The Blueprint blog
Customer Story
/Restoration
In the world of restoration, few names stand out like BELFOR. With decades of experience in handling fire, water, and storm damage, they’ve built a reputation for reliability and efficiency. I recently had the pleasure of chatting with Florian from BELFOR Germany to get a deeper understanding of their operations, the challenges they face, and how they use technology to stay ahead in this demanding field.
BELFOR is a major player in disaster recovery and property restoration. They take on just about everything, from water damage to fire cleanup, making sure to get things back to the way they were before disaster hit. Their goal is simple: help homeowners recover quickly and get their lives back on track. It’s that commitment to high standards and client satisfaction that has driven BELFOR’s growth and success worldwide.
Restoration isn’t without its pain points. Florian highlighted the complexity of data capture and documentation in restoration projects. This involves accurately assessing the damage, documenting every detail, and storing this information in an organized manner for easy access. Traditional methods of data collection, which often rely on manual entry and paperwork, are not only time-consuming but also prone to errors, leading to delays and potential miscommunication among project teams.
To overcome these challenges, BELFOR has turned to technology, specifically using magicplan, a tool they’ve integrated into their workflow since 2012. magicplan allows them to quickly capture floor plans, take photos, and create detailed reports—all in one app. According to Florian, the speed and accuracy that magicplan offers are unmatched, making it an indispensable tool for their project managers.
One of the standout features for BELFOR is the seamless integration of magicplan with their internal systems. When a project manager closes a project in magicplan, all data automatically uploads to BELFOR’s in-house storage system. This automation reduces the risk of lost information and ensures that all project details are accessible to the team in real time. The ease of transferring data from a mobile device directly to their project archives streamlines their workflow and enhances efficiency.
Implementing new technology always comes with a learning curve, and BELFOR’s approach to onboarding new team members with magicplan reflects their commitment to thorough training. New project managers undergo a six-month onboarding process, during which they receive both hands-on training and in-house sessions on using magicplan. Florian emphasized the importance of “learning by doing,” which allows new hires to gain confidence and proficiency in using the tool under the guidance of experienced colleagues.
For BELFOR, precision is key, and they prefer using laser measurement tools synced with tablets for room measurements. Florian noted that while magicplan offers multiple options for capturing room dimensions, laser measurements provide the most accurate results, crucial for the detailed planning required in restoration work.
As BELFOR continues to grow and adapt, their use of technology like magicplan is a testament to their forward-thinking approach. By focusing on solid training and using reliable technology, they’re able to handle the challenges of restoration head-on. For BELFOR, it’s all about getting the job done right, so folks can move on from the damage and get back to normal.
For me, their story serves as a reminder that in restoration, as in many industries, the right tools can make all the difference. And for BELFOR, those tools are helping them restore more than just properties—they’re helping restore peace of mind.
Request a free demo and learn how magicplan can support your business.
Silvia Corvi
Customer Success Specialist