How a Solar Installer Improved Project Management With OpenSolar
Discover how 4 Way Electrical Ltd streamlined operations, cut down on admin time, and improved project visibility by adopting OpenSolar’s upgraded project management tools in this case study.
Before the upgrade: Time-consuming admin and limited functionality
Before OpenSolar rolled out its latest project management enhancements, the team at 4 Way Electrical faced daily operational inefficiencies. Sales Director Jack Major, recalls how disjointed the system felt:
“Prior to the management update I was double or even triple handling data for clients, which was time-consuming and frustrating. The software was clunky, and we couldn’t perform basic tasks like uploading multiple files in bulk. That was a huge frustration.”
The existing workflow tools were difficult to access and offered limited support for managing day-to-day progress.
“It felt like an afterthought. You had to go round the houses to find it, and even then, it didn’t help us manage project progress effectively,” Jack explains.
Jack’s standout improvements: Bulk uploads, document creation and better visibility
With the release of OpenSolar’s upgraded project and document management functionality, Jack’s experience changed dramatically:
“With the update, we can now upload multiple files and installation photos at once. Creating the Owner’s Manual is easier than ever. Bringing the Manage Page and workflow feature front and centre on the project landing page was a massive improvement.”
These updates have made monitoring project progress more intuitive and efficient. Actions and tasks are now easier to manage without needing to jump between screens.
While Jack still sees opportunities to enhance functionality—like adding action-based triggers or push notifications (coming soon)—he’s quick to note that OpenSolar is highly receptive to feedback.
“One of the most encouraging things is how open OpenSolar is to user input. I’ve been able to speak directly with the developer, and it’s clear that the team genuinely listens and prioritises the needs of installers like us.”
The practical impact on day-to-day work
Since implementing the new features, the difference has been substantial.
“The timeframe for uploading and producing paperwork has dramatically decreased. Once I got to grips with the UI changes, the process became much more efficient,” Jack notes.
Centralising project data and documentation has removed the need for repetitive data handling and improved team visibility across the board.
“Not having to handle the same data multiple times is a major improvement. The end goal is a fully centralised hub for all project data—and we’re well on the way there with these updates.”
Why 4 Way Electrical is happy to recommend OpenSolar
Jack confidently recommends OpenSolar’s project management tools to others in the industry—not just because they’re free, but because they’re built with the installer’s workflow in mind.
“We certainly would advise others to use OpenSolar—not just because it’s free, but because it’s becoming everything we need in terms of design, project management, and customer communication.”
What sets OpenSolar apart, he says, is its willingness to grow through feedback.
“The project management is 100 times better than it was. With ongoing communication and a responsive development team, it’s exciting to see a platform that continues to evolve around what real users actually need.”
About 4 Way Electrical Ltd
Based in King’s Lynn and serving East Anglia, 4 Way Electrical Ltd is part of the 4 Way Group—a trusted provider of tailored, energy-efficient solutions across solar PV, battery storage, air source heating, EV charging, and electrical systems. With over 75 years of combined experience and a fully accredited team, 4 Way Electrical is known for its commitment to cutting-edge technology, reliable service, and environmentally conscious installations for both domestic and commercial clients.
