Measurements via App: How to save time and avoid mistakes with digital helpers
Why a dedicated app for measurements is essential today
Do you know this too? Paper, pen, and calculator – the traditional measurements are not only a real time sink but unfortunately also quite error-prone. A modern app for measurements completely transforms this process and provides a significant boost in efficiency and accuracy on the construction site. Transfer errors due to digital capture? Outdated! Illegible handwriting? A thing of the past! Additionally, such an app for measurements gathers all important data in one central location. This tremendously and sustainably improves communication and collaboration within the team – especially between the construction site and the office. The digital capture directly on-site, as our solutions for mobile data collection in construction enable, is a key point. With a app for measurements specialized measuring app, many companies, particularly in traditional sectors like construction, are taking a significant step towards digitization.
- Significantly increases efficiency and accuracy on the construction site.
- Prevents transfer errors and eliminates issues caused by illegible handwriting.
- Collects all important data in one central location, enhancing teamwork and communication.
- Supports businesses, especially in traditional sectors like construction, in the crucial step towards digitization.
In this article, we want to show you what modern measurement apps can do, what to look for when selecting one, and where they are practically applied. We want to help you find the app for measurements one that perfectly fits you and your projects. Because that’s what it’s all about: fully exploiting the opportunities of digitization and bringing your workflows up to speed. Discover with us how, with the right technology, you can not only save time and money, but also enhance the quality of your work and increase your customers’ satisfaction. For craft businesses, a specialized contractor measurement software can often make all the difference.
What’s in it for you? The key benefits of a measurement app at a glance:
Integrating a app for measurements into everyday work brings a whole range of advantages – and these go far beyond just saving time. Here are the most important plus points that such a app for measurements offers:
- Fewer mistakes: Enter directly in digital form and let it calculate automatically – this significantly minimizes human error sources.
- Better documentation: Photos, notes, sketches – everything is included during the measurement. This ensures a complete and clear documentation.
- Faster to the offer: The captured data often flows directly into the calculation and quotation software. This greatly accelerates the entire process.
- More transparency: Everyone in the project has access to current and consistent data. This makes everything much more transparent and improves communication.
What modern measurement apps can do: From simple measurements to clever messenger integration
What every app should be able to do – and what the professionals have mastered
Of course, every good app for measurements must have the basics covered: Capture lengths, areas, and volumes while supporting various units of measurement. But modern apps can do much more: Integration with laser distance meters – think of devices from , Bosch GLM, or Würth WDM – is an absolute must for many professionals today. This way, the measurement data flows directly and error-free into the app for measurements. Additional features often include detailed photo documentation with annotations directly in the image, digital sketches, and sometimes even 3D modeling, like what the can do. Some app for measurements even understands your language for notes – making input quicker, and you have your hands free. And if the app for measurements calculates complex areas and volumes automatically, it saves a lot of time and avoids calculation errors.
- Basic measurements: Capturing lengths, areas, and volumes in various units of measurement.
- Laser integration: Direct and error-free data transmission from compatible laser distance meters.
- Enhanced documentation: Integration of photo documentation with annotations, digital sketches, and partial 3D modeling capabilities.
- Automated calculations: Automatic calculation of complex areas and volumes to save time and avoid errors.
Cleverly manage, export, and – our twist – use via messenger
Good data management is the key to every professional app for measurements. This includes being able to export captured data in various formats – PDF, JPEG, PNG, but also in industry formats like GAEB, CSV, or XML. This ensures that everything works seamlessly with your other software, for calculations or invoices. Many apps store data in the cloud and automatically synchronize it. This way, everyone in the project has access to the latest information anytime and from anywhere. At Valoon GmbH, we take it a step further: Our solution seamlessly integrates popular messaging services like WhatsApp, Telegram, and MS Teams. This fairly unique feature allows your field staff to use their familiar tools, while communication is automatically transformed into structured project data. This is a vital part of our mobile solutions for the construction industry and makes the digital capture on-site much simpler.Finding the right app: What to consider with compatibility, usability, and integration
Does the app fit your technology? And is it easy to use?
