Four apps designed specifically for general contractors

As a general contractor, you’re used to working with your hands. Whether you’re measuring pieces of wood, pouring a foundation or putting together scaffolding, there are specific tools that help you get the job done. What you might not realize is that there are a variety of mobile apps that can improve the efficiency of your daily processes. By combining digital technology with your physical hand tools, it’s possible to save time, lower the risk of injuries and provide more satisfying project outcomes.

Digital apps are great, but there are hundreds to choose from. If you aren’t very tech-savvy, it can be difficult knowing which program will best meet your needs. To take some of the pressure off, we’ve compiled a list of four of our favorites. Keep reading to learn more.

1.) Construction Calculator. Construction Calculator is an award-winning app designed with simplicity, usability and beauty in mind. It makes it easy to calculate all of the materials you’ll need for a specific project, including bricks, lumber, flooring and paint. The free version provides basic calculations, but if you upgrade for a small monthly fee, you can access other features such as stair and rafter calculations as well as measurement conversions and different themes.

2.) Autodesk BIM 360. Autodesk 360 is a cloud-based building information management program. You can access it from anywhere with an internet connection –– at home, in the office or on the job site. Autodesk has a variety of unique capabilities that allow you to manage all aspects of a project, including safety, commissioning, quality and documentation. You can also use digital pushpins to mark field locations or to highlight potential issues that need monitoring or repair.

3.) GasBuddy. As a general contractor, you regularly have to leave the job site to pick up hardware, lumber, and other key building components. All of that back and forth can quickly add up in the form of an exorbitant monthly gas bill. You might not be able to cut back on supply runs, but you can save on fuel with an app like GasBuddy. GasBuddy makes it easy to save up to 25 cents per gallon on every fill-up. Simply enter your location information, and the app will find the cheapest gas in your area.

4.) OSHA Safety app. Construction is a dangerous profession. One of the easiest ways to protect yourself, your team members and the project you’re working on is to familiarize yourself with all of the Occupational Safety and Health Administration’s rules and regulations. The OSHA Safety app makes it possible to do that from any smartphone or tablet. In addition to listing all of OSHA”s current Part 1910 regulations, the OSHA Safety App provides regular updates and a weekly news bulletin.

Are there any apps that you’d add to our list? If so, visit our Facebook page and leave a comment to let us know.

We hope these tools help make you more productive. Enjoy!