4 Big Reasons Big Data Matters In Field Service

By Paul Miles, Trimble PULSE

In our five-part “Work Connected Series”, we will explore the trends that will drive innovation in the field service market over the next few years. In part 2, we will focus on the influences of big data.

1 - Predictive Analytics Help Solve Inefficiencies

Making smarter, data-based decisions is a key innovation focus. With cloud-based analytics, organizations can bring disparate datasets to one place and harness the insights with all relevant information at their fingertips. 

• Machine Learning: This can be achieved through machine learning, where data is moved from a “rear-view” (reports that tell you what has happened/what the trends are) to a more predictive “forward-view” which can help with business planning.
• Optimized Workforce: Advanced and predictive analytics offers a tremendous opportunity for field service organizations to better optimize their workforce, which will drive improved utilization and ultimately, higher customer satisfaction. Gartner recently pointed out that data and analytics will drive modern business operations and not simply reflect their performance.
• Technician Scheduling: Scheduling field technicians often drives inefficiencies in organizations, particularly for assets in the field that move from one location to another, such as construction or agricultural equipment. Reacting to unplanned service needs from customers adds additional complexity that is often difficult for schedulers to account for when assigning tasks.