes them special helps you make a well-informed decision. It’s essential to choose a craftsman software that not only meets your current requirements but is also future-proof and can adapt to changing market conditions. A careful examination is key to the optimal craftsman software for your business.
Who is who? An overview of leading providers
Well-known providers of craftsman software include Plancraft, which promotes simplicity and time savings and claims to save up to 4 hours per week. HERO Software positions itself as a comprehensive solution with many integrations, including Lexware Office and IDS Connect, and even has prominent support from Niclas Füllkrug. Lexware Handwerk is a proven solution available in different versions (‘plus’ and ‘premium’) for various business sizes and offers a 30-day trial period. TAIFUN offers scalable solutions for SMEs and larger companies with TAIFUNHandwerk and TAIFUNopenBusiness and emphasizes GoBD compliance. Other interesting providers include openHandwerk, which focuses heavily on cloud and mobile usage, WINWORKER with a comprehensive service approach, and mexXsoft X2, which highlights a modular structure and AI-assisted text creation. Each of these craftsman software solutions has its specific strengths.
What can they do? Comparison of core functions and unique selling propositions
When comparing craftsman software , pay particular attention to core functions such as order management, mobile time tracking, and invoicing. Plancraft scores points with its project board and simple operation. HERO Software emphasizes its wide range of interfaces (DATEV, GAEB, Datanorm) and the construction site planner feature. Lexware Handwerk offers specific functions such as measurement calculation and service order management. TAIFUN, on the other hand, is distinguished by its scalability and various additional modules. A true unique selling proposition of our Valoon GmbH software is the seamless integration of popular messenger services like WhatsApp. This automatically transforms unstructured communication into usable project data – a huge advantage for the communication in the trades via app. OpenHandwerk emphasizes real-time post-calculation and integration with over 20 systems. WINWORKER focuses on GoBD compliance and service. And mexXsoft X2 offers AI support and an interface reminiscent of Office. Which craftsman software is right for you depends heavily on your individual priorities.
Prices, tests, and opinions: What do others say?
A direct price comparison of craftsman software is often quite challenging because the pricing models and functionalities vary so greatly. Prices range from around €500 to over €1,000 for basic packages, as demonstrated by the comparisons. However, with cloud solutions, subscription fees may also apply. For instance, HERO Software is named a test winner in certain categories by trusted.de. It is advisable to read independent reviews and customer testimonials to get a feel for the strengths and weaknesses of the respective craftsman software . Many providers, including Plancraft (7 days) and Lexware (30 days), offer free trial periods . You should definitely utilize these to test the craftsman software within your own operational environment thoroughly and determine whether it meets your needs and if the usability fits for you. This is the best way to make an informed decision for a craftsman software..Your office in your pocket: Mobile apps in the trades
The importance of mobile solutions in the trades? It really can’t be overstated! In an industry where so many employees are out in the field, apps for smartphones and tablets enable direct access to important project data, efficient time tracking in the trades , and significantly improved communication. A well-crafted mobile craftsman software app is therefore not just any add-on but a vital component of a modern craftsman software. It boosts productivity, reduces errors, and ensures that everyone is always up to date – no matter where they are. Investing in a craftsman software with a strong mobile component pays off quickly.
What can the apps do? Functions and application areas
Mobile apps as part of the craftsman software come packed with a lot of functions that noticeably ease the daily work routine. The mobile time tracking, often with GPS functionality, enables accurate and uncomplicated recording of working hours directly at the construction site – just like HERO Software or openHandwerk provide. The photo documentation and the digital construction log are other important application areas that ensure seamless documentation of project progress. The task management in the trades via app and ordering materials directly on the go are often seen features of a good craftsman software. Some apps, like the ones mentioned by Streit Software, also offer functions like LV and measurement (MWM-Piccolo) or ordering features. The Fischer PRO app helps, for example, in product selection. A comprehensive craftsman software app bundles all these functions and becomes the central information source for on-the-go.
The key benefits of mobile craftsman apps at a glance
Here are some of the key advantages you can achieve through the use of mobile apps in your craftsman software :
- More flexibility hardly exists: Your employees can access project data, plans, and task lists from anywhere and update information in real time. This allows for quicker decisions and responses to unforeseen issues that happen on the construction site.
- Accurate data: By directly digitally capturing working hours, material use, and project progress on-site, transfer errors are avoided and data quality increases significantly. This leads to more accurate calculations and billing.
- Better communication: Mobile apps facilitate direct communication between the office and the construction site and within the team. Photo documentation and notes can be shared quickly, reducing misunderstandings and improving collaboration.
WhatsApp & Co. at work? How messenger services become an efficiency booster!
Integrating messenger services like WhatsApp directly into a craftsman software is an innovative approach to rethink communication and data processing in the trades. Many field employees are already using messenger services for quick arrangements privately. By now incorporating these familiar tools into professional workflows, barriers to acceptance of new craftsman software can be lowered, and efficiency can be significantly enhanced. That’s exactly what we specialize in at Valoon GmbH: We build this bridge and transform everyday messenger communication into structured project data. This greatly simplifies data collection and improves the information flow between field personnel and the office sustainably. Thus, the craftsman software becomes especially user-friendly.
