Automation Readiness Checklist
25-Point Assessment for Home Service Businesses
Are your processes ready to automate? Complete this assessment to identify your automation opportunities and get personalized recommendations for HVAC, plumbing, and electrical service operations.
Your Readiness Score
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π Process Documentation
Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs) exist
You have documented workflows for common tasks like service calls, installations, and maintenance visits.
Call handling process is documented
Clear steps for intake, qualification, scheduling, and follow-up are written down and followed consistently.
Repeat tasks happen at least weekly
You have recurring processes (invoicing, follow-ups, reporting) that are good automation candidates.
πΎ Data Management
Customer data is centralized
All customer information lives in one system (CRM, FSM software) not scattered across spreadsheets.
Job history is tracked digitally
Past service calls, equipment details, and notes are recorded and easily accessible.
Data quality is maintained
Records are accurate, complete, and regularly updated (not full of duplicates or missing info).
π§ Technology Infrastructure
Field service management (FSM) software in use
Using ServiceTitan, Housecall Pro, Jobber, or similar platform for scheduling and dispatch.
Software has API access
Your tools offer API integrations or webhooks to connect with other systems.
Cloud-based systems are preferred
Most critical tools are cloud-based, not locked to a single computer or on-premise server.
π₯ Team & Operations
Team is open to new technology
Techs and staff are willing to adopt new tools and processes (not resistant to change).
Someone owns tech implementation
A specific person is responsible for evaluating, implementing, and maintaining new systems.
Manual tasks are time-consuming
You're spending hours on data entry, scheduling, follow-ups, or reporting that could be automated.
π¬ Customer Communication
Appointment reminders are sent
Customers receive confirmation and reminder messages before scheduled service visits.
Follow-up process exists
Post-job follow-ups, review requests, or maintenance reminders are part of your workflow.
Multiple communication channels available
Customers can reach you via phone, text, email, or web forms.
π Scheduling & Dispatch
Online booking is available
Customers can schedule appointments through your website or a booking link.
Route optimization is needed
You're juggling multiple techs across service areas and route planning takes significant time.
Techs use mobile devices in the field
Technicians have smartphones or tablets to access job details and update status in real-time.
π° Invoicing & Payments
Digital invoicing is used
Invoices are created and sent electronically, not handwritten or paper-based.
Online payment processing enabled
Customers can pay via credit card, ACH, or digital wallet without writing checks.
Accounts receivable tracking exists
You have a system to track unpaid invoices and send payment reminders.
π― Lead Management
Lead source is tracked
You know where each customer came from (Google, referral, Yelp, direct call, etc.).
Quotes/estimates are systematized
Estimate creation and follow-up has a consistent process with templates or pricing books.
π Reporting & Analytics
Key metrics are tracked
You monitor revenue, job completion rate, customer acquisition cost, or other KPIs regularly.
Reporting is time-intensive
Creating weekly/monthly reports requires manual data collection and takes significant time.