Ask any builder what part of the homebuilding process tends to go sideways, and you’ll hear the same word over and over: selections.
From tile patterns and cabinet finishes to plumbing fixtures and hardware — design selections are where vision meets detail. It’s also where delays, miscommunication, and last-minute changes tend to pile up, fast.
If you’ve ever had a client second-guess their choice after materials are ordered (or worse, already installed), you know how painful it can be — for timelines, budgets, and your sanity.
But it doesn’t have to be this way.
Here’s how builders can streamline the selections process, reduce errors, and keep both their team and clients on the same page — without the usual headaches.
1. Centralize All Selections in One Place
The biggest pain point? Scattered information.
When selection details are buried in email threads, random PDFs, text messages, or Dropbox folders, it’s only a matter of time before something slips through the cracks.
A centralized platform (like Digs) gives your team and your clients one shared space to review, confirm, and track all design decisions. No more guessing which tile was approved or scrolling endlessly to find a faucet spec. Find out how House of Ponce saved time and prevented mistakes by using Digs to keep everyone on the same page here.
Bonus: Digs allows file attachments and uploads, as well as markup export for PDFs.
2. Make It Visual (Because Words Aren’t Enough)
Descriptions like “white subway tile” or “matte black pull handle” can mean a dozen different things. The best way to avoid miscommunication? Show, don’t tell.
Attach reference images, link product pages, or use a platform that allows you to upload and visually pin selections to plans. When homeowners can see what they chose — in context — they feel more confident and make decisions faster.
Builders using Digs, for example, can drop selections directly onto the floorplan and annotate in real time. No more "I didn't realize it would look like that."
3. Track Approvals in Real Time
Verbal approvals and vague email confirmations won’t cut it — especially when things get busy.
Use tools that track approvals with timestamps and clear status indicators. Whether it's “pending,” “approved,” or “needs revision,” the whole team should be able to see it at a glance.
This kind of visibility is a game-changer for builders managing multiple projects. You’ll know exactly where things stand — and your clients will appreciate the transparency.
4. Use Templates to Speed Things Up
If you’ve done more than one build, chances are you’ve got patterns: go-to tile combos, trusted paint palettes, preferred appliance packages. Why reinvent the wheel every time?
Create templates for typical selection packages to give clients a head start. This not only makes your life easier, it helps clients make faster decisions by giving them curated, proven options to choose from.
Digs just introduced schedule templates! Check it out here.
5. Leverage AI to Find What You Need (Fast)
When a client asks, “What finish did we pick for the powder bath faucet again?” — how long does it take you to find the answer?
With Digs’ AskDigs AI Assistant, you can type a question and get an instant answer, along with the exact document or plan it lives on. No more digging through emails or old folders. Just type, click, and done.
It’s like having a jobsite assistant who never forgets a detail.
6. Reduce Redos With Field-Ready Access
Even when selections are clearly documented, errors still happen in the field if crews don’t have easy access.
Make sure selections and specs are mobile-friendly and viewable on the jobsite. Digs allows your supers and trades to pull up approved selections right from their phone — whether they’re confirming tile layout or checking cabinet hardware alignment.
This visibility prevents mistakes, reduces rework, and builds trust with your team and your clients. See how Williams Contracting saved 40-50 hours by reducing mistakes with Digs here.
7. Document Every Decision (So You Don’t Have To Remember It Later)
The selections process is full of small but critical decisions — and it’s hard to remember who said what when you’re juggling 6–8 projects at once.
A good selections tool keeps a digital paper trail of every decision. That means fewer phone calls, fewer “wait, what did we decide?” moments, and a lot more clarity from kickoff to closeout.
Design selections will always be part art, part logistics — but they don’t have to be the most stressful part of your project.
With the right tools and systems, builders can turn selections into a smoother, faster, and more collaborative experience — one that keeps clients excited, not overwhelmed.
Less second-guessing. Fewer surprises. More confidence.
That’s the power of streamlining with Digs.
Digs is a collaboration software solution for home builders, vendors, and homeowners that provides more efficient file storage, collaboration, and homeowner handoff for home construction projects.
Unlock a happier home at Digs.com
