Construction Management Software Buyer's Guide

Section 1: What is a Construction Management Platform

A construction management platform is a comprehensive software solution designed to streamline and optimize construction project management processes. These platforms integrate various tools and features that facilitate project planning, scheduling, budgeting, communication, and document management. By centralizing all project-related information and collaboration into a single interface, construction management platforms enhance efficiency, teamwork, and decision-making throughout a construction project's full lifecycle.

As a buyer, you must navigate many options and find the platform that best suits your current needs while realizing that as your business grows, you want a flexible solution. In a recent study by Software Advice, over 230 products were identified for construction management. However, not all solutions are the same. Some solutions are built strictly for use in the field, while others are designed primarily for office environments. Some solutions focus on document management tasks like RFIs and submittals, while others emphasize financial features such as contracts, change orders, and budgets. It is your responsibility to find the solution that sets you and your organization up for success based on the unique needs of your business.

Investing in construction project software can significantly enhance the efficiency and productivity of your construction team and the overall profitability of your projects and company. Conversely, making the wrong choice can cause enormous disruption, frustrate employees, and drain time and financial resources. When most new buyers set out to find the perfect tool for their business, they usually focus solely on software features. However, this is just one piece of your overall investment. The right software can pave the way for growth and success.

When choosing a solution, you want to find the right features, but you are also investing in the vendor of that solution and their commitment to technical leadership, industry experience, implementation support, professional services, future release plans, and more. This commitment is crucial for your peace of mind and the success of your project. Most importantly, you want to achieve an excellent return on investment (ROI).

This Buyer's Guide aims to provide a structured approach to evaluate and compare different construction management platforms as you do your due diligence. By understanding the key components and benefits of construction management platforms, you will be better equipped to make an informed decision that will enhance your project's success and contribute to your organization's long-term growth. Throughout this guide, you will find:

• General guidelines to help build your goals and requirements
• A deep dive into valuable features and functionality
• Tips on how to avoid sales "workarounds" from software vendor

In full transparency, we at ProjectTeam are a construction management platform vendor, and we hope that you consider us in your search. This guide is intended to provide a general framework to aid in your decision-making process. If you have any questions or want to dive deeper into any evaluation factors during your search, we encourage you to reach out. We are here to help and would be happy to assist you in finding the best solution for your needs.

KEY TAKEAWAY
A construction management platform is essential for enhancing project efficiency, collaboration, and profitability, and selecting the right solution requires careful evaluation of both features and vendor commitment.

Section 2: Building Goals and Planning Requirements

Before starting your search for a new construction management platform, you should have at least a basic understanding of your goals and vision. You'll want to refer back to those goals frequently to make the best decision for you and your organization. The software you're evaluating must offer benefits that align with your goals. Depending on the size of your business and your current structures, coming up with reasonable goals can take time and effort.

When thinking of your goals, it's important to distinguish between goals and vision. Most of us use the terms ‘goals' and 'vision' interchangeably when talking about business. However, each has its unique purpose...

Download the full guide to continue →