Using cloud construction software solution is a modern way to transform your construction business. Profitability in construction project starts with efficiency and project transparency. In a highly competitive and complex industry, businesses need to extract optimal value from their software.
Construction ERP systems require a large initial investment, so you want to be sure that you are selecting the right one to keep your projects on budget and on schedule. The question should not be if your business will implement construction ERP, but when it will. So here are some useful questions to consider when selecting your construction ERP system.
1. How will the ERP help win more bids?
Implementing construction ERP software is a large initial investment, so you want to be sure to see a good return on investment. ERP software should increase sales, improve customer service and reduce operating costs. Does your potential ERP system do this?
A major advantage of construction ERP is administrative project management. Does the ERP system provide you with one centralised platform to record all your necessary project data? This real-time capture of data will provide you with the insights you need to help win your next bid.
You should also consider whether the ERP system has other management functionality like Project Management and Customer Relation Management modules. These tools will encourage the growth and success of your construction business. If you can better manage your projects and customers, you are sure to win more bids through improved customer satisfaction and project completion.
2. Is the construction ERP system suited to your business requirements?
The construction industry is a broad category that speaks to several different kinds of businesses. Whether you are a general contractor, home builder, land developer or subcontractor you can benefit from a modern construction ERP. However, your business is unique, and your software should address your particular business requirements.
Does the potential ERP system cater to all your needs in its standard form or will you need to add on modules? If you do need to add additional modules, consider the cost associated with this. Even if you don’t think you will need additional features, consider them anyway as your business may grow substantially and you need an ERP system that is adaptable to your evolution.
3. Does the ERP provide the controls you need?
An effective ERP system should provide you with a core system that has the latest project reports, contracts, budgets, plans, specifications, change orders, invoices, purchase orders and job costs. You should also be able to manage all resources and scheduling items such as project milestones, task budgeting, and internal-project billing.
Does your potential ERP system help you stay on track and show how well are you performing? If there is additional work added to your project can your ERP identify, store and bill for the add-ons as the project moves to completion? Will the system help provide progress billings?
4. Can it coordinate work with other contractors on the job?
Construction projects require many moving parts to work as a cohesive whole. Will your ERP system allow you to schedule work along with other players? Can you easily share important documentation like project drawings from a single source?
Your ERP system should give you a complete view of the project details such as comprehensive schedules, daily logs and other necessary documentation. From this, you can coordinate with your own management team and other contractors. You can update any internal or external with any changes from the customer or the field that allow you to complete work ahead of schedule or avoid some costs that were included in your original bid.
5. How well can the system work wirelessly?
Construction projects happen on the job site. Your workers and transactions are happening in the field, while your servers are at the office. Does your ERP system allow for the easy flow of information between the two?
Your ERP system should empower remote access. This will support construction businesses with several locations, as field workers and office teams have on-the-go access to real-time data and insights. If any issues arise, cloud-based construction software means your entire team from the office to the job site are all updated with real-time access to better manage the project. This also enables collaborative work that reduces project delays and increases customer satisfaction.
With Lorge as your trusted partner, you can be certain that we will guide you in the right direction when it comes to selecting the right construction ERP solution for your business. Over the last 30 years, the consistency of our expertise in business systems has earned us an award-winning reputation. Today, we’re the most trusted name in the implementation, support and training of software automation products. Transform your business today with the best-suited construction ERP system.
