If you're trying to find an edge against the competition, a simple solution is to start using apps on your smart phone or iPad while on the job site.

Company name: CertainTeed Gypsum

App name: dBstation

Platform(s): iPad 2 iOS 4.3 or later and Android Tablet

Target audience: Contractors, Builders, Architects, & Homeowners

App description: New Interactive Tool Simulates Acoustical Performance of CertainTeed Gypsum Products in Real-World Applications.  Features a catalog where residential and commercial systems can be compared under equivalent settings, and a scenario application to experience acoustical performance in real-life situations.

Company name: CertainTeed Insulation

App name: The CertaSpray¨ Mobile Field Troubleshooting App

Platform(s): Google and Apple Stores      

App url: certainteed.com/certasprayapp

Target audience: Spray Foam Insulation Installers

App description: The CertaSpray¨ Mobile Field Troubleshooting App provides installers with easy access to the information they need most, exactly when they need it, on the job.

With a few quick taps you can access:

• Troubleshooting field issues
• Health and safety information
• First aid procedures
• Application techniques
• Product information including MSDS, specifications, brochures and videos

Company name: ClarkDietrich Building Systems

App name:  iProSTUD 2.0

Platform(s): Compatible with All PlatformsÑWeb Based Application

Target audience: Contractors, Distributors & Architects

App description: Developed specifically for use with the ProSTUD¨ Drywall Framing System, iProSTUD 2.0 offers the ability to filter wall assembly data by specific properties, including wall design, wall assembly, limiting heights, STC sound ratings and UL fire protection ratings. Plus, iProSTUD 2.0 provides direct links to UL design reports, third party STC sound tests and SubmittalPro¨, where contractors can view technical data sheets and generate submittals.

Company name: Hunter Panels Ð XCI

App name: Assembly Guide

Platform(s): iTunes for iOS devices, Google Play for Android devices and Amazon.com for Kindle Fire

Target audience: Architects

App description: Hunter Panels, manufacturer of Hunter XCI exterior continuous polyiso insulation, developed this easy to use app to assist design professionals in designing NFPA 285 compliant wall assemblies. This app helps configure all components of a wall assembly from interior finish to exterior cladding. A final PDF is created listing all of your component choices for the compliant wall assembly.

Company name: Parex USA, Inc

App name: Parex Mobile App

Platform(s): iPhone & Android

Target audience: Distributors, Contractors and Architects

App description: There are four basic sections to this: The Systems & Assemblies Section for Details and Specifications; The Product Selector Section allows you to obtain Product Information, Safety Data or utilize the company's Coverage Calculator; The Product Support Section helps you connect to a Tech Rep via telephone, email or send project photos that allows Parex to suggest the best solution; and The Distributor Locator Section provides the nearest distributors and/or a listing of all distributors in a particular region.

Company name: Trim-Tex, Inc.

App name: Trim-Tex Drywall Solutions

Platform(s): iPad

Target audience: Contractors, Builders, Architects, & Homeowners

App description:  Trim-Tex Drywall Solutions is full of inspiring drywall art and the latest innovations in Trim-Tex rigid vinyl corner beads including how-to videos, a dealer locator, and a simple sketchpad for laying out your drywall art ideas.