Ever wonder what a snow removal vendor does other than push snow and spread salt during a snow storm? True Northians are busy for many hours prior to a storm and many hours and sometimes days after a storm. Our actions can be divided into two main types: Production and Communication. Each type is broken down into three timeframes: pre-storm, during storm and post-storm. If you use a company other than True North, their actions may differ.
Production
Pre-storm
Our account managers spend the days and/or hours prior to the storm monitoring and analyzing the forecast. Talking with our private meteorologists and reading NOAA’s charts, we determine a game plan and activate the first round of service. Prioritizing properties and services based on special circumstances like extra holiday hours.
During Storm
As we all know, the weather does not always continue on the same path or with the same speed and intensity as was forecasted. Therefore, our team continues its analysis of weather conditions and forecasts and makes adjustments in operators, equipment and material, as necessary.
Post Storm
Even though the snow may have finished falling, we provide a final property quality check to double check that all services have been completed. Often, the sun will rise, melt the top layer of snow and cause a stream of water that refreezes once the sun goes down. Our account managers follow details as outlined by individual property service agreements and provide refreeze service that evening.
After all services have been completed, our crews clean up their equipment and put it away if no more snow is in the near forecast. True North takes inventory of materials and restocks as necessary. Finally, we analyze our operators, crew and equipment for any needed changes
Communication
Pre-storm
Pre-storm communication is as important to the system as the production aspect. Following the forecast analysis, we send a special Event Weather Update to our customers, which outlines both the forecast and the game plan. We also contact our district and area managers prior to the storm to make sure everyone is up, ready and knows the plan. This also gives us a chance to properly cover an area if an operator suddenly ends up unable to work that day.
During Storm
The Event Weather Update is sent out as soon as any change in forecast or game plan occurs. Operators, crews, and field managers provide visual field updates consistently. District and area managers provide feedback regarding service and weather as well.
Post Storm
Managers meet post-storm to discuss strengths, weakness and possibilities for improvement. Billing is organized and invoices are sent out in a timely matter. Customers receive an e-survey after every storm, and the results are shared with senior management.