5 tools for construction project management

There are more and more technological resources available to a Project Manager to carry out his tasks. There are so many different types of tools that we are close to the day when each tool covers a specific need. However, before resorting to technology, it is important to define the characteristics of each project. It is not a question of using the latest tool or the most prestigious tool on the market. The choice should be based on other criteria, such as the functionality of the tool. We could opt for the most sophisticated tool that offers the most resources, but if it is not compatible with the nature of the project, we will certainly have made a bad decision. We must remember that it should be the tool that adapts to the project and not the project to the tool.

In this post we would like to propose five tools that we consider useful in construction projects, beyond the standard or multi-sector tools such as Microsoft Project, which are also of great interest. Construction projects tend to be complex, high-investment, long-term and composed of simultaneous tasks. Few other sectors require such detailed supervision and monitoring. The tasks that make up these projects must be constantly monitored to measure their evolution and, if necessary, implement corrective actions. In addition, the multiplicity of resources required demands efficient and coordinated management.

Therefore, tools that aim to optimise these tasks must offer resources to integrate the different elements of a project. Depending on the degree of integration required, Project Management is responsible for choosing the best tool. Let’s take a look at some of the most commonly used tools.

1) Procore

This is a software specifically designed to operate in the cloud. Through it, the Project Manager accesses a single-page dashboard where he/she can manage project tasks and monitor their progress. In addition, it offers a drawing management tool that is very useful in those cases where it is necessary to visualise the works and their degree of progress.

2) BuildTools

Originally from Minneapolis, in the United States, this platform is designed for customised or authored projects. Its main advantage is that it allows project managers to make all the changes necessary to adapt the project. It also manages communication and scheduling, integrating elements such as tasks, budget, deadlines, documents, among others. It is available on the market for an affordable price.

3) Co-construct

This is one of the most generic tools in the sector. Based on a web and mobile model, it offers the user the tools for the basic management of a project, including a calendar of dates and task tracking. It also has a comments section where participants can share aspects related to the project in real time. It has been in use since 2005.

4) BuilderTrend

Considered to be one of the best software in the remodeling and construction industry. BuilderTrend offers its users scheduling lists, time sheets, messaging and numerous accounting applications to optimise the management of a project. However, its greatest contribution lies in the pre-sales process tools, such as customer and bid management and proposal generation. Its fixed price is $99, but it can be increased in case the Project Manager wants to add more projects to the initial tool.

5) WorkflowMax

This software is specifically designed for the management of invoices derived from the implementation of a project. In other words, it is an integrated programme that operates almost like an accounting tool. It provides resources for sales, project execution in all its phases and project invoicing. It is mainly used in projects that require multiple resources and a permanent control of them.

 

angle grinder