Whitestone Modernizes CMT Operations with eFieldData
February 27, 2025
Executive Summary
Whitestone Associates, Inc. struggled with outdated, paper-based systems that caused delays and inefficiencies. They modernized their operations with eFieldData, a cloud-based constructions materials testing (CMT) software with a mobile app for field data collection. The software streamlined workflows, reduced costs, and improved operational efficiency. Following successful rollouts across several branches, Whitestone is poised for further growth.
Business Challenge
Whitestone was trapped in the past, relying on paper-based systems with handwritten reports that admin staff had to manually transcribe. This process resulted in delays in reporting and billing, making it difficult to keep track of jobs and hindering the company's growth. The only digital system they had, an outdated geotechnology software, crashed frequently, making it inefficient.
Wendy L. Kerkhoff, Materials Testing Manager, brought in to turn around the situation, and Ryan R. Roy, P.E., the New England Regional Manager, recognized that continuing this way was unsustainable. Both had worked at larger companies and had seen firsthand how automation could transform operations. They knew Whitestone needed a modern LIMS (Laboratory Information Management System) to overcome the inefficiencies that were stalling their growth.
But finding the right software was a challenge. They evaluated software from several LIMS vendors but most of them did not cater specifically to the Construction Materials Testing (CMT) industry. Additionally, while some quotes appeared affordable at first glance, the total cost of ownership over a couple of years was high.
Solution
Through a referral from a subcontractor, Whitestone discovered eFieldData. From the first demo, they knew this was it. The software was tailored to their industry, meeting most of their unique requirements. They appreciated eFieldData’s responsive communication and direct access to technical support. They were not only willing to work with Whitestone to create custom forms specific to their needs, but they also offered a trial period and pricing that made sense, especially for a growing company like Whitestone trying to modernize without breaking the bank.
Whitestone began implementation with their New England branch led by Wendy with support from the eFieldData team. It was not easy - convincing engineers and admin staff to let go of their old ways was a challenge. However, eFieldData’s intuitive software design, along with strong support during the transition, helped—especially for younger employees who adapted quickly to the change. Following the successful rollout in New England, Whitestone expanded the program to their Florida and New York branches the following year.
Results
The results were game-changing. Reports that used to take forever were now going out fast, giving clients quicker results and leaving them impressed. Whitestone saved a ton of money by reducing administrative work, and everyone loved how easy it was to track jobs and manage tasks with eFieldData.
Whitestone particularly liked the workflow functionality that tracks reports from in-progress to completion, as well as the seamless integration between field and lab reports. Sure, there were some minor hiccups along the way - what implementation does not have them? Overall, the experience was smooth, and the payoff was significant. eFieldData has made their lives easier, their processes more efficient, and their clients happier.
"We initially implemented eFieldData at a local office to evaluate how the program could help our company on a larger scale. It was so successful that we have now rolled it out across all our offices. The eFieldData staff has been incredibly accommodating, quickly making requested revisions to reports as needed," said Ryan R. Roy, P.E., the New England Regional Manager. "This software has vastly improved our report turnaround time and allowed us to easily identify staff who are behind on their reports. Best of all, our clients love it!"
With New England, Florida and New York on board, Whitestone is now working on rolling out eFieldData in Pennsylvania and New Jersey. The geotechnical team is next, and the Whitestone team is pleased with their collaboration with eFieldData, recognizing the company’s role in improving operations and positioning Whitestone for sustained growth.
About Whitestone Associates, Inc.,
Whitestone Associates, Inc., a 100% employee-owned company, provides a full range of integrated environmental, geotechnical, construction phase, and building/facility evaluation engineering and consulting services to a diverse client base that includes international and national corporations, law firms, real estate developers, engineering and architecture firms, lending institutions, insurance underwriters, government agencies, municipalities, and private sector clients.
Whitestone is headquartered in Warren, NJ, has branch offices in Chalfont, PA, Southborough, MA, Rocky Hill, CT, Wall, NJ, Philadelphia, PA, Tampa, FL, Bedford, NH, West Palm Beach, FL, Rochester, NY and Buffalo, NY and maintains satellite operations in Seattle, WA, Charleston, SC, Miami, FL and Ridgewood, NJ.
About eFieldData
eFieldData, a subscription-based Software-as-a-Solution (SaaS) platform, developed by Vconnex Services Inc, is designed for geotechnical firms to automate the workflow process for construction materials testing and field inspections. eFieldData stands out as a powerful, affordable, and easy to use CMT Software to manage project workflow from scheduling to field data collection to lab data entry and reporting.