How To Keep Track of Construction Projects Using ERP

Two things can throw a construction project off the track. The first one happens to be exceeding the budget while the second one is exceeding the allotted time frame. Throughout the various stage of the project, the forecasts and the benchmarks need to be closely monitored. It is to ensure that the various costs are as per the pre-fixed plan.

At the same time, the schedule must also be evaluated and re-evaluated since it is expected to change several times till the completion of the project. Therefore, the Construction ERP Software must not be restricted to evaluating cost and schedule, and it should also have the provision for optimization. That way, things will always be efficient, and there can be a lot of savings too.

Here are a few things that can help to keep a construction project on track

Identification of Blockers:

Construction project managers can save a lot by eliminating unnecessary expenses. It can be achieved by pinpointing on the blockers. These are the things that need to be done before starting any work. The blockers can vary, and these could be aspects like inspection, permits, inadequate supply of material, issues related to procuring certain equipment and so on. These factors can impede or block the momentum of work during a construction project.

The method by which a Construction Software can keep track of blockers is through a submittal tool. Submittal tools are basically data fields known as on-site data. It is important to keep this in mind throughout the approval process to ensure that the items are available whenever needed.

As a submission is forwarded to various people like subcontractors, architects and others, there are several points where these can be held for long durations. Consequently, it can lead to delays. In case the manager handling the submittal process is not so proficient in tracking the required information to check if the turn-arounds are on time or not, there is a possibility that a crucial stage of the project might get delayed. Such blockers that fall behind schedule can even lead to a complete halt project if things become critical enough. Hence, it is pivotal to manage and identify the blockers as early as possible.

Change Management:

It has been observed that all construction projects undergo changes. Although controlling changes is to have a well-elaborated scope that has been adequately estimated, there can be many other unseen factors that can lead to an increase in the project cost because of unseen dynamics. The most significant among those is to lose track of the change order details. A change log can easily trace the change process right from the stage it was under consideration. ERP for real estate companiesallows automatic re-calculation of the changes that are approved.

A change order typically requires input from sub-contractors and a real estate ERP can simplify the process. The program allows sub-contractors to submit a price, get approvals or change details. It also allows receiving copies of updated contracts and submit bills. The aspect of control ERP system keeps track of the process, and it happens automatically.

List Punching:

The process is not complete unless the items of the punch list have been cleared. Inconsistent expectations regarding punch list items are the main reason for delays of the pre-scheduled activities. These tools set up the ground for a clear definition of the requisitions to complete a punch list. The large text areas can be utilized to specify what can be fixed and how things are done. Also, the copy paste facility of the software allows the addition of specifications for targeted punch list items without re-existing what exists already.

Time Management:

In the construction sector, the aspects that hamper productivity are tools, materials, equipment and travel. The key to time management is accountability. Tools related to time card makes the process accurate and comprehensive. The right time card tool allows people to input time card information in real time. Most importantly, it allows recording productivity leading to decisions for work estimate.

An ideal construction ERP should facilitate access to information and provide a precise picture of what’s going on throughout a particular period. It must also allow updating of schedules and allocation of tasks to specific individuals.