If you are looking for the right app for measurements one, a very important point is: Does it fit your existing hardware? Check carefully whether the app for measurements supports your laser distance meters. Equally important: Does the app run on the smartphones and tablets you use in your company – whether iOS or Android? A child’s play to operate and clear menus are worth their weight in gold, so your employees will enjoy using the app and you won’t have to train them endlessly. A good app for measurements should be designed in a way that even colleagues who are not so tech-savvy can work with it quickly and efficiently. For us, user-friendliness is paramount, to make the transition to digitization as simple as possible.
- Hardware compatibility: Check support for your laser distance meters as well as for the smartphones and tablets used in the company (iOS/Android).
- User-friendliness: Pay attention to intuitive operation and clear navigation to ensure high acceptance among employees and minimal training effort.
- Suitability for all users: The app should be designed so that even less tech-savvy colleagues can work quickly and efficiently with it.
What must the app be able to do? What should it cost? And how does it fit into your workflows?
There are countless measurement apps on the market – from free versions with limited functions to hefty subscription packages that cost money. Consider carefully, what functionality you really need, so you don’t pay for frills that you will never use. Also think about what may become important in the future. Another crucial point: The app must seamlessly integrate into your existing software and your workflows. Many craft businesses already use industry software, such as from , or . A good app for measurements should easily export data into common formats – GAEB for tenders, CSV for spreadsheets, or PDF for documentation. And very importantly, especially on construction sites with dead zones: Can the app for measurements also collect data offline? This is a huge plus and should definitely be considered when choosing a construction site app .
Being able to measure without a network – and how much good support is worth
On construction sites, a stable internet connection is not always guaranteed. That’s why it’s crucial that a measurement app also works offline. The app should be able to capture and store data without a network and then sync it later when a connection is available. Also, ensure that the provider offers good customer support. When issues arise or questions come up, quick help is invaluable to avoid downtime and remain productive. Many providers, as we have seen in our research, offer support via email or phone and continuously develop their apps with user feedback.Measurements with AR and photo: Cool technology for special cases
How do AR and photo apps work and when do they make sense?
In addition to the traditional methods, often with laser distance meters, augmented reality (AR) and photo measurements are becoming increasingly interesting. AR apps like or MasterPlan AR use the camera from a mobile phone or tablet to set virtual measurement points in the real space and calculate distances or areas from there. Apps that are photo-based, like SimpleMeasure or the photo measurement feature of the , extract dimensions directly from an image – often requiring a known reference size. These techniques are great when a app for measurements supports it, to quickly estimate or take measurements at hard-to-reach places without having to set up scaffolding or a ladder. Such a app for measurements can really simplify the process in certain situations.
How accurate is it? Where are the limits, and when is it worth it?
Even though AR and photo apps offer cool new possibilities, they are often not as precise as measurements with lasers. The results depend heavily on light conditions, the surface being measured, and the quality of the camera. For very accurate measurements needed for material orders or billing, such AR or photo-based app for measurements are therefore not always the best choice. However, they show their strengths when it comes to quick rough measurements, for example during the initial site visit, or when a visual documentation with approximate measurements is sufficient. For detailed and precise measurements, such as those often needed for a window measurement app , specialized solutions are usually better. Whether an AR-based app for measurements fits depends on the specific requirements of the project.More than just measuring: Measurement apps working in conjunction with construction management software
Why the combination is invaluable for the entire construction process
A measurement app only truly becomes powerful when it interacts with comprehensive construction management software. This connection creates a app for measurements completely digital workflow : from the first measurement on-site with the: von der ersten Messung auf der Baustelle mit der app for measurements to calculations and offers, all the way to invoices and project documentation. This optimizes the entire construction process, as data no longer needs to be manually moved between different systems. This not only saves time but also minimizes errors and makes the data more uniform and better. Also, collaboration between the office and the construction site greatly improves as everyone works with the same current data. A well-integrated app for measurements is thus a key component for successful digital construction management.
