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The Graphite Lab Blog
Actionable insights on automation, AI, and smart workflows for the trades


From Going by Your Gut to Data-Driven Decision-Making (Even for a Small Shop)
Anyone who told you that “you need data-driven decisions” has probably never tried to run dispatch while answering the phone at the same time.
Feb 184 min read


The $10,000 Question: What’s Wasting the Most Time in Your Skilled Trades Business?
Most trades businesses know where they’re losing money—parts, callbacks, slow payments, long jobs. But the bigger leak is time.
Feb 184 min read


How to Compete with PE-Backed Aggregators as an Independent
Independence is an unfair advantage. AI and automation can give you speed, trust, and execution without burning out your team.
Jan 224 min read


Payroll Made Easy: Automating Time Sheets and Paychecks
The week was already a grind. The schedule changed three times. Unlike everyone else in your business, your payroll staff dreads Friday.
Jan 224 min read


5 ServiceTitan Gaps We’ve Solved with Automation
ServiceTitan is a great tool for skilled trades businesses, but we've identified (and plugged) common gaps in workflows that frustrate companies just like yours.
Jan 224 min read


Stop Wasting Time on Vendor Bills: A 70% Productivity Boost
With a few targeted automations, our trades customers regularly see a 70% lift in vendor‑bill productivity (more bills per staff hour), plus fewer errors and fewer fire drills.
Aug 29, 20253 min read


How Dispatch Automation Saves CSRs 5 Hours a Week
Did you know? In most call centers, the time your team spends after each call—typing notes, updating records, and routing...
Aug 28, 20255 min read
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