Executive Dashboards in Construction Software

Most construction software systems are designed to be used in “Enterprise” configurations, meaning they usually include executive dashboard modules aimed at giving executives a quick view of every area of operations.  Typically, this can be done in real time.

These dashboards serve a very specific purpose – top level execs do not have the time to spend looking at reports full of numerous confusing details.  Instead, they need a report or module that can be their “one stop shop” for all primary business indicators.  If they notice any problems with the key indicators (which can be customized for each business or kept at software presets) they will then have the ability to “drill down” to the real data and identify the problem if they feel the need.

For example, C-Level executives may only need to see the basics of the P&L and other reports – things like sales figures, monthly comparisons, current market data, and maybe even competitor positions.  In other words, the things most pertinent towards making the most effective high level decisions.

Moving down the chain of command, executives and managers at mid levels may need to see the data in a bit more detail, such as which projects are impacting the particular indicators.  They may also benefit from dashboards that break the data down to each business segment that reports to them so they can choose where their time and expertise is best spent.

Suffice it to say, different levels of management will want different sets of reports.  In each case, the report should have the indicators that each manager is most concerned about without having so much information that the crucial data is difficult to discern.

Just because a construction company makes money by digging in the dirt, they should not be limited in their ability to have a clear overview of their entire business operations at all time.  This is the benefit of the customizable, real-time executive dashboards available in many construction management software packages.

If the software that you are currently using does not have a dashboard feature, rest assured that there are numerous third party applications that will interface with most construction accounting software packages on the market.  In fact, some can be so seamlessly integrated that they appear to be standard equipment.

Finally, it is worth noting that these dashboards and the decision making that they facilitate are only as good as the data that is put in to the system by the end users.  If garbage is put in to the system, garbage will come out.  Therefore, as always, I stress the importance of thorough and frequent end-user training for all companies that use industry-specific construction software.

Construction Software Causes for Change

At some point in time, every construction company begins to realize that their current construction software isn’t keeping up with their needs.  Over time, new processes are developed, new technology is implemented, and companies begin to have needs that their current software cannot meet.  As such, they begin to shop around for something newer, more powerful, and easier to use.

To help make the most out of your next purchase, I’ve composed this article that discusses the most common problems that companies experience that lead to changing software.  When looking at new construction management softare, make sure you keep these things in mind so that you don’t find yourself needing new software again in 6 months.

Functionality Problems: Perhaps the construction management software doesn’t offer the functions that are needed or the company has dramatically changed their processes and procedures such that new functionality is needed.  If the software you have or are considering is very rigid and not capable of adapting to changes, you’ll be forced to either find new software or delay making the necessary procedural changes.

Maintenance Costs: Improper or inappropriate data input can create all kinds of problems in a software system.  Sketchy reports, inaccurate statistics, and unnecessary frustration will result.  This leads to a need for continuous maintenance that can get expensive over time, or a sketchy workaround and manual manipulation of data that takes power from the system and takes valuable time.  Therefore, be sure to look in to how much it will cost to keep your system up to speed.  If it is too expensive, you’ll be shopping around for new software sooner than you’d like.

Impatience on the Part of Staff: When companies have to wait for accurate information (which can be a result of numerous factors), they often become impatient and feel that new software is needed.  When researching and installing new software, take the time to ensure that those issues are dealt with proactively.

Level of Vendor Support: It would be great if all construction accounting software performed perfectly from the instant that it is implemented to the day that it is replaced, but we all know this is not the case.  Therefore, the amount of support available from the vendor becomes extremely important.  If you buy software from a vendor with lackluster support, you may quickly find yourself searching for a new solution where you will get the support you need.  As such, researching the vendor becomes as important as researching the software itself.

On the other hand, there are countless examples of companies that think they need new software when the reality is that they simply aren’t using their current software properly.  End-users (those responsible for data input) must be thoroughly trained and constantly reminded about the importance of inputting accurate and honest data in to the system at all times.  If they begin to cut corners, your system will quickly become less functional and more troublesome to use, adding less value to your ongoing operations.