What are the benefits? The advantages of messenger integration
The integration of messenger services into your craftsman software has many advantages. The communication becomes faster and more straightforward, as your employees can use tools they are already familiar with. This is particularly valuable for the communication in the trades via app. Photos from the construction site, short status updates, or material requests can be quickly sent directly via WhatsApp, and the craftsman software automatically assigns them to the correct project. Our solution at Valoon GmbH even goes a step further: We enable advanced features like buttons, lists, and forms directly in the messenger. This automates processes and structures data collection, without the employee having to open a separate app. And the automatic translation into over 50 languages? Another significant plus for internationally operating teams or when collaborating with foreign-language colleagues. This underlines how versatile our craftsman software is.
WhatsApp at work – what does data protection say?
Of course, when using WhatsApp and similar messenger services in a business context, you must keep an eye on data protection aspects, particularly the GDPR. The consent of the users (i.e., employees and potentially customers) to data processing is usually a must. Additionally, it must be ensured that data transmission and storage are handled securely. Our craftsman software at Valoon GmbH takes these challenges seriously. We strive for a GDPR-compliant integration and direct the communication, for example, through a central craftsman software platform that stores the data in a structured and secure manner. It’s important for companies to establish clear guidelines for using messengers and to train their employees accordingly. Alternatively, one could also consider closed business messenger solutions designed from the start for corporate requirements – even if acceptance here is often not quite as high as for widely used services like WhatsApp.A glimpse into the crystal ball: What the future holds for craftsman software
Developments in the field of craftsman software are truly ongoing. Technological advances constantly open up new possibilities to make work processes in the trades even more efficient, transparent, and intelligent. From artificial intelligence to Building Information Modeling to Augmented Reality – the future promises truly exciting innovations! These developments aim to further relieve craft businesses, increase planning accuracy, and optimize collaboration among all project participants. It is crucial for companies to keep an eye on these trends in order to lay the foundation for a successful digital future and fully exploit the potentials of the latest generation of craftsman software .
What AI and automation can do for us
Artificial intelligence (AI) and automation will play an increasingly important role in the craftsman software , we are sure. Just imagine that your craftsman software automatically creates tailor-made offers and calculations based on project data and experience . AI can also assist in optimized task planning and resource allocation by, for example, optimizing travel routes or considering the availability of staff and materials. Another exciting area is predictive maintenance, where sensor data and AI are used to predict maintenance needs and minimize failures. The mexXsoft X2 software is already indicating AI-supported text creation. These technologies really have the potential to dramatically increase. KI kann auch bei der optimierten Aufgabenplanung und Ressourcenzuweisung helfen, indem sie beispielsweise Fahrtwege optimiert oder die Verfügbarkeit von Mitarbeitern und Material berücksichtigt. Ein weiterer spannender Bereich ist Predictive Maintenance, also die vorausschauende Wartung. Dabei werden Sensordaten und KI genutzt, um den Wartungsbedarf von Anlagen vorherzusagen und Ausfälle zu minimieren. Die mexXsoft X2 Software deutet ja schon KI-unterstützte Texterstellung an. Diese Technologien haben echt das Potenzial, die efficiency and planning in the crafts and are a key trend for the craftsman software of tomorrow.
BIM – The digital model for better building
Building Information Modeling (BIM) is a method for optimizing the planning, execution, and management of buildings using software. The integration of BIM data into craftsman software is becoming increasingly important, especially for larger construction projects. BIM allows for a continuous digital representation of all relevant building data, which significantly improves collaboration between architects, specialist planners, and the executing craft businesses. Errors can be detected early, and collisions can be avoided. For us craftsmen, this means improved planning and execution reliability. . Future. Zukünftige craftsman software is expected to offer even deeper BIM integrations to simplify data exchange and make the advantages of this method accessible to smaller companies as well. This further drives the efficiency increase in the crafts through software .
The key trends for tomorrow’s craftsman software
The future of craftsman software will be shaped by several major trends, we are quite sure:
- Cloud first and mobile in focus: Most new solutions will be cloud-based and will place a strong focus on powerful mobile apps. This ensures flexibility and real-time access, which is just super practical.
- More interfaces and open systems: The ability to seamlessly connect to other systems (e.g., accounting, supplier portals, smart home systems) will become even more important. Open interfaces (APIs) will allow for individual adaptations.
- It must be simple:craftsman software must be intuitive to use, so that it is truly accepted and utilized by all employees – that is exactly what we strive for at Valoon with our WhatsApp integration.
New software, new luck? Here’s how you can master the introduction effortlessly.
