Breaking the tech barrier

By Jesse Sanchez. 

If even tech companies bring in experts to get it right, it just proves that smart support leads to better results. 

When it comes to adopting new software in the roofing industry, the biggest hurdle isn’t getting the tools themselves, but rather, it’s figuring out how to use them effectively. That’s the takeaway from a striking segment of this MetalTalk™ podcast featuring Dave Chapman of Estimating Edge. While much of the conversation explores evolving tech stacks and integrations, it’s Dave’s unflinching look at software implementation that stands out, especially when he shares that even his own tech company brought in outside help to implement its Customer Relationship Management (CRM) software. 

“When we brought in our CRM, we hired a third-party implementation specialist that could analyze the situation, knew the software, could analyze our company and create a plan and implement it so that we could utilize it to its full potential,” Dave says. It sets a strong example for contractors, showing that bringing in the right expertise is a smart move that leads to better outcomes. 

In the roofing industry, there's often a misplaced pressure to figure out every piece of technology on your own. But, as Dave points out, even the most advanced software is useless without proper onboarding. “You can have the best bank or the best software ever, but if it’s not intuitive, if it’s not easy to use, then you’re not going to get what you need out of it,” he shares. “It’s frustrating to have an amazing piece of software but not be able to utilize it to its full potential.” 

But Dave makes it clear: Implementation isn’t just a technical process; it’s a business strategy. Whether a contractor relies on in-house support, the vendor’s team or a third-party consultant, the focus should be on tailoring the system to the company’s workflow from day one. And the investment pays off. When technology works with people, not against them, companies can unlock automation, streamline communication and scale sometimes without even adding headcount. 

Read the transcript, Listen to the podcast or Watch the conversation for more insights into implementation strategies and overcoming resistance to change!