Smart building technology needs smart operations behind it
Building automation and controls businesses managing complex system integrations, long project cycles and recurring maintenance need a platform that keeps pace with the technology they install.
Project and contract management for building automation businesses
Building automation is one of the fastest-growing segments in the building services market. Systems integrating lighting control, HVAC, access and security create complex project environments that demand rigorous management.
Zigaflow gives building automation businesses the project management, procurement and contract tools to grow without growing their overhead.
- Most UK building automation firms employ 10-50 engineers, estimators, and project managers across multiple live sites.
- Projects typically range from £15,000 to £500,000, covering BMS installation, HVAC controls, and smart lighting integration.
- Firms juggle multiple subcontractors, equipment suppliers, and M&E consultants simultaneously across concurrent projects.
- Slow quote turnaround is a major lost-business issue, as main contractors award packages within tight tender windows.
- Disconnected systems for quoting, job tracking, and invoicing cause margin erosion through unbilled variations and delays.
Up and running in four simple steps
Tender & Enquiry Capture
Enquiries arrive via main contractor tender portals, M&E consultant referrals, or direct client contact for retrofit and new-build BMS projects. Each enquiry is logged with site address, scope of controls work, tender deadline, and relevant drawings or specifications.
Controls Quote Preparation
Estimators build detailed proposals covering BMS hardware, field devices, cabling, commissioning labour, and any third-party integration costs such as DALI lighting or HVAC plant connections. Quotes are sent as branded documents with itemised line costs, exclusions, and programme assumptions clearly stated.
Project & Site Delivery
Awarded projects are broken into installation phases, with engineers, plant deliveries, and subcontractor visits scheduled against the main contractor programme. Variation orders, access delays, and equipment substitutions are tracked against the original contract value to protect margin.
Invoicing & Payment Sync
Invoices are raised against project milestones or applications for payment, aligned to the agreed valuation schedule with the main contractor or end client. Payments are reconciled and job costs synced to accounting software to close out project profitability.
Want to map out the exact workflow for your business?
Build your workflow free →The problems we solve
Built specifically for your industry - Zigaflow tackles the operational headaches that generic software ignores.
Systems integration proposals are complex and slow to produce
Building automation proposals combine hardware, software, commissioning and often ongoing managed service. Pulling these together into a coherent, priced proposal takes significant time.
Zigaflow quote templates for integrated systems proposals let your team build comprehensive, professional documents quickly from standard components.
Works with your existing tools
Guides written
for your sector
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Explore →Ready to grow your Building Automation & Smart Controls business?
Join hundreds of businesses already using Zigaflow to streamline their operations.