Why GPS Machine Control Is Finally Making Sense on Real Jobsites?

GPS machine control systems have existed in construction for a long time, yet their use across everyday jobsites has remained limited.

The issue was never whether the technology worked. It was whether technology made crews efficient. On a typical jobsite, time is already tight. Crews are small. Schedules move quickly. Traditional systems required models, localization routines, base stations setup, and benching. That structure made sense technically, but it complicated the crews’ day and limited the adoption of machine control systems.

“Mass adoption depends on three factors: cost effectiveness, reliability and ease of use.” — Chuck Harris, Benchmark Tool & Supply.

And traditional GPS machine control systems didn’t quite hit all three.

How EasyNav Simplifies GPS Machine Control Workflows 

CHCNAV’s EasyNav removes barriers that complicate existing machine control systems.

In-field design replaces models, eliminating both preparation time and model-related costs. Utilizing a network correction source removes the need for localization and base station setup. The GPS antennas included eliminates the need for benching and elevation is continuously updated. The antennas track all constellations, increasing the accessibility of the system. For example, older technology only had the ability to track two satellite constellations making it difficult to work due to obstructive tree cover. EasyNav has made these areas accessible, allowing crews to work in terrain that was previously hard to access.

EasyNav also stores points and project data, allowing crews to return to a site later and pick up where they left off or reuse saved points on similar projects. That continuity simplifies service work and makes it easier to train new operators without starting over.

The system aligns with how operators and crews actually work on a jobsite. That alignment did not happen in isolation. EasyNav was refined with direct input from Benchmark’s team, based on how machines are installed, operated, and supported on real jobsites.

“CHC took a good system and dialed it in to where it needed to be with the Benchmark team in the United States, at Benchmark’s facility.” — Ryan Deemer, Skid Steer Nation

Why Installation Details Matter on the Jobsite?

EasyNav ships as a complete installation kit, including sensors, mounting brackets, and the GPS antennas. Contractors can install the system themselves, but support is available when needed. Benchmark’s installation team focuses on the details that determine whether a system feels integrated or intrusive.

During a live installation for Sy-Con Excavations & Utilities, those details stood out immediately.

“Is this monitor going to be in your way? Where can we place this? It’s the little things that matter…” — Sy Kirby

Those questions are not cosmetic. Monitor placement, cable routing, and cab layout affect how confidently an operator works throughout the day. When the system fits the machine and the operator, it gets used the way it’s intended.

“We try and put it in places where when you’re digging trenches, cables won’t get snagged. We hide components where they’re not out in the open or visible.” – Levi Senter, Benchmark Tool & Supply

Training Without the Learning Curve

Training that once took days can now be completed in a matter of hours because the workflow is intuitive. Earlier systems introduced unnecessary complexity, which often made operators hesitant to interact with the systems. EasyNav was designed with those earlier complexities in mind.

“I am petrified to touch my own data collector. Here I am understanding everything as Levi is showing me. It’s so simple from a usability standpoint.” — Sy Kirby

How EasyNav Machine Control System Improves Jobsite Safety?

In trenching, foundation work, or septic installations, traditional methods often require a crew member to stand inside a hole to verify depth or grade. With real-time elevation information available in the cab, that exposure is removed. A person no longer needs to be in the trench, reducing risk for both the crew and the company.

Support After Installation

Most issues can be resolved remotely via Benchmark’s remote support software, allowing operators to keep working while Benchmark’s team assists. When on-site help is required, trained technicians can reach jobsites quickly. Benchmark’s support staff further standardizes installation, troubleshooting, and operation so systems are deployed and supported consistently.

How Cost Efficiency Impacts GPS Machine Control Adoption?

EasyNav delivers 3D capability at pricing traditionally associated with 2D systems. More importantly, it removes costs created by complexity—model preparation, extended setup time, additional labor, and downtime. As operators work more efficiently, crews complete work faster and contractors gain capacity to take on additional jobs without expanding their workforce.

EasyNav supports a wide range of work—from pond slopes and building pads to septic installations. It is a system that can easily become part of an existing workflow.

Submit the form below to learn more about CHCNAV’s EasyNav Machine Control System.

This article is based on insights from a recent conversation on machine control disruption. You can watch the full podcast here.