This month we attended the second annual Lawn & Landscape Technology Conference. It was a well-organized event with many great workshops worthy of our time. Here are the themes and trends that stood out.
Integrated Solutions
In one of the first sessions, landscape contractors and software developers discussed how it currently takes various programs or apps to manage landscaping business needs. It became evident that integrating systems is going to save time and make business easier. Either we integrate systems, or we can create new programs that incorporate required functionality.
This session was exciting because the discussion fits exactly with Wolf Creek’s strategies of offering automation and integration solutions to remove as much busy work as possible. Progressive contractors are getting on track with technology, and the rewards will follow those who provide it. For example, Wolf Creek has offered vendor-managed inventory with our WolfDen program, online ordering and account management with eCommerce, and QuickBooks integration. We will continue to push for integrated solutions for our contractors.
Gen-X and Millennials Drive Technology Adoption
We noticed fewer grey hairs among attendees, and it was predominantly a GenX-Millennial crowd. They understand and want better technology, and as a result, the Green Industry is conforming as suppliers and entrepreneurs continue to develop solutions. Â
An Electric World
The Green Industry is now an electric world; battery-powered equipment has crossed the line from a curious innovation to real-world use. Or, in other words, electric equipment has passed the early adopters’ gap and has become mainstream. But, again, pioneers are paving the way and using their electric fleets as a marketing tool to differentiate themselves and claim a better ROI with such equipment.
Landscape Contractors are Becoming Marketers
Many online systems and technology solutions have made their way into the Green Industry.
The use of customer portals, automated systems for bidding and quoting, automatic billing, CRM, and KPI reporting functions are now commonplace. At the conference, contractors easily discussed social media marketing and websites, whereas few were active online two years ago.
Green Industry Labor Efficiency
Our current market is booming, and labor efficiency is crucial when business is brisk, and labor availability is low. Intelligent contractors are prepared contractors, and they build their market mindshare in preparation for when business slows down. As we discussed a year ago in Millennial Landscapers, for contractors to attract the next generation of landscapers, they are adapting technology to obtain and maintain their advantage.
Technology is Here to Stay
Over the past ten years, we have written many articles about the power of marketing, and it was on full display at this conference. So, if you haven’t already, it’s time to get on board with the latest technology that will make your life easier and increase your bottom line. Read more technology articles here.
