Constructing a house, bridge, or anything else involves several steps that can be difficult to track. That is why professionals rely on online construction project management software. These tools help manage timelines, budgets, scheduling, communication, etc. They also let users access real-time data from any location so that they are up to date with the project’s progress. That said, one must choose the right software by considering a few important factors.
Scope of work
Not every software is built alike. While some may be able to handle communication between multiple stakeholders and condense all information in one place, others can be less capable. That is why it is important for construction project managers and business owners to think about the type of software they would like to invest in. One should look for a tool that aligns with their business needs. The software should also be scalable, meaning it should be able to handle the changing needs of the business.
Ease of use
Not every team member will be tech-savvy. So, the software should be easy to use by most members of the crew and even clients. Choosing such a software will ensure everyone has easy access to project information and can work efficiently.
Collaboration and communication
Construction projects are not completed in a vacuum. They often employ the help of a large team, such as contractors, subcontractors, project managers, stakeholders, engineers, architects, etc. Since communicating within such a large group can be difficult, one must look for project management software that facilitates collaboration and communication. With this feature, it is possible to keep everyone up to date regarding the progress of the project and plan the next steps accordingly.
Integration with other tools
Some businesses may already have a tech stack for their projects. It could include construction budget tracking software, BIM (Building Information Modeling) software, scheduling platforms, design programs like CAD (computer-aided design), etc. For maximum efficiency, businesses must look for project management software that integrates seamlessly with their other platforms. This will reduce the administrative burden, allow changes to reflect in real time, and automate processes like task tracking and resource allocation.
Cost and budget
Next, businesses must consider the total cost of their investment. Ideally, good construction management software will pay for itself over a few years by automating data tracking, budgeting, forecasting, cost analysis, communication, and other processes. This automation can help prevent any expensive errors that may occur with human administrators. The software can also improve cost control by recognizing issues with budgeting, overruns, and other details so that project managers are in a better position to make well-informed decisions.
Customer support
No software is immune to technical difficulties. So, companies must look for providers that offer 24/7 customer support, whether in the form of user modules, patch updates, or training. This will significantly improve the team’s understanding of the software and help reinforce the best industrial standards within the company. Regular access to customer support staff will also ensure technical issues are addressed promptly, reducing software downtime.
Data security
Construction project management software can largely be divided into three categories: cloud-based software, mobile applications, and on-premises software. No matter the type one chooses, data security must be considered. With cyber-attacks on the rise, it is crucial to opt for tools that offer various levels of protection against hacking, malware, and other cyber threats. End-to-end encryption, strong authentication, patch management, GRC (Governance, Risk, and Compliance), and DLP (data loss prevention) solutions are common security measures leading construction project management software providers take to ensure their data is not at risk. Such measures help businesses secure their data from external threats, which are often difficult to deal with.
Data analytics and dashboard
Construction companies store a huge amount of data on construction software. To effectively manage and keep track of it all, companies must find a software solution that has a reliable dashboard that can be customized, edited, and accessed in real time. The tool should have features such as a dedicated search button for actively filtering and sorting through results and data visualization to get a better understanding of the project’s progress. It is important to note that the dashboard may appear differently for everyone. For instance, top-level project managers may have access to an executive dashboard that offers an overall summary of the project, while customers may see a dashboard designed for the end user to track changes.
Scheduling and resource management
One should ensure the software offers features like team scheduling and resource management. These features will allow project managers to chart details like availability, skill set, cost, and other factors. This can make it easier to create daily and weekly schedules, assign tasks, and plan work efficiently, reducing the risk of delays. Some software may also be able to maintain daily time sheets for managers to review and approve at the click of a button for better workforce management.