The construction industry is very competitive, and project managers and contractors need a sophisticated but reliable construction software in order to execute projects within the set budget in a timely manner. The construction software should be able to do more than just automating tasks. It has to connect people and help increase productivity and lay footing for unlocking new business opportunities. Vendors who design construction software also have a role in ensuring that the products they create are configurable and contemporary solutions that are not redundant.
What is construction software?
This is an amalgamation of programs, processes, and information that can be utilized in performing a wide range of tasks when building a structure as a means of boosting productivity and competitiveness. A reliable and efficient construction software should have the capacity to perform roles administered by people like design engineers, construction managers, construction engineers, and project managers.
An Information Technology survey conducted by the Construction Financial Management Association in 2008 showed that quite a number of contractors are currently using the construction software applications in executing projects such as cost estimation, accounting, management of projects, and computer-aided design. Some firms in the construction industry such as industrial, residential, commercial, and even general contracting have also embraced construction software technology to boost productivity in their operations. The adaptability of the software is often based on the type of company and the sector in which it's applicable. In most cases, the usage of construction software increases as the size of the firm increases.
Here are the benefits of construction software to various industry stakeholders:
Business owners
Owners of small and large businesses can quickly spot problems and perhaps control the risk areas that cause delays and lead to cost overruns. They can sufficiently get top-notch quality hand-over manuals that have been completed and compiled in a digital manner.
General contractors
These contractors can easily coordinate processes amongst their consultants, managers, and clients efficiently. The reports and insights can show them the status of their bids and submittals.
Project managers
Managers can utilize the functionalities of the construction software to report the progress of various complex and independent parties. The audit trail enables the project managers to provide their subcontractors with accurate, seamless and updated information, and hence minimize unnecessary delays. Also, they can enhance their reputation and bottom line regardless of whether they're working on big headquarters buildings or revitalizing a multi-use urban area. A reliable construction software can boost the management of massive files, data and various project participants.
Top construction software applications
- CoConstruct: This is a highly rated custom builder software used by design-build companies and remodelers. Builders can easily communicate with their various trade partners and clients. It has features like the comments section that enables users to inform their clients or partners in real-time.
- Procore: It's a cloud-based CPM program that is designed for the construction industry. It's a simple and secure cloud-based software.
- Buildertrend: Is an award winning software for the remodeler and construction industry. Some of its notable features are to-do lists, messaging, time sheets, and accounting software integrations.
A company that is considering a construction software should first assess its needs and the existing software applications so as to ensure that the new construction software integrates properly with its database. This is very important to avoid unnecessary downtime and extra costs of importing its entire database to the new platform. The software vendor should also have a reliable customer support system that is available 24/7. It's important to include the needs of all subcontractors as well when selecting the right construction software for the company. The CPU speed, required memory, and the hardware configurations are also very vital factors to consider.