What this looks like in practice and why interfaces are so important
Many construction software providers have recognized this and either offer their own measurement apps or ensure that apps from other manufacturers can be integrated. Examples of such combined solutions are the aforementioned systems from , , or the . These systems often allow data to flow directly from the app for measurements to calculation and invoicing. For this to work well, standardized interfaces are essential. The GAEB interface is particularly important as it standardizes the exchange of specifications and measurement data – not just for public tenders. With API interfaces, it’s also possible to create completely customized adaptations to your IT landscape, thus creating a tailored solution for the mobile data collection in construction .From practice: How different trades use measurement apps
The right app solution for every trade
Depending on the trade you are working in, the requirements for a app for measurements can be quite different. In the SHK sector (sanitation, heating, air conditioning), for example, apps like are popular, often bringing special functions for bathroom planning or heating calculation. For landscaping, there are solutions like , which are precisely tailored to the needs of measuring outdoor facilities and simplify the capture of terrain profiles or planting areas. Painters, plasterers, and stucco workers appreciate apps like the . These have functions for room measurements and photo measurements of facades, while also adhering to VOB (i.e., measurement rules and so on). This shows how important it is to choose a app for measurements that truly fits the workflows and requirements of one’s own trade. For many craftsmen, a general craftsman software with built-in measurement functionality is a good thing.
What it really brings: success with measurement apps in numbers
Many examples from practice show what the introduction of a app for measurements can achieve positive results. Companies report that they save a lot of time on measurements – sometimes up to 70% compared to the old method with paper and pen, as CATSmobil mentions for its solution. This time savings from the app for measurements not only comes from faster data capture but also from reduced rework and error avoidance. Costs are also improving as fewer labor hours are spent on measurements and materials can be calculated more accurately. The better documentation also leads to fewer inquiries and misunderstandings. This speeds up the entire project processing and increases customer satisfaction. The money spent on good app for measurements is often recouped in a short time. The digital What’s important for your industry: focusing on special functions
Was für Ihre Branche wichtig ist: Spezielle Funktionen im Fokus
Finding the right app for measurements depends heavily on what your industry needs. Here are a few important functions that may be particularly interesting for certain trades:
- Sanitation, heating, air conditioning (SHK): Product databases, pipeline planning, VDI 3805 sheet interfaces. A specialized sanitation measurement app can really shine here.
- Window and door construction: Precise measurements for openings, connections, fittings. A window measurement app is often essential.
- Civil engineering: Longitudinal and transverse profiles, volume calculations for earthworks, GPS integration. A specialized measurement app for civil engineering can make work here easier.
Overcoming hurdles and looking forward: what’s coming with measurement apps
Where there can be pitfalls – and how to tackle them
Even though the advantages are clear, implementing a new app for measurements can sometimes be challenging. One of the biggest hurdles is often getting the employees on board – especially when they have been working the old way for a long time. It helps to clearly explain the benefits and to provide proper training. Don’t underestimate the training effort at first, but it’s money well invested in future efficiency. Another important topic: Data security and data protection. Especially when sensitive project data is in the cloud or shared via messenger. Here, one should rely on providers who have clear security concepts and operate in compliance with the GDPR. At Valoon GmbH, we take data security and the protection of your data very seriously. You can rely on this when you use our app for measurements .
What the future holds: AI, BIM, and more automation
In the field of app for measurements there is constant change. Exciting is how measurement methods with AR and artificial intelligence (AI) are evolving. AI could soon help automatically recognize objects, measure even more accurately, and perhaps even detect problems early on. The demand for better integration with Building Information Modeling (BIM) is also growing.
When measurement data flows directly into BIM models and vice versa, this will improve planning and construction, taking collaboration among all parties to a new level. In the long run, the bessere Anbindung an Building Information Modeling (BIM). Wenn Aufmaßdaten direkt in BIM-Modelle fließen und umgekehrt, wird das die Planung und den Bau weiter verbessern und die Zusammenarbeit aller Beteiligten auf ein neues Level heben. Langfristig wird wohl der entire measurement process will become more automated – from data capture to the complete measurement protocol. The use of drone measurement software is an example of such modern technologies already in existence. A modern app for measurements measurement app is increasingly becoming a smart assistant on the construction site.Your path to more efficiency: The most important points about measurement apps and a look ahead
The most important points summarized – and our tips for you
Finding the right app for measurements selecting and introducing a measurement app is a crucial step towards becoming more efficient and digital in the construction and craft industry. We have seen: These digital helpers not only replace error-prone paper management but also bring a wealth of functions to improve workflows – from precise measurements to seamless integration with other software to better communication within teams. With the right measurement app, you can save time, reduce costs, and improve the quality of your project documentation.. When making your selection, pay attention to factors such as: Does the app fit my hardware? Is it easy to use? What can it do? Does it integrate well? And what does it cost? Remember: The best app for measurements is the one that fits your needs best and integrates smoothly into your workflows.
A look into the crystal ball: The future of digital measurements
There is a lot going on with measurement apps, and it looks promising. We can expect that apps will become even smarter, easier to use, and better connected in the future. Technologies like artificial intelligence and augmented reality will completely reshape the capture and processing of data. The integration with BIM processes will become tighter and more comprehensive, allowing for planning and execution to work even better hand-in-hand. For us at Valoon GmbH, who specialize in better communication and project management through clever software , this means: We remain committed and continually develop our products, so you always have the best tools for your projects. A robust app for measurements is an essential building block.
Choosing a modern app for measurements is an investment in the future of your business. You’re not just measuring more accurately and working more efficiently, but you’re also significantly improving communication and collaboration. Seize the opportunities of digitization to make your projects even more successful and gain a competitive edge. Want to know how our solutions – especially our unique messenger integration – can make your measurements easier? Then just reach out to us! Contact us today for a personal consultation and discover how easy the transition to digital measurements can be. Register now and get your project workflows back on track!
What are the main advantages of a measurement app compared to the traditional method with pen and paper?
Integrating a app for measurements significantly increases efficiency on the construction site, by speeding up data capture and avoiding transfer errors. It enables a central data storage, improves team communication and leads to a more accurate and complete documentation with photos and notes.
Do measurement apps support common laser distance meters like Leica Disto or Bosch GLM?
Yes, many professional measurement apps offer a direct Bluetooth connection to common laser distance meters from manufacturers like Leica, Bosch, or Würth. This allows for a error-free and fast transmission of measurement data directly into the app.
In which formats can I export my measurement data, and can it be integrated into my construction software?
Most measurement apps support exporting to standard formats such as PDF, CSV, and often also GAEB or XML. This facilitates processing the data in your existing calculation or industry software (e.g., for offers and invoices).
Does a measurement app also work without an internet connection on the construction site?
Many good measurement apps offer an offline functionality. You can capture and store data even without an active internet connection. Once a connection is restored, the data is automatically synchronized.
. How does Valoon GmbH simplify data collection via messenger for field employees?
Valoon GmbH enables the seamless integration of messengers like WhatsApp. Field employees can use familiar tools to transmit data, which is then automatically converted into structured project data . This eliminates media breaks and greatly simplifies digital capture on-site.
Are there specialized measurement apps for specific trades like SHK, landscaping, or window construction?
Yes, there are measurement apps tailored to the specific needs of individual trades. Examples include solutions for SHK (e.g., ViSoft Smart), landscaping (e.g., smart to plan), or special functions for window measurements that consider industry-specific calculations and requirements. How accurate are measurement apps that work with augmented reality (AR) or photos?
Wie genau sind Aufmaß-Apps, die mit Augmented Reality (AR) oder Fotos arbeiten?
AR and photo-based measurement apps are useful for quick estimates and measurements in hard-to-reach places. However, their accuracy is generally lower than that of laser-based measurements and depends on factors like lighting conditions and surfaces. They are often less suitable for precise billing measurements.
What should I particularly pay attention to when selecting a measurement app for my company?
Important criteria include compatibility with your hardware (laser measuring devices, smartphones), intuitive usability , the necessaryfunctionality (including offline mode), the pricing model Preismodell as well as the integration capability into your existing software solutions and workflows.
