The client
MasTec Energy Services (MES) is one of several rapidly growing operating units within MasTec Power Delivery, a segment of the multinational infrastructure construction corporation MasTec, Inc.
The challenge
After implementing a new ERP system, MES relied on manual tracking, Microsoft Excel data extracts, and field crew intuition to manage large volumes of operational and financial data. The process wasn’t scalable, reliable, or consistent, making it difficult to keep pace with the demands of a growing business. Their goal was clear: enable faster, more informed decision-making using data formats suitable for teamwide distribution.
The solution
MES engaged our business analytics team to help identify the right analytics solution and enhance their reporting capabilities. Working closely together, we selected and implemented Qlik as their analytics platform.
According to Finance Systems & Solutions Manager Dan Hunt, our business analytics team added significant value to this process. “During implementation, if we wanted a new type of report, the Plante Moran team quickly came in, asked us questions about what we wanted, and built something within Qlik. They also helped our internal developer set up systems, laying the groundwork to expand and customize our apps and sheets in the Qlik environment.”
This solution — combined with a collaborative design approach — enabled MES to:
- Establish a centralized data repository integrating information from multiple ERP modules and other data sources.
- Accelerate reporting through automated processes that reduce manual effort and delays.
- Improve data accessibility for users across the organization — from the CFO and financial planning and analysis (FP&A) team to their crews in the field, some of whom didn’t previously have access to the ERP directly.
- Expand visibility into ERP-reported data (previously constrained to individual ERP modules) with drilldowns from top-line general ledger items to related submodules and individual work orders.
- Transfer knowledge and empower internal teams to build out additional subject areas, including safety, accounts payable, accounts receivable, and job cost.
The benefits
After implementing Qlik, MES has the clarity it needs to better control its operations, resulting in:
- Faster billing and improved cash flow. Qlik has enabled improved tracking of billable units and reduced days sales outstanding (DSO).
- Enhanced safety oversight. With more data flowing into safety dashboards, managers can monitor and respond to trends more effectively.
- A broader cultural shift. The organization has embraced a more data-driven, intentional mindset to strengthen decision-making.
Qlik’s dashboards also provide real-time visibility into key performance metrics, including:
- Revenue per man-hour tracked by crew and job, enabling managers to identify underperforming teams and investigate root causes.
- Crew productivity reports focused on labor time without additional costs, helping to isolate true efficiency.
- Revenue-by-day dashboards that visualize proximity to daily targets.
- Profitability reports which allow managers to compare revenue and cost per man-hour, customized to the cost structures of different operation centers.
MES is using this increased visibility to identify and turn around challenging contracts in a timely manner. One $150 million contract, which had been operating at a 10% loss, was turned around to a 10% profit.
“Qlik doesn’t just help us see the numbers — it helps us understand the story behind them,” says Chris Johnson, division vice president of the Carolinas. “Our business is more dynamic, more responsive, and better equipped to adapt to evolving client needs. With Qlik, getting the answers I’m looking for is quick, easy, and part of my daily routine.”
From manual processes to meaningful insights — MES made the leap. If you're ready to do the same, our business analytics team is here to support you. Contact us to learn more.
