Transcending from desirable to an essential, construction management software solutions have come a long way since its inception. The construction arena is one that is extremely complex and comprises a plethora of impacting factors. Thanks to the boom in technology, the construction business also has come to be bestowed with its blessed rays. A great platform, construction management software amazingly aids companies in smoothening the essentials of the construction process like communication, decision making, job scheduling, budget management, and more. It thrives on the goal of automating the construction business and making it an easier feat.

Despite its popularity among construction companies and builders, what comes as a surprise is that the software remains a majorly untapped technology.

This is driven from the basic fact that construction contract management software is not clearly understood. To put in definition, it is a construction project software that is specially designed to be used by construction professionals. These are among just an ounce of benefits and they extend way beyond. Thus, there is a notable rise that will be seen in the usage of construction or project planning software in the different construction sectors around the world over time. Businesses have come to see the great asset that construction management software can be to their company and here is acquiring a better understanding of the same.

Notable features of construction management software
The features offered by this software are vast and companies must focus on the most essential functionalities. Here are some features that bring good value in terms of improved productivity, efficiency, and competitiveness for organizations:

Task scheduling – This feature aids in effectively scheduling the different tasks involved in the construction business. It balances the workload among the different professionals working on board while also rescheduling the same when required. The software allocates the resources and the needed manpower to match the given timelines of project completion.

Cost allocation – As with every business, the cost is an essential factor and should be addressed with the right solutions. The software capably sets the rates for the services offered by the company, defines given costs, and simultaneously monitors the expenses. It works by boosting productivity through the management of cost.

Accounts management – The cost or expenditure are closely monitored while integrating with the plethora of other accounting tools related to the business. It automates the various accounts that are payable and receivable while adjusting the same to fit the preference of clients. Constructors may handle different projects at a time, and this makes the feature very important.

Efficient reporting – The best construction project management software offers managers complete control over the different kinds of project data. Data creation and decision-making processes are simplified through analytical reports produced by the software. Also, one can access data reports in real time which can also be transported to other system software. Construction professionals can better evaluate the status of projects and identify the risk beforehand.

Management of inventory – Inventory management is a feature that assists in keeping track of inventory, eliminating the possibility of a write-off, and monitoring the total assets of the company. Thus, project handlers can effectively undertake the distribution of equipment and resources.

System compatibility – The best and well-designed construction management software can support every system, including computers and mobile devices. Construction managers can conveniently access data, irrespective of the data device at hand. Personnel can make quick decisions and complete the given task from the site or without having to go back to the office using the software.

Management of documents – Document management is an imperative feature that is offered by construction management software. The single platform handles and arranges pertinent documents which felicitate the smooth flow of work. The system integrates with other systems to streamline the workflow and information of security.

Benefits of construction management software
How does construction management software benefit a business?

A construction business can truly reap innumerable benefits from this type of investment. It completely depends on the way it is used and the type of requirements. Some of the most remarkable benefits of construction management software include:

Effective management – Construction management software brings in a system and this approach aids in better management. The systematic functioning ensures that constructors can carry out the plan smoothly and without glitches. It also effectively allows staff to generate requests for information, data, or submittals from superiors in a streamlined manner. Vital information such as budgets and project data can also be managed with security monitoring.

Control of sensitive documents – The construction business comprises storing and processing important files and documents. The use of construction management software eliminates the need for the obsolete practice of managing documents and safekeeping in cabinets. It electronically processes the documents while storing the same on the cloud management system.

Quick access and sharing – The data from the project are managed and stored in a single location, this brings access to information with the help of a simple software. The construction management software also records the log time and documents and when they were modified; thus, there is a minimal chance of pertinent documents getting misplaced. Employees have a better and secured access over important data during all times.

Better assessment of construction risk – There may be a possibility of certain kinds of risks associated with the construction business. The effective organization and management of the data can help managers have better supervision over potential risk. Thus, enabling the opportunity to access and resolve the same even before it occurs.

Budget control – Construction management software is designed with account management capabilities that allow access to client’s order documents and cost statuses. This helps in having better control over the accounts and the budget allocations. Project errors are minimized, and they prevent the possibility of the higher running cost. More importantly, the software reduces operational cost and this, in turn, generates better profits for the company.

Business expansion – Every business functions with the goal of expanding over a period and the construction management software facilitates the idea. It promotes more efficiency in the business process and speeds up the completion of construction. Thus, businesses can expand by taking on far more projects than otherwise. An increase in the number of completed projects will go on to automatically create a sturdier presence in the market.

Quality control and improvement – The software enhances the manner of planning and control of the construction process. There is better communication and a lesser possibility of delayed projects. The reduction of errors, in turn, bring better control and a reduction in errors.

Better integration of teams – Numerous teams work toward the successful planning and execution of projects. The solutions offered by construction management software enable managers to efficiently huddle with the different key groups that are involved in the construction process. Team collaborations and improved communication are one the vitals for the smooth running of any business and the software brings this great benefit.

Virtual access – Construction management tools are typically cloud-based, and this is a good benefit as the data and tools can be accessed even when on the field. It reduces the effort required to report task delegation and completion as all the essentials can be completed virtually.

Popular construction management software
There are countless construction management software programs being offered in the market and each one brings along its own set of functionalities. Each one is set apart from the rest with unique offerings like customer management, project management, on-field service, and more. Listed below are the popular construction management software systems:

Viewpoint – A software that aims to server modern construction, Viewpoint is revered for its notable features such as content management, resource planning, project collaboration, and more. It works by boosting better visibility and profitability of the construction project while reducing the possibility of encountering risk. This construction management software is designed with useful features and services that prevent the occurrence of problems which can hamper successful project completion.

BuilderTrend – This software system is majorly designed for constructors that undertake home building and remodeling projects. The solution is web-based and thus, can be accessed through any device from any location site. Features such as advanced service management, project scheduling, and project management reduce the hurdles before and during construction. BuilderTrend also comes with customer management that includes helpful tools for payment processing and requests for warranty.

Procore – Procore aims to serve its clientele with three key factors that include addressing customer issues, designing systems that can aid as a solution, and ensuring the system can be used with immediate effectiveness. The software solution was launched in the year 2003 and has been revered for its unique approach. Procore streamlines the process of standardized construction while letting constructors drive the best value from the features offered. It also offers good and quick customer support that is essential for smoothly carrying out functions.

ShapeDo – For construction firms or professionals looking for a seamless way to track construction design changes, ShapeDo maybe the answer. The software is specially designed to assist the user through the design process, from blueprint to completion. It also enables easy collaborations through visual communication tools, this eliminates the occurrence of disputes during the planning process. The cloud access allows users to discuss important project details in real time. ShapeDo is widely used by companies that undertake construction for agile projects.

CoConstruct – CoConstruct is a construction project management solution that is specially designed to serve the purpose of controlling key-project tasks. From scheduling, budgeting, client communication to construction stage planning, it carries all the imperative functions with much ease. What sets the software apart from the herd is that it gives constructors the liberty to keep up with the evolving concepts throughout the process of execution. This is made possible with the software feature that enables constant customization while being open to revision. Furthermore, it comes with an easy user interface (UI) and this facilitates faster learning among employees or users.

PlanGrid – PlanGrid is a software that is mainly dedicated to providing effective tools to serve web-based construction management. It allows access to data using any device such as a mobile phone or desktop in real in time. The sophisticated solution has been widely used for construction projects and is increasingly being adopted by leading construction companies.

Cost of construction management software
How much money does one have to shell out to get this software?

There is no denying the fact that this software can cost through the roof, especially if compared with the rates of the conventional software used by most companies. Depending upon the size of the firm and the functionalities, the software can cost anywhere from $80,000 to $60,000. While the amount may sound whopping, this form of technology can help businesses save big in the long run or recoup considering the cost reductions that stem from the solution.

Beware of potential issues
Construction management software also comes with its own set of issues or downsides. The most prominent one is the heavy cost. This factor can especially impact smaller organizations as they may not be able to drive as many benefits and the costs may outweigh the same. Implementing the new solution will also take a while as staff must be trained on ways to use the software and most effective ways to derive value from it. Employees with a lack of technical proficiency can take longer to adapt if the features are elaborate. Lastly, the features that are offered by a construction management software can become obsolete over time. This will call for regular updates, and in turn, lead to higher costs.

The management of construction and project developments with the use of specifically designed and built software indubitably brings managers a strong grasp over all the different aspects involved in the planning stage. This extends from controlling the projects that are falling behind, generating data reports, to assigning project tasks. When considering the cost of the software, it is the detrimental possibilities of not implementing the professional management software that clearly stands out. Several undesirable occurrences such as lack of communication, missing project targets, ineffective budget control, and more make the software a necessity for the smooth running of construction firms.