02 Jan

5 small business tools you might not be using

Latham Australia

The digital age has infiltrated all aspects of our lives — from the way we communicate, learn, entertain ourselves and in many cases, the way we work. You might think that — as a small business or private contractor who’s often away from the desk — that these smart small business apps don’t apply to you.

What you might not realise, however, is that there’s a new generation of online tools available these days that have been developed specifically for contractors working in the building and construction industry. As a local, family run business, at Latham we’re always eager to explore new ideas and technologies that help keep us abreast with the latest developments in the global manufacturing trade — and we’ve discovered a host of online tools that help us continue to do so. For our clients, in the building and construction industry, we’d like to share our top 5 online tools that will help your smart small business too. 

1. Harvest

Harvest is a cloud-based time tracking app can be accessed from anywhere, on any device ― so you can always maintain a record of where your labour resources are being utilised.

This small business management tool simplifies those administrative activities that take up so much of your day. That said, it’s adaptable to businesses regardless of their size; Harvest is not only for smart small businesses around the world, it’s currently used by big brands such as Johnson & Johnson, Channel 7, SquareSpace, Amnesty International and Stanford University.

The app allows you to manage staff with a few simple clicks or taps of the touchscreen. It also automates common reminders to staff, such as notifying them when timesheets are due. With the data gathered through the app, users can generate reports to analyse how time is being spent (and identify areas of strength or weakness), and quickly pull logged hours into invoices.

2. PlanGrid

Available for Android and iOS mobile devices, as well as computer desktop, PlanGrid offers a free platform for storing, viewing and sharing blueprints. Because the cloud-based app is automatically synced between devices, version control is ensured — eliminating any risk of working off of previous plans. Users can access documents on or offline, and all data is encrypted to address any security issues that may apply to the project.

3. Joist

One of the best online tools available for contractors today, Joist was specifically designed for small businesses operating in the building and construction industry. It’s a free app that can be accessed via mobile device, even when on the run — meaning paperwork can be completed onsite rather than travelling to and from the office, so you save on time and are able to avoid paperwork bottlenecks when you get back to the desk.

Joist enables contractors to provide clients with instant formal quotes, which acts to encourage customers to hire your services on the spot before bothering to look around for other providers. It also creates an automatic record of all your clients and quotes, so that you can more easily keep track of invoices and payments, or even export the data to your accounting software when tax time rolls around. 

4. Construction Master Pro (also available on Android)

The digital version of this real life technical calculator, includes all the same core functionality as the physical Construction Master Pro, without you having to carry around another chunky device. Plus, the app comes with a built in user manual and Help setting in case you get lost.

Specifically created for Architects, Builders, Contractors, Designers, Draftspersons, Engineers and Carpenters and Tradesmen who work off-site, this app eliminates guesswork or risk of error when calculating how much construction material will be needed - instead, you can work out the exact figures.

5. Tradify

Similar to Joist, this small business management app takes care of your invoicing, quoting and scheduling — and if you’re a MYOB user, you can integrate it into your accounting platform. Tradify’s point of difference is that, apart from managing the financial side of your business activities, it enables you to track jobs, schedule staff and manage workflow. For instance, you’re able to see the location of your team and the progress of jobs as they happen, which means staff are more likely to arrive on time every time, and your clients won’t be left waiting for their tradie to arrive. With over 70 years of experience in the building and construction industry, Lathams has built a reputation for industry best practice and a loyal customer base. Through this experience and the lessons it’s taught us over the decades, our knowledgeable staff have come to build a wealth of advice for small businesses, tradies and contractors. If you’d like to receive more tips on small business management in the building and construction sector or wish to know more about how we can help you with your next project, contact a member of our friendly team.

Latham Asbra Safety Stair and Flooring Products Catalogue


To find out more about Latham products, please visit www.latham-australia.com. To talk to a Latham product expert, call 1300 LATHAM (528 426) or email sales@latham-australia.com. 

Latham Australia

Latham Australia is a 3rd generation family owned & operated company specialising in manufacturing the highest quality architectural stair, floor and wall products right here in Australia.

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