What Is Construction Project Management Software? Part 1

by XAMTA INFOTECH Construction Industry September 9, 2021

What Constitutes Construction Project Management Software?

If you operate within the construction industry, you are already acquainted with the challenges of managing a project. A closer look at construction project management reveals the immense complexity of processes involved in bringing a specific construction project to fruition. The multitude of tasks and simultaneous processes to keep track of can be overwhelming.

Construction Project Management is a comprehensive solution that organizes tasks and monitors a project from its inception to completion. With the right software, one can stay on top of the construction game—meet deadlines, stay on budget, manage contractors, staff, partners, suppliers, and vendors.

Conventionally, construction project management software is of two types: on-premise and cloud-based.

On-premise construction project management software solutions

bestow full control upon their users. Typically installed on servers and computers, an IT staff is required to manage the software. An on-premise solution comes with a significant upfront payment; however, the maintenance or ongoing cost is low.

Cloud-Based systems

can be accessed anytime and anywhere with an Internet-connected system. It provides the convenience of having your data accessible from anywhere. It is usually billed monthly, and the provider manages the necessary upgrades.

Generally speaking, on-premises software is more suitable for larger corporations, while cloud-based software systems will be an excellent fit for small construction industries.

But what exactly makes construction project management software the right fit for your enterprise? That’s precisely what we’re about to explore today.

Features to Look for When Choosing a Construction Project Management Software Tool

Any construction project management software will have a multitude of features to cater to your specific needs. For example, if you’re a general contractor, you should look for software that assists in costing and accounting, document management, personnel tracking, and scheduling.

However, if you’re a builder, your primary focus should be on software with features such as estimating tools, blueprinting, RFIs, bidding capabilities, change orders, dispatching, and equipment procurement.

The most common features of construction project management software include:

• Project Scheduling
• Blueprinting and Drawing, including the ability to import files
• Budgeting, estimating, and forecasting
• Bid proposals, bidding, and bid management
• Financial and accounting reports
• Document management
• Multimedia and images
• Resource management
• Equipment procurement
• Change orders
• RFI production, tracking, and submittals
• Purchase orders
• Personnel management
• Database of contractors and suppliers

Now, what are these features responsible for? Which ones do you need to pay attention to, and which ones are crucial for the successful implementation of your next construction project?

Points to Consider When Choosing Construction Project Management Software

1. Collaboration in Construction Project Management

A good project management software should effectively facilitate seamless collaboration between individuals involved in the project. It should allow teams and individuals to work together regardless of their location—on-site or remote.

According to a study on the importance of collaboration in the construction industry from contractors’ perspectives, “collaboration is essential to the success of construction projects.”

2. Customization in CPM

No organization should have to change or make modifications to fit a new project management system. The top construction project management software should be customizable to fit the requirements of any organization.

A tailored approach to each company is what makes a great construction project management system stand out. The flexible approach is crucial as business demands and working styles keep changing over time.

3. Ease of Use

Several tools come with their fair share of complications and require days of rigorous training. The level of intuitiveness of a specific Construction Project Management (CPM) system should be an indicator of its quality. Your staff and every person involved in the construction process should not face any issues while using construction project management software.

As a matter of fact, user experience is of utmost importance. However, the best software will provide more than a good interface. It will also demonstrate easy usage in a way that increases work output and prevents possible delays.

4. Construction Project Management Security

Having functional software is excellent, but if it’s not secure, your data might be exposed to a significant risk.

When selecting construction project management software, make sure to inquire about its security measures. Check whether the software you’re about to invest in has an encryption protocol for messaging and other security fundamentals that can protect you from a potential security breach.