Running a construction company or being a construction manager comes with many challenges, and keeping operations efficient isn't always easy. Fortunately, several technology products can streamline daily activities and keep projects running smoothly. Let's look at three types of software/apps that will help increase your productivity and reduce operating costs.
1) BuildingBlok
When it comes to coordinating different teams on one convenient interface, BuildingBlok is one of the best tools. You can collaborate with team members via desktop, laptop, tablet, or smartphone so everyone remains on the same page throughout all project phases. At the same time, you always have control over who sees what, so the correct information is distributed to the correct parties.
Document management is made easy through a global file manager, where you can upload and save blueprints and other construction documents. You can also archive documents that aren't being used but may be important later. Maintaining an effective communication channel and making it simple to retrieve documents can get more done in less time.
Financial management is crucial, and BuildingBlok is ideal for organizing and storing contracts. The budget feature keeps tabs on your financial documents, so you always know the details of your financial situation. You can also create real-time financial reports to know how much a job costs at any given time. By maintaining control over your budget, you can identify inefficiencies and take measures to avoid overspending.
This platform also streamlines bidding and makes managing your construction-related contracts easy. Contractors can create their profiles and state their areas of expertise. You can then communicate in real-time to hasten the flow of information and quickly upload all bidding documents.
If you're looking for a construction tool that does job costing and effective bidding, use CivMat, a free resource for contractors, project managers, and estimators.
2) Fleet Management Solutions
Construction equipment plays a huge role in completing projects. In the past, construction company owners and managers had limited control over managing equipment. However, several construction software types nowadays make managing bulldozers, excavators, backhoes, or an entire fleet easy.
Security can be an issue, especially in specific locations. Machine System Security from Caterpillar can be utilized to prevent theft. This will often pay for itself when your company saves thousands of dollars by protecting high price equipment.
Product Link™ is "a remote monitoring solution that collects data from your asset's electronic control module." You can then use this data to determine areas where your fleet can improve efficiency. From there, you can make the proper adjustments to operate your fleet more effectively — and save money. You may even see a spike in productivity as more data is accumulated.
The Vital Information Management System (VIMS) Supervisor takes information from a database and gives you production and maintenance reports on your fleet. This is beneficial because you can often spot maintenance issues in advance and make repairs before they become a serious problem and cost excessive money. Consequently, this can be monumental in lowering long-term operating costs.
3) The Cloud
Cloud-based software and apps are helpful for businesses in many industries and can accomplish numerous tasks. The Cloud can be used for everything from document tracking to data storage to monitoring project status in the construction industry.
According to GetApp, "remote access to applications and information allows staff from construction companies to work collaboratively without being tied to a specific physical location. With cloud-based construction software, contractors can access information from any device, portable computers, smartphones, or tablets. The only thing you need is Internet access."
This allows you to collaborate with contractors, subcontractors, and architects in the office, field, or home. You and your team members can maintain clear communication, and minor glitches can be immediately addressed, so they don't snowball into something bigger. With a variety of Cloud-based software and apps, you should be able to find a product that fits your needs without any unnecessary extras.
Implementing the right tech products into your construction company can be highly advantageous. Besides making the lives of you and your team members easier, you should see a spike in productivity and cut back on operating costs. This ultimately translates into quicker project completion and more earnings.
