Spread the love

With an increase in domestic travel due to border restrictions, accompanied by the rise in the functionality of devices and flexible working, many Aussies are embracing the digital nomad lifestyle whilst travelling to new cities or exploring the outback. One tradie nomad duo, Sarah Bradford and Myles Bradley started their company, Outback Tradies, from their caravan and ute in Noosa, almost a year ago. The couple’s venture was eased by its reliable job management software, Fergus, and an online community of over 10,000 TradieWives.

After Fergus software helped them dramatically reduce their admin time by 66%, they decided to streamline their previous business, which they then sold. After starting the new venture, Outback Tradies, they continued to use Fergus, and pursued their dreams of travelling Australia, swapping hours of overtime in the office for more hours in nature together.

Sarah Bradford, co-founder, Outback Tradies said that it was a combination of the growing use of technology in the business and remote working due to COVID-19 that were large drivers in getting the business on the road: “Nowadays, the effective use of technology is critical in the success of small businesses. Technology is also shaping a new small business environment, one which allows for more flexibility in the workplace. COVID-19 notoriously expedited this transition as it abruptly imposed remote work upon Australians.

“It was amidst this shift that we were inspired to launch our venture, Outback Tradies, a mobile refrigeration and air conditioning business through which we provide much-needed services to rural and remote communities in Outback Australia. In our endeavour, we embrace digital tools that enable us to live and work full time on the road. Most notably, Fergus, which is our reliable job management software. It captures everything about a job for us by absorbing customer details, drafting quotes, ordering materials, scheduling works, and sending invoices. Fergus dispenses an impressive platform, one which we use every day to provide the most efficient and satisfactory services to our clients.

Sarah also finds great camaraderie and business advice from TradieWives online community: “Online communities are another way that technology has empowered small business owners. Outback Tradies foster a Facebook community of Mobile Tradies, which facilitates the opportunity for mobile tradies to meet and collaborate with one another on the road. Another prominent Facebook community is TradieWives, which with over 10,000 members is a very strong group of professional women. In being part of online communities, all of your relationships and exchanges are digital, yet it is remarkable the sense of camaraderie felt without ever meeting face-to-face.”

As the whole world looks to continue to navigate the new world we live in, mobile workers and digital nomads are a growing group of travellers who are making the most out of remote work and limited travel opportunities. For tradies who are looking to improve their business and follow in the footsteps of Outback Tradies, visit www.fergus.com for more information.