Increasing contractor engagement with an enhanced partner experience

Facing declining engagement, a leading building material manufacturer called on ITA Group to revitalize its existing contractor loyalty program through a reimagined partner experience.

collage of contractor loyalty program platform images

Frustrated with contractor engagement and the program provider’s lackluster service, the manufacturer was desperate for a loyalty program that generated participation and tier advancement among its contractor base. They looked to ITA Group’s loyalty program experts to identify key challenges and implement a solution designed to revitalize and elevate the program. 

Key challenges

Outdated technology created participation barrier

Awards experience left much to be desired

flexible contractor incentive program technology

Outdated technology created a participation barrier 

The program’s existing technology lacked the ability to meet contractors where they were: on the go, out in the field and in the midst of jobs. 

Besides lack of mobile-friendly functionality, the platform’s job-logging process—a key piece of how contractors earn—was lengthy, with unnecessary steps required to submit a job. The user experience also suffered from a lagging landing page making it hard to find resources like catalogs, directories and training platforms. And the password reset process required manual intervention that often locked contractors out of their account for days at a time. In short, the partner experience demanded enhancements related to usability, processing speed and page navigation. 

Manual processes were riddled throughout program administration, making it difficult to manage lead workflows, eligibility and tier movement. Reporting took on a life of its own to compile disparate data sources and get sell-through data down to regions and territory managers.

contractor participating in loyalty program viewing progress on mobile device

A flexible, mobile-friendly solution sets a new standard

Today, the new custom technology solution features a user-centric claims tool, enabling contractors to easily enter jobs and engage with the program. A clear snapshot of contractors’ program status and progress is easily accessible. The new platform also offers auto job logging, a direct data transfer from wholesalers and dealers with purchase data from enrolled contractors, giving the manufacturer even more visibility into sell-through data. 

Engagement hub creates a single point of entry 

Aggregating all the common tools, resources and program tracking into a single engagement portal created a better user experience for contractors. 

  • Single sign-on capability eliminates the need for multiple logins across various platforms. 
  • System integrations into existing internal portals like the manufacturer’s CRM, LMS, marketing portal, and product store make accessing program information and resources easy. 
  • Personalized dashboards tailored to role, participant status and permissions ensure everyone sees what they need, when they need it. 
  • Seamless toggling between platforms keeps the focus on action, empowering contractors with the latest information, resources and product offerings. 

Overall, the integrated approach fosters collaboration and boosts engagement, making the program a valuable resource for all involved. 

Increased engagement spurred by gamification, unlocked benefits and enablement 

A heavy focus on engagement spurs program participation and empowers contractors to maximize their relationship with the brand.

  1. Leads and corresponding status updates 
  2. Training sessions on selling installation services 
  3. Job-completed tally board 
  4. Progress-to-goal tracking 
  5. Product education 
  6. Badging and certificates 
dashboard showing gamification and engagement opportunities

Awards experience left much to be desired 

Not only were enrolled contractors not actively participating in the program, most contractors didn’t have a convincing reason to. 

A broader, more flexible award experience 

In addition to existing business-building award offerings (e.g. job-site tools, corporate-branded apparel and brand marketing support), an expanded award experience put even greater choice in contractors’ hands. Contractors earn points for activities and jobs completed, and points can be spent within a digital awards catalog featuring at-a-glance point accrual data and custom wish list creation. Drop-shipping from the location nearest to the participant ensures most awards arrive within 48 hours of ordering. 

Expanded award offering at a glance 

  • 10,000+ merchandise options 
  • Custom travel and event experiences 
  • Company store featuring corporate-branded items 
  • Job-site tools 
  • Credits for industry-specific digital tools 
  • Brand marketing support (integration with marketing and business solution portals, etc.) 
contractor engagment platform with award selection examples

Lacking service levels dampened the relationship 

When the brand’s previous loyalty program provider's pricing and service didn’t meet expectations, service levels were a priority in transitioning partners. ITA Group asked questions and conducted due diligence to understand how to best service the program and prioritized three key action steps. 

1

Added a support analyst position to assist with daily tasks and operations

2

Dedicated a resource to managing the program email inbox

3

Created a standard operating procedure for task management

Best-in-class loyalty program 

Today’s loyalty program and partner experience is intuitive and scalable, and provides contractors with the tools and support they need to succeed through a centralized engagement hub. With business-building resources, tools and rewards, the program is more than just a loyalty program—it helps contractors grow their businesses while fostering invaluable brand advocacy along the way. And continued investment in the partnership is opening the door to increased brand loyalty and advocacy strategies, with enhanced offerings around the corner. 

135% YOY increase in contractors enrolled*

The new approach continues to prove relevant and impactful, with enrollment on the rise. But that’s not all. The program also sees a 15% YOY increase in contractors with a completed and installed job. 

*Through July (annually). 

The people we work with make the difference, they care, and partner. We have fun and work towards a common goal. We are always looking to take the program to the next level and need a partner to help us dive into that more.

NATIONAL BRAND AMBASSADOR LEADER (CLIENT STAKEHOLDER)