Construction project management software is a powerful tool in organizing and following the development of a project, helping both project managers and teams. With the assistance of a construction project management software, you can easily create sound project plans, estimate the costs of a project and manage the budget, allocate resources, track work progress or analyze the workload.
There are several types of construction project management software, according to the different needs and requirements. It can be a desktop application, implemented as a program that runs on the desktop of each user; typically, a desktop construction project management software has the most responsive and graphically intense style of interface. Generally, desktop applications store their data in a file, however some store their data in a central database.
The web-based construction project management software is implemented as a web application, which can be accessed through an intranet or an extranet, by means of a web browser. Its characteristics are typical features of web applications:
- only one software version and installation to maintain;
- easy access-control;
- data are stored in a central database;
- can be accessed from any computer, without installing ay software on each user’s computer;
- multi-user;
However, it also includes the disadvantages of web applications: It generally responds slower than desktop applications, and the project information is available only if the user or server is online.
Another classification of construction project management software can be made between single project and multi project versions:
By using the single project version of construction project management software you will build your work breakdown structure, manage task properties (costs, constraints), assign resources to tasks, define project resource and specific working time for each human resource, view over-allocated resources or resources that have worked overtime, or follow the task process, marking its completion value (x% complete). Its project guide will assist you step-by-step, with simple explanations, and you will be able to import from Microsoft Project or export to Microsoft Project and Microsoft Excel. This version of construction project management software provides an easy o use Grantt Chart, printable reports and a cross-platform, which makes it suitable for all major operating systems: Windows, Mac OS X, Linux or other Java enabled platform).
However, the single project version will not provide shared resources or links between tasks from different projects. If you need such features, opt for the multi project version of construction project management software.
The multi project management is an extra feature of construction project management software, representing a great alternative to Microsoft Project. It is also supported by various platforms (Windows, Mac OS X, Linux and others), comprises all the features of the single project version, but in addition to the Grantt Chart it has a Work Breakdown Structure (WBS) for multiple simultaneous projects, sharing resources between them.
Construction project management software can become a valuable asset, helping you complete your projects on time and on budget. It will allow you to keep your resources and finances over control, notifying you when you have over-allocated resources or critical issues, provides mechanisms for realistic cost estimates, as well as a detailed cash-flow screening for tasks and resources. It is easy to handle, access and control, and it will definitely make your project more organized and easier to manage. You can search online for available construction project management software, and use the trial versions to find the one that meets best your needs and expectations.
