What a site diary should actually do for subcontractors
At its core, your site diary app should:
- Clearly record daily activities: noting who was on-site, what tasks were completed, and documenting any incidents.
- Create indisputable proof to support progress claims, variations, or any project changes.
- Allow your office team to see project status updates instantly, reducing confusion and guesswork.
- Significantly reduce manual paperwork and administrative hours.
For Directors, this means protecting your profits, not just your paperwork. For Operations Managers and Admin teams, it translates into streamlined workflows, fewer headaches, and keeping projects running smoothly.
Features to look for in a site diary app
1. Works on mobile, fast on site
2. Captures photos and attachments
3. Syncs with the office in real time
4. Includes forms and custom fields
5. Easy to search and report
The app should provide easy reporting and export capabilities, essential during audits, claim submissions, or resolving issues months down the line.
Reminder: Many apps only cover timesheets or safety logs—you need a comprehensive site diary specifically designed for construction subcontractors.
Why Neo’s site diary app works for subcontractors
Neo’s Site Diary, built into the Field App, was specifically designed with trades on commercial projects in mind:
- Supervisors can log daily activities within minutes, adding photos, notes, and critical details effortlessly.
- It instantly syncs with Neo’s Admin Console, keeping office staff continually updated and informed.
- You can add custom forms for toolbox talks, variations, delays, and detailed site instructions.
- All records are easily searchable and exportable – perfect for compliance checks and timely claim submissions.
BSECC’s experience highlights these benefits clearly. Their team reduced admin time by half, cutting down paperwork chasing and boosting visibility and site performance by using Neo’s digital records.
Smart questions to ask before you choose a site diary app
Before committing to a new site diary solution, ask yourself:
- Will supervisors actually use the app on-site?
- Can office teams easily access and effectively utilise the information?
- Does the app actively help with payment claims, or is it merely record-keeping?
- Is it scalable enough to handle multiple projects as your business grows?
Pro Tip: Always test the app directly with site teams – not just your admin staff – to ensure it’s practical for everyday use.
The right diary app = less risk, more control
A reliable site diary app doesn’t just streamline admin; it actively protects your profitability and enhances team coordination. If you’re still wrestling with paper diaries, scattered Word docs, or WhatsApp updates, you’re exposing your business to unnecessary risks and administrative chaos.
Neo’s Site Diary App is purpose-built for subcontractors, providing clarity, efficiency, and peace of mind. Choose a tool that saves time, reduces risk, and accelerates payments—choose Neo.


