Running a Janitorial Business with Software
Insights from Olga from her time owning Nature Maids, a small cleaning company.
At the end of 2007, I needed a new challenge. It was also a time when seeds of environmental awareness started to germinate in Dallas, TX. I had always longed for everything to be as natural as possible in my home and wardrobe, so the idea of doing something useful like eco-friendly housekeeping aligned perfectly with my personal goals.
We decided to start a janitorial business, Nature Maids, despite having no prior experience. Our confidence came from our work in custom software development, where learning our clients’ processes is always part of the job. This experience would prove invaluable in running a janitorial business with software.
Software was where I was most comfortable, so learning the cleaning business was challenging to say the least!
Pictured: Olga Douglas, from her time owning Nature Maids, a cleaning company based out of Dallas, TX.
Starting a Cleaning Business: My Journey as a Janitorial Business Owner
The goal of a cleaning and janitorial business is simple: keep spaces clean. But to achieve that vision consistently, we needed a system to manage staffing, scheduling, quality control, and client satisfaction. We built a straightforward marketing website with a Customer Cleaning Request Form and an e-commerce shop for gift certificates and cleaning supplies.
Behind the scenes, we developed our first version of cleaning business management software—a robust scheduling calendar for both recurring and occasional appointments.
Our first version of janitorial business software
Key features included:
- Drag-and-drop scheduling to assign shifts efficiently
- Tracking service history to clean spaces efficiently and address outstanding issues
- Customizable checklists to ensure every task was completed
- A client portal where customers could submit special requests
We’ve come a long way since then.
Key Features of Cleaning Business Management Software
New Modernized Features:
- Match the right employee to the right job based on availability, location, and skillset
- Send real-time notifications to workers via mobile to reduce miscommunication
- Use GPS check-ins to verify attendance and punctuality
- Track inventory so supplies are always available
- Record all work details. When the job was completed, by whom, and where
- Collect supporting photos or signatures if needed
How Janitorial Business Software Streamlines Scheduling and Operations
Nature Maids also participated in many expos across the DFW metroplex, including Dallas, Plano, Coppell, and Garland. I gave a seminar on organic cleaning at the Live Green in Plano Expo. These events highlighted ways to reduce environmental impact by adopting a greener lifestyle and eco-friendly choices. Similarly, a well-executed commercial cleaning software solution can help reduce environmental impact by minimizing unnecessary trips and optimizing routes.
Nature Maids chapter closed with lasting impact
After we had been in business a few years, a small-business owner retired and entrusted us with her client book. To honor that gesture, we closed our doors in 2011 and passed the client book to the next janitorial business owner. Our maids found new opportunities, went on maternity leave, and embarked on new ventures—but remained friends thanks to the company culture and empowerment they experienced while working at our small janitorial firm.
How janitorial business owners can thrive with software
Through my experience running a janitorial business with software, I learned that combining personal attention with robust management tools is key to success. For other cleaning business owners, investing in software for cleaning business operations can streamline scheduling, improve client satisfaction, and create a thriving team culture.
Empowering Your Business with Technology
Key Software Features for Janitorial Success
Real-Time Scheduling
Optimize your workforce management with dynamic scheduling that adapts to real-time changes, ensuring efficient service delivery.
Inventory Management
Keep track of supplies and equipment effortlessly with automated inventory management, reducing waste and cutting costs.
