5 Things You Should Know About Construction Scheduling Software
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The importance of construction scheduling software is often overlooked. In fact, the construction industry is notorious for being slow to embrace technology. Most seem to be content with traditional practices. After all, why fix what isn’t broken?
It can also be quite a shock to learn that software could be more efficient in scheduling construction than ourselves. However, the fact is, construction scheduling software has changed the game when it comes to managing construction projects so that you can accomplish more by doing less.
That said, here are the things you should know about them.
1. It Streamlines Operations Using Artificial Intelligence
Construction scheduling software involves the use of artificial intelligence to manage your company’s labor and resources more efficiently. It is done in such a way that every angle is calculated without putting any additional strain on your existing manpower.
We all know how simultaneous tasks are given in construction unlike in other industries. This can make it difficult to move forward onto another task particularly if one is codependent on the other. However, construction scheduling software would provide you with a big-picture view of things. Imagine seeing all your project’s current progress, pending tasks, and even completed ones, all at a glance.
This would easily show which tasks are a priority and which ones overlap in an organized manner so you won’t waste time combing through various spreadsheets and blueprints. It would certainly save you that much-needed time and effort. And in construction, time lost is money lost.
2. It Increases Workflow Efficiency
Having construction scheduling software means that once data is entered - which includes important deadlines and different phases of the project, the program manages itself for you. You will need to spend a bit of time inputting the data itself, yes, but once you do, you will find that managing your project will be a breeze.
Equipped with multiple calendars, a construction scheduling software reduces the likelihood of conflicts in a schedule such as accidentally scheduling the same team for two simultaneous construction jobs. Moreover, you can easily track each member’s progress to see if there are any who are underperforming and missing deadlines as well as those who stay on top of their assigned jobs.
This would allow project managers to better handle the team and improve their performance. Moreover, it allows room for flexibility in the event of sudden changes. It is customizable in the sense that it can easily make room for those sudden schedule changes. This allows you to stay right on time or at least come up with an alternative because everyone is already updated on the current situation, which in turn can help with construction recovery as this means a faster turnover of projects and better customer satisfaction.
3. Capable of Analytics and What-If Scenarios
Behind a great construction project lies proper planning. Proper planning requires anticipating possible problems that may arise on the construction site whether it involves a lack of equipment or perhaps it is safety issues with the site itself. Whatever it is, you have to be prepared for anything. However, it can be difficult to make a forecast that takes into account all the variables that could go wrong.
But, a construction scheduling software is capable of running simulations which will help improve planning. That way you can quickly see possible challenges and prepare for them accordingly, which will help avoid construction delays whether it be in the form of a lack of a construction permit or shortage of material. No one wants to go ahead with a project only to face an unforeseen obstacle on-site. This gives you time to come up with a solution or a contingency plan instead of thinking of one on the fly.
4. Allows Better Management of Budget and Resources
In the world of construction, time and resources are two of the most valuable factors that could make or break a project. The use of construction scheduling software would help manage that as it lets you track your budget as well as your resources. This will come in handy in anticipating cash flow.
For instance, it will be easier to send payment reminders whether it be for contractors or in the supply chain. This will also help ensure that the project stays within its allocated budget.
5. Seamless Integration and Real-Time Updates
What’s great about construction scheduling software is it provides greater accessibility to the people involved in the project. For one thing, the software could be integrated into your existing tech stack. There is cloud-based construction scheduling software that would be of great help to everyone on the team - from project managers to subcontractors, so you can monitor the project anytime, anywhere.
Plus, it produces real-time updates, which makes for easier decision-making. This means reducing trips back to the office when you can just look at your tablet or smartphone. It will also be easier to track your progress because it is reflected in real-time, which reduces downtime. No need to wait for an hour or so.
Employing construction scheduling software ensures smooth sailing on your construction projects. And while obstacles may occur now and then, they can be easily managed when you have the right tool by your side. Think of construction scheduling software, not as your enemy but as an opportunity to take advantage of and one that can work in your favor rather than against you.