Traditionally slower to adapt to or accept new technology and software, the construction industry, in general, hasn’t been impacted, or for that matter improved, by technological advances at the same level as other industries.  

A McKinsey study found that construction-related spending accounted for approximately 13 percent of the world’s gross domestic product (GDP). Yet annual productivity growth only increased one percent over the last 20 years, leaving roughly $1.6 trillion worldwide on the table. The study, conducted in 2017, revealed that construction-related productivity needed improvement by more than 50 percent. 

Fast forward three years later and COVID-19, and we’re facing a precipice of change, or get left behind. McKinsey’s updated study on The next normal in construction and How disruption is reshaping the world’s largest ecosystem makes significant shifts that are accelerating the construction industry’s changes. More than two-thirds of respondents believe industrialization and digitalization will have the highest impact. Now, more than ever, is the time to embrace construction project management software. 

What is project management in construction?

According to the Construction Management Association of America construction management “is compatible with all project delivery methods.” In essence, the construction project manager manages the projects schedule, cost, quality, safety, scope, and function for jobs large and small. 

For most small builders, remodelers, and contractors, the owner does all the duties of a project manager and a whole lot more. There are ways to automate many of the functions of a typical construction project manager, achieves. Project management software allows you to save time and become more productive with tasks like estimating so that you have time for yourself. 

A study conducted by McGraw Hill Construction showed that construction project managers saved money, avoided or mitigated problems, and produced higher quality results. 

Typical duties or skills needed for construction project manager range from: 

  • Planning and estimating the project 
    From the cost estimate to the schedule, a project manager is responsible for ensuring everything is organized and ready to move forward efficiently. 
  • Hiring the right people
    Based on the project needs, the project construction manager hires and manages staff and subcontractors and ensures they are doing their jobs effectively and efficiently. 
  • Manage equipment and materials
    The project construction manager keeps an inventory of all materials on the job site, from basic tools to rental equipment.  
  • Time Management
    Staying on time is critical for construction projects. It could make or break the budget. Construction project managers make sure that everything is on time and running smoothly. 
  • Budget Management 
    Much like time management, a construction project manager is the money manager and reviews costs on a daily or weekly basis to ensure there are no-cost overruns.  
  • Communications and management paperwork
    Managing expectations from the customer down to subcontractors and equipment vendors, the construction project manager must have good communication skills, both written and verbal. 

Benefits of using Project Management Software

Even though the construction industry has been slow to adopt, post-pandemic construction momentum has shifted significantly toward embracing technology as it offers very significant productivity gains. The McKinsey study noted that software usage would increase and enable cost savings and position companies for growth. Software will also become the primary interface between builders and supplierstraditionally a face-to-face engagement. 

According to a recent article in Construction Executive, the more construction technology companies that offer subscription models, like Buildxact, the industry sees significant benefits. 

The benefits justify the low barrier of entry, including: 

  • Accessibility
    Access your work from anywhere. Keep track of paperwork and essentials all in one place. 
  • Efficiency
    Automation of several features, all working together, enables you to do your job more efficiently, saving time on the job. 
  • Management
    From time and money to scheduling staff and subcontractors, project management software allows you to keep track of the job from every aspect and integrate with popular accounting software. 

Project Management Software for Builders and Remodelers

There are several cloud-based construction software solutions offered throughout the construction technology industry. Some are more powerful than others offering a handful of features. Buildxact, uniquely designed for the small builder, remodeler, and contractors, provides a single solution from the first takeoff to the final invoice. 

Are you tired of working late into the night? Buildxact online software platform helps you spend less time replying to emails, creating quotes and sorting invoices, and other overhead. Our software will help you manage all aspects of each job, such as quoting, scheduling, purchasing, and invoicing, from anywhere, saving you between 50 and 80 percent in time. 

The industry is ripe for progress. As home construction continues to heal the economy, the resistance to adopting technology will wane as the desire to improve efficiency, accuracy, and cost savings shifts, rise in importance 

Try our 14-day no-obligation free trial today.