
How ARP Solar Reinvented Its Operations and Future-Proofed Their Business
In the rapidly evolving solar landscape, ARP Solar has emerged as a beacon of adaptability and innovation. With over 15 years of experience, this Ohio-based company serves both residential and commercial markets. However, the journey hasn’t been without its hurdles. As growth loomed on the horizon, the operations team, led by COO John McNamara, recognized significant inefficiencies that could hinder their future success.
Understanding the Challenges
Prior to implementing streamlined solutions, ARP Solar’s operations were run on a patchwork of spreadsheets, emails, and manual processes—an approach that John described as "operating on passion and duct tape." This disconnection led to operational headaches and diminished customer satisfaction, as team members struggled with information retrieval and task management.
The Turning Point: Enter Scoop
To address these challenges, ARP Solar sought advice from the solar community and was directed toward a solution called Scoop. Through a captivating webinar series on operational management, John discovered that Scoop was tailored for empowering field workers while enhancing operational visibility.
Implementing Change with Care
ARP Solar’s transition to Scoop was neither rushed nor haphazard. Instead, they adopted a phased approach, gradually introducing features based on team feedback. “We realized that simpler is better,” stated McNamara. By allowing their team to acclimatize to the platform while iteratively refining it, they cultivated buy-in and reduced resistance to change.
The Transformative Results
The results have been striking. By consolidating all operations in one centralized hub, ARP Solar has improved project visibility and significantly reduced the number of frantic texts sent after hours—shifting from a culture of panic to one of empowerment. The introduction of LOOXY™, Scoop's analytics tool, has further enhanced their ability to forecast project timelines, enabling smarter decision-making.
Glimmers of Hope: A Healthy Team Culture
Perhaps the most significant change has been in the team's morale. McNamara noted that what once felt like a high-pressure environment is now shaped by collaboration and positivity. "Now, an off-hours text is more likely to be a birthday wish rather than a work crisis," he says, reflecting a culture that values efficiency and supports its members.
Looking Ahead
As ARP Solar continues to navigate the ever-changing solar industry, their innovative approach and commitment to improvement provide valuable lessons on operational resilience. With tools like Scoop at their disposal, they are well-equipped to face future challenges and seize opportunities, ensuring they stay ahead in a competitive market.
Understanding the dynamics of business transformation in the solar sector is crucial for companies aiming to thrive, and ARP Solar's story exemplifies how strategic adaptation can lead to enduring success.