Tuesday, December 17, 2013

All The Facts To Know About Architecture Project Management Software

By Jeannie Chapman


Effectively managing an architectural firm and practice is time consuming, especially when running multiple projects in an understaffed firm. It is also become imperative that projects be managed profitably and all billable hours captured and accounted for. This where investing in dedicated architecture project management software can be a big help as there are multiple benefits to switching.

It goes without saying that projects need to be completed on time using available resources. The key is to manage the projects as smoothly as possible and with the best application of resources possible. While most firms have incorporated some technology into their practice, many do not use purpose built software for the task and rely on spreadsheets, word processing and other less than suitable programs. Architecture project management software is the solution to bootstrapping systems together.

It also means that gaining proficiency with the system is relatively quick. This is not only for the managers who work within the system, but for the staff who need to interface and use the software as well. The entire program was designed in consultation with architectural firms, there is less training involved and employees, contractors and clients will be more apt to adopt the system.

The basis of all good software is to organize, coordinate and manage the team's tasks, deliverables and workload. These programs offer a variety of features to make this easy. Project managers can plan all aspects of the project with a simple interface, entering tasks, dependencies, resources, time and other important components. Once entered these programs generally use Gantt chart-type reporting to get a visual look at a project.

Embedded in the management aspect of these programs is resource tracking. This is an important component in today's marketplace where maximizing resources and billability is key to a firm's success and viability. With easy reporting tools the PM can judge an individual's workload and shift tasks and responsibilities accordingly. Most have built in tools to make communications to groups simple.

Another important feature of many of these programs is proposal and contract management. This simplifies the work flow for developing RFPs, submittals and any other key documents. Most allow for collaboration and provide version control so edits and inputs are not lost. This document management extends throughout the work, keeping track of things like addendums, change directives, contract changes, change orders all the way to the punch list.

Ideally all projects go according to plan, but of course this is not always the case. This is where reporting and analysis is important for improving profitability. Architecture project management software allows the PM and senior staff to perform detailed analysis on staffing, budgets and resource allocation. Most have numerous report templates, but customization is generally available too.

In today's competitive world, the best concepts and designs do not always lead to a successful architectural firm. Architecture project management software provides PMs with a solid foundation on which they can perform their job. It also takes the full burden off their shoulders and lets each resource be accountable for their own tasks, responsibilities and billability. Check out a demo or a free trial and you'll be amazed at the time savings benefits you will receive. You won't regret the switch to the new system and your firm will surely benefit.




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