Construction software

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Construction software referes to a broad range of computer software applications designed for businesses in the construction, real estate development, civil engineering, and architecture industries. Applications function in the operations and management of construction projects, with modules in project management, materials and cost estimating, service and human resource management, and accounting. Construction software is developed as single-module specialty applications, or as a software suite, capable of performing tasks across several modules.

1 Construction Software Modules
2 See Also
3 External Links

[edit] Construction Software Modules

[edit] Project Management

Construction project management software manages various components of complex projects, including scheduling, communication, and resource allocation. Due to the complexity of construction projects and the large number of internal employees and subcontractors involved, construction project management software typically focuses on the contributions of individuals to the project's progress. Applications include the ability to assign components of a project to an individual or company, as well as the specifications and time frame necessary for completion. In addition, applications typically allow users to track the use of resources and to document changes in a project's costs, materials, or personnel.

To facilitate collaboration among several individuals or companies, construction project management software is often delivered as software as a service. This model allows for contributors to communicate and to manage the progress of the project over the world wide web via a hosted server.

[edit] Estimating

Construction estimating software aids the user in providing estimates of the costs, materials, and quantities necessary for construction projects. Applications typically require user input of a large number of parameters, such as building dimensions, materials specifications, and budgets, and then automate the process by which estimates are produced. Full reports of a project's total cost, cost per input, and cost for changes are generated to streamline the difficult and complex process of associating different materials and quantities with final project costs.

Estimating applications are often delivered with digitizers that incorporate various sensors to determine electronic blueprints. Users can implement digitizers to scan the architectural plans and output automated estimates of the materials and quantities necessary for construction. Minimal user input is required and the time required to generate estimates can be reduced when using digitizers.

[edit] Accounting

Construction accounting software provides specialized abilities to process financial transactions made by construction firms. Applications automate the processes of company payroll, accounts payable, and accounts receivable, with specialized functionality to handle the large amounts of third-party contractors associated with company finances. Applications allow users to track financial transactions and parameters of individual projects or components of a project, and are typically integrated into the purchase orders and agreements made by construction firms. Reporting of overhead, labor costs, project and change order costs, revenues, and margins is typically included in construction accounting applications.

[edit] Human Resource Management

Applications designed to facilitate the management of human resources for construction firms focus on two groups of individuals: internal employees and third-party contractors. This module typically provides the ability to document the tasks, performance, attendance, time employed, and benefits provided to internal employees. The tasks of external contractors can be managed as well, with the additional ability to document their past projects, agreements, and correspondence.

[edit] Service Management

Construction software also provides benefits in the management and administration of service-related functions and resources. Call management, customer service tracking and reporting, and dispatch control are generally integrated by the application into a dashboard to facilitate tracking a project across multiple management criteria. The allocation and use of equipment, tools, and other materials can also be tracked and managed using service management applications.