Digital skills every heavy equipment should learn?

[Polo Ardobie]

Hey, with more construction equipmenf using GPS, telematics,and digital displays, it seems like technology is becoming just as important qs operating skills. Which digital skills do you think operators should learn to stay competitive and improve productivity? Are there any apps, software, or training resources that youve found especially helpful?

 

[Denny_HonDa]

I'd start with learning GPS grade control and basic telematics since they're becoming common on more jobsites. Being comfortable reading machine diagnostics and using digital work orders can also save a lot of downtime.

 

[Kent-o-Kent]

I agree. I'd also add getting familiar with equipment apps on your phone,
they make it much easier to track maintenance and troubleshoot issues in the field.

 

[Andrewcollins]

I'd also recommend learning how to read telematics reports instead of just checking fault codes. Understanding idle time, fuel usage, and maintenance alerts can really help improve productivity and reduce downtime.

 

[jonathan Morris]

Teach machines tech, not just muscle!

 

[Sawdust123]

@Andrewcollins That’s a good point, although I’d argue that understanding fault codes and basic diagnostics should come first. Telematics reports are definitely useful, but being able to quickly identify what’s causing an issue in the field can make a bigger difference when downtime is already happening. Do you think operators should be expected to understand both, or should telematics be more of a skill for supervisors and fleet managers?