Construction projects are complex, with multiple teams and moving parts. Think about it. There are contractors, safety people, engineers, regulators, and more. Keeping track of everyone on the project and their tasks can be messy and confusing. However, this is the most critical part.
If you want to be able to deliver construction projects on time and within budget, you need to have efficient resource scheduling and planning skills. Resource scheduling is crucial for the success of any construction project, acting like the conductor of a complex orchestra, ensuring each element plays its part at the right time.
Why is it important to know about the industry? It will help you understand the magnitude of it and its complexities. Knowing the numbers also will help you pick the right software.
Here are some numbers that highlight the growth and lucrativeness of the construction sector:
The global construction market grew to $14,393.63 billion in 2022.
Since 2017, the industry has averaged a compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of 4.6%
The market is expected to grow to $18,