The landscaping industry is becoming even more competitive nowadays. You want every tool in your arsenal to stay on top. One way to remain ahead is by using the latest landscape technology available. From digital marketing tools to smart mowers, there are plenty of cutting-edge innovations in the industry to help make operations more efficient. Plus, some can help you reach more people and achieve their satisfaction. 

In this article, MowTown Blades talks about the latest in landscape technology. Use this guide to start embracing the available solutions.

Digital Marketing Tools

By now, you may have realized that online presence is key to gaining new customers. The internet is where people search for a business. They use Google Search, social media platforms, and other websites. For this reason, it’s important to include digital marketing in your operations.

Digital marketing tools increase visibility, engagement, and conversions in the online space. With landscape technology, you can heighten your reach. More people will get an idea about your business and eventually ask for your landscaping services. In addition, these digital tools help paint you as a trusted authority in the industry.

Here are some of the digital marketing processes and solutions you can try.

1. Search Engine Optimization or SEO

SEO is the process of making your website or social media pages optimized for search. When you show up on results pages, you increase your visibility. Heightened visibility means higher engagements. SEO requires you to incorporate keywords in your content. In some cases, you may also need to fix or improve your website architecture. Semrush and SEOSurfer are some of the software you can use to improve your SEO rankings.

2. Email Marketing

Email marketing is a standard practice in digital marketing. In this case, you regularly send out emails to your subscribers to keep them engaged with your company. Your emails and newsletters can include

  • New services or products
  • Updates on the landscaping industry
  • Case studies that showcase your company’s problem-solving skills

3. Social Media Marketing

Social media platforms provide lots of tools to enhance your digital marketing efforts. These solutions include creating business pages where you can post updates and interact with clients. Some platforms also allow you to show paid ads to a specific demographic. Each one also has means for clients to contact you directly to ask about services or follow up with a project.

Innovations in Field Operations

Landscaping has been a steady industry for the longest time. Most businesses can provide top-notch services with even the most basic tools. However, there is a lot of new landscape technology available today that can elevate your field operations. Here are some of the emerging ones.

Drones for Site Surveys and Monitoring

With drones for aerial surveying, you get a holistic view of the site. These tools have HD cameras and GPS that provide valuable data for your projects. You can use the information for accurate mapping and identification of problem areas. Plus, drones help with monitoring work progress. You won’t need frequent physical site visits with these gadgets.

Smart Irrigation

Another popular addition to modern lawns is smart irrigation. Many landscaping businesses offer this service as part of their sustainability mandate. With smart irrigation systems, homeowners can control water use. The technology ensures that plants get the right amount of water at the right time. This benefit reduces water use, especially in places experiencing shortages or drought.

Smart Lawnmowers and Specialized Blades

Smart lawnmowers mow lawns autonomously. This benefit is ideal for homeowners, but landscape companies can also use this tech to increase productivity in field operations. In fact, these mowers, paired with the right blades, can be controlled using Wi-Fi to allow for remote use.

Mobile Apps for Communication, Scheduling, and Project Management

In the past, major landscaping projects used two-way radios for easier communication. Now, the ubiquitous smartphone has become the better alternative. There are plenty of apps companies can use to ensure clear communication during field operations. Plus, these programs have added functionalities that enhance productivity. For example, workers can find their schedules on the app. Project managers can use the apps to supervise projects and ensure timely operations.

Leveraging Customer Support Tech

Another often neglected aspect of landscaping operations is customer support. Thankfully, new landscape technology solutions are available to companies. These streamline customer interactions, making your company more responsive towards inquiries and concerns.

Customer Relationship Management (CRM) Software

CRM programs are the one-stop solution for your customer support needs. These types of software consolidate almost every aspect, such as the following:

  • Customer Information Management: A CRM serves as a centralized storage of customer contact details, preferences, and interaction history.
  • Appointment Scheduling: You can set up your CRM for automated scheduling and reminders to ensure timely service.
  • Communication Tools: Standard CRM programs have integrated email, SMS, and chat features for seamless customer communication. In fact, you can do email marketing using this program.
  • Sales and Service Tracking: A CRM helps you monitor the status of proposals, work orders, and service delivery.
  • Billing and Invoicing: With the software, it’s easier to manage invoicing processes. You can also automate reminders for payments.
  • Feedback Collection: Most CRMs have integrated tools for gathering and analyzing customer feedback.

AI Chatbots

Another emerging tool many modern companies use is AI chatbots. These website integrations use AI to communicate with customers. Even if you aren’t around, a customer will have someone who can respond to their questions. An AI chatbot can also help schedule appointments and respond in various languages.

VR and AR for Immersive Experiences

Virtual reality (VR) and augmented reality (AR) offer more immersive experiences for customers. You can use these technologies to let your clients see the rendered designs before you begin the project. These immersive experiences give customers a feel of how the final output would look like. That way, they can suggest changes that fit their preferences.

VR/AR also allows for virtual walkthroughs of landscapes. Your clients will be able to visualize the elements like hardscapes and plants. This gives them a fuller picture of the entire project and enhances their experience with your company.

Cybersecurity

As you handle more operations on digital platforms, you’re also exposed to new risks. Malware and viruses can wreak havoc on your operations. These malicious attacks can also steal your and your customer’s data. It’s important to integrate cybersecurity measures. You must protect your business and customers against these cybersecurity issues.

Multi-Factor Authorization

MFA software adds a level of protection to your database. This program requires users to verify their identities in multiple ways. That way, when one method is compromised, hackers will still have a hard time entering your systems. For example, MFA may require a user to log in not just with their passwords but with a code sent to their work mobile phones.

Encryption Tools

Hackers can intercept data in transit and steal information. You can prevent this by installing encryption software on your company’s apps and devices. These programs encrypt information — converting it into a format that’s unreadable. Only a decryption key can interpret this information into something comprehensible. Thanks to these types of software, you can prevent unauthorized access to confidential information, like your client’s banking information.

Firewalls and Antivirus Software

Some of the most basic cybersecurity programs are antivirus programs and firewalls. These programs monitor files, incoming traffic, and other external elements before entering your database or network. They can detect malware and block them before they can do any damage. 

Investing in the Latest Landscaping Tech: Final Thoughts

Integrating the latest innovations in landscape technology is how your business can stay one step ahead. We understand that many of these solutions require resources, but the initial investment will be worth it in the long run. Plus, you don’t have to integrate all these at once. Just choose the technologies that fit your business model or goals. That way, you can sustain the integration process while gradually reaping the benefits of improved efficiency, enhanced customer satisfaction, and a competitive edge in the market.

For more information about new landscaping technology and related topics, contact MowTown Blades today!

FAQs

How Do I Know Which New Tech Is Good for My Business?

It depends on your goals. For example, companies that want to move towards sustainable practices can prioritize smart irrigation tech. Businesses that want to gain new customers in another location can use SEO to geo-target this new service area.

Why Is Protecting Customer Data Important?

The most important purpose of customer data protection is to prevent fraud and identity theft. Hackers can steal the personal and financial information of your customers and use them in nefarious ways. When you have the means to protect customer data, you can increase customer trust and confidence. They know that you’re keeping personal information safe.