Using AI to Automate Field Reporting Instead of Using a CRM

We will begin with our Weekly Concepts next week, but I came across this interesting idea this week on Twitter.

I spend a lot of time meeting with clients in the blue collar/trade industries and one of the common trends I hear is that their field guys and sales reps rarely send in reports.

For example, we are working with a client at the moment to implement a new CRM company wide. Largely to better track leads in their pipeline. This client has tried everything from Google Sheets, text threads, simple CRMs, all of which are great if used… but they are rarely used.

Well, I was on Twitter (or X) this week and came across a product that someone is currently building called Road Recap.

Let’s break it down.

We can all agree that CRMs are great when used. But, it’s tough to get everyone on board with using a new system or technology. Which got Jon thinking… what is something that everyone at his company is already using?

A phone! Everyone, literally everyone, uses a phone these days. It doesn’t even have to be a smart phone with apps to use this product.

All you need in order to use Road Recap is a phone…

So how does it work?

Simply call a dedicated phone number and reply via voice to 10 premade questions.

Then, using AI, their answers are transcribed and turned into an easy to read report that is sent out via slack or email. If you are using a CRM, then pass it along to store in the appropriate account.

Here’s how the report looks:

It really is that simple.

No logins. No apps. No having to learn a new platform. Just dial and talk.

One possible frustration with Road Recap

Fatigue. Sales reps and field managers are on the phone all day as it is. I see there being fatigue issues for sales reps who are talking to multiple leads every day. They dial, answer 10 questions about the account, dial again, answer 10 questions, etc… This will become old and annoying if you’re having to do this 10+ times a day.

What do you think? Could it work?

If you want to learn more about Road Recap or sign up for their beta, visit https://roadrecap.com/. Or follow Jon on Twitter at https://twitter.com/MatznerJon.