Guide to Construction Software

Integrated construction management software

Integrated software for construction that covers the complete project cycle from back office accounting functions to daily scheduling of people, equipment and materials may be the answer for contractors who work on substantial - and often multiple - projects.

I recommend: Sage Master Builder offers a complete construction management software package including estimating, production, accounting and analysis. Penta Construction Enterprise Software is a construction management software suite that includes modules for financial management, equipment management, labor management, project management, service management and document management. ProCore is a web-based construction management tool that archives all your project information online.

Construction management software modules and stand-alone solutions

Construction estimating software, construction scheduling software and accounting software can be either stand-alone programs or modules in a construction software suite.

I recommend: Foundation for Windows is a stand-alone comprehensive construction accounting solution that handles job costing, payroll, general ledger, subcontracts, time and material billing and more.  For additional stand-alone options or modules for construction accounting software, construction cost estimation software or construction scheduling software, check the listings at Business.com.

Field force enablement in construction software solutions

While most construction companies have a field force automation solution in place, there are advantages to having one that is integrated with your construction management software solution.

I recommend: Penta Mobile is a web-based construction software module that can be deployed across different devices including SmartPhones, Java-enabled phones, PDAs, laptops and tablets. Jonas Field Force Enablement works by combining Jonas e-Services and Jonas Mobile with the Jonas Dispatch system. Construction management software provider Explorer Software’s Explorer Communiqué module uses Microsoft’s .NET platform for wireless access via the BlackBerry and many other devices. 

Construction software designed by market and role

One way to narrow the field of software for construction is to find a solution that is targeted for your particular construction market or your role within that market.

I recommend: Dexter & Chaney’s Spectrum Construction Software offers separate editions for different construction markets including electrical, heavy/highway, general construction and utility. BuildTopia is web-based construction management software with targeted solutions for homebuilders, residential developers, general contractors, sales brokers, warranty service providers and trade partners.

Construction software featuring online partner collaboration

Using the Internet for collaboration is a natural in the construction trade where multiple partners often coordinate activities on the same project.

I recommend: Meridian Systems offers collaborative online scheduling accessible to clients, vendors and suppliers. InfoGraph’s Construction Collaboration Software allows owners, engineers, architects and contractors to share and collaborate design documentation. BuildTopia TradeNetwork is a free collaboration tool that allows you to market your services, participate in online bidding and share documents, such as sitemaps, plans, and drawings. BidClerk allows you to search thousands of projects nationwide that are in the planning, bidding and construction phase.