As a local authority, you’re under pressure to perform on a tight budget – maximising the lifespan of your technology. But how do you know when it’s time to upgrade out-of-date software, because it’s holding you back?
For waste management teams, keep an eye out for these 3 signs that your current system isn’t up to scratch. The time to move forward could come sooner than you realise.
1. You spend all your time on paperwork
Admin is a necessary part of running a department, but it shouldn’t be your main focus. If back office tasks dominate the day and you’re constantly running behind, it’s a sign your processes are underperforming.
Investing in new waste management technology will stop your team’s workload comprising of creating spreadsheets and managing paperwork. This will help them focus on more valuable tasks and get greater job satisfaction.
2. You can’t communicate easily with collection crews
Even with a well-run office, your waste collection facility is only as strong as your crews out in the field. How easy is it to get updates from them and issue ad-hoc instructions?
The longer it takes to communicate, the slower your services will run. Upgrading technology will allow you to invest in software with front-line features – such as mobile in-cab updates to give collection crews instant feedback.
3. Your residents aren’t satisfied
As a waste management team, you aren’t just accountable to each other; you need to meet community standards as well. Local residents can quickly grow frustrated if their rubbish isn’t being reliably collected, or their comments and complaints aren’t being dealt with effectively.
Two-way feedback is critical to building strong neighbourhood relationships. Your waste management system can support this by integrating with online resident portals and mobile apps, where households can check the latest collection information and log requests.
4. Upgrade when you can, not when you have to
It’s easy to think your current waste management process is ‘good enough’ to do the job. But if you look closer, is it holding back your team’s performance? Sub-par systems can lead to frustrated employees, disconnected collection crews and disgruntled residents.
Upgrading your waste management software before you hit a critical bump in the road will allow you to choose the right software for your needs – without being forced to make a hasty decision.
Whitespace is already helping 100+ local authorities improve the way they manage municipal waste online. To find out more, get in touch: info@whitespacews.com.
Whitespace Waste Management Software
Opinions expressed in this blog belong to the blogger and not necessarily to LARAC