A new craftsman software to implement is an important step to make your business fit for the future. But of course, it can also bring some challenges. From employee acceptance to technical implementation, there are several hurdles to overcome. Careful planning, open communication, and selecting the right craftsman software partner are crucial for a successful transition. It’s important to view this process not just as a purely technical adjustment but as an organizational change that must involve everyone. With the right strategy, you can ensure that your new craftsman software unleashes its full potential and becomes a real asset for your company.
“We’ve always done it this way” – Resistance and Acceptance
One of the biggest hurdles when introducing new craftsman software is often the resistance to change among employees. Of course, familiar workflows need to be adjusted, which can initially lead to uncertainty. To promote acceptance, early and transparent communication is key. Involve your employees in the selection process and clearly explain the benefits of the new craftsman software for their daily work. Provide comprehensive training and workshops – just like WINWORKER does as part of its service package. Show success stories and good examples from other businesses. When employees recognize the benefits and feel confident using the craftsman software , their willingness to actually use it increases significantly.
Old data, new system – Migration and Integration
Transferring legacy data from old systems or Excel spreadsheets to the new craftsman software can be quite a tricky task. Careful planning of the data migration is crucial to avoid data loss or errors. Many providers, like HERO Software, also offer support for data importing. Make sure to clarify in advance which data needs to be transferred and in what format it will be provided. The integration with existing systems, such as accounting or specific industry applications, must also be considered. Ensure that the new craftsman software comes with the necessary interfaces (e.g., DATEV, GAEB, Datanorm). Professional support from the software provider or external service providers can be exceptionally valuable in ensuring a smooth transition.Your path to success: Why the right trade software is invaluable
Choosing modern craftsman software software is a real investment in the future viability and competitiveness of your business. By digitizing and automating your processes, you can not only increase efficiency and reduce costs, but also enhance the quality of your work and customer satisfaction. The range of solutions available is so vast that every business can find the right craftsman software for its individual needs – from simple invoicing to comprehensive project management. Careful selection and a well-planned implementation are key to success.
In summary: The main benefits
Using the right craftsman software brings you a host of advantages. At the top of the list is the significant increase in efficiency, as routine tasks like creating quotes, invoicing, and the time tracking in the trades are automated. This leads to noticeable cost reductions and creates space for your core business activities. Communication and collaboration, both internally within the team and with your customers, improve significantly due to centralized data management and mobile access options. And finally, you gain more transparency and control over your projects and finances through a professional craftsman software . This sustainably strengthens your company’s competitiveness. The digital task management also ensures clear responsibilities – and fewer misunderstandings.
Our tips for your journey to the right software
For all trades businesses that are now taking the step into digitalization or want to optimize their existing craftsman software , we have a few recommendations. The best approach is to proceed methodically: Start with a detailed analysis of your current processes and needs. What exactly do you need? Define clear requirements for the craftsman software. Then compare different providers and solutions. Pay attention not only to the price but also to the range of functions, user-friendliness, and the support you will receive. Be sure to use free trial periods to thoroughly test the craftsman software in your own business. And very importantly: Involve your employees from the very beginning to promote acceptance. The right craftsman software is a truly powerful tool to make your business fit for the future. We at Valoon GmbH provide you with a particularly accessible solution focused on ease of use and smart messenger integration to quickly leverage the benefits of digitalization. Explore your options now and feel free to get in touch with us. We will advise you individually and help you take your business to the next level!
How does trade software specifically help me in everyday life when my employees are often on the go?
Trade software enables mobile access to project data, digital time tracking directly on-site, and an improved communication between the office and the field service. This saves time, reduces errors, and significantly increases the efficiency of your field staff.
Is the integration of WhatsApp into trade software GDPR-compliant?
Yes, if the software solution, like at Valoon GmbH, is designed for GDPR-compliant processing. The key is the consent of the users and a secure, centralized data storage that goes beyond mere messenger communication and structures it.
What costs should I expect with trade software and are there also solutions for small businesses?
Costs vary widely, from one-time license fees (often starting at around €500) to monthly subscriptions for cloud solutions. Many providers have special and often more affordable packages for small businesses.It’s important to check the overall scope and potential additional costs and to take advantage of free trial periods.
My employees are not very tech-savvy. Is trade software still suitable for us?
Yes, absolutely. Modern trade software emphasizes ease of use and intuitive functionality.Solutions that leverage familiar tools like messenger services, such as Valoon GmbH with its WhatsApp integration, significantly lower the entry barrier and require minimal training effort..
What are the key features I should look for when selecting trade software?
Look for core functions such as digital order management (from quotes to invoices), mobile time tracking, an efficient communication solution (possibly with messenger integration for the field service), material management, and important interfaces (e.g., DATEV, DATANORM, GAEB). Industry-specific adjustments may also be relevant.
Can trade software also assist with material management and the creation of construction logs?
Yes, many comprehensive trade software solutions offer modules for digital material management, including ordering processes and connections to supplier catalogs (e.g., via DATANORM/IDS). Additionally, the creation of digital construction logs and photo documentation is a common and important function for legally secure project documentation.
