No matter what sort of structure your construction company is building, organization brings a higher level of efficiency. By keeping your operations meticulously streamlined, many problems can be avoided. One of the best ways to accomplish this is through the use of a software management program that tracks all relevant data, allowing managers to make informed decisions that benefit the company. However, not all software is created equal. Here are a few of the things to look for when making your choice.
Project Scheduling and Estimating
Any good program should have a scheduling page that keeps close track of all jobs to be done and when they are to be done. Without this, it is much harder for the management staff to get a clear sense of the roles that each worker will play. As for estimation, this is equally important if you wish to prevent cost overruns.
Document Management
There are a lot of documents involved in a construction project. There are permits, work orders, supply lists, and a whole lot more. Before computers came along, this required specific people to manage files and folders. Now, it can be automated. With so many documents to keep track of, you really can’t afford not to have this feature.
Many of the documents you need are filed with the American Institute Of Architects. As such, it is imperative for documentation and forms to be accurate; otherwise, if they are completed incorrectly, forms will be rejected. AIA software ensures that form submission goes smoothly and documents are filled out properly, so make sure that your program is AIA-compliant.
Automatic Reminders
No one can remember everything at all times. Even the most professional of managers can still benefit from a system that keeps them informed of all relevant deadlines. Many programs will include a calendar program with the option to set various reminders.
Integration with Existing Software
Thanks to the internet, very few computer systems are isolated from one another. Thus, it is essential that your management software does not cause any conflicts with the software used by others. For instance, if one of your employees takes their work home, they should be able to use the program on their home computers with no problem. For this reason, it is good to try and find a program that offers Windows, Mac, and Linux versions.
Good Customer Support
In a piece of complex software that is designed to do many things at once, there is little doubt that customer support will be needed to some extent. Make sure that the company you buy your software from has a good record for customer service and a helpful attitude when contacted. You may even consider faking a problem just so that you can gauge the service of the company. It may sound shady, but it does no harm and also helps to let you know what kind of service to expect. You should also research the company’s history of defect removal.
Make sure you look for all these qualities when shopping around for your construction management software program. Each of them is essential if you are to get the maximum benefit for your money.
If you need help, guidance, or are looking for full service construction management, then Pride One Construction is there for you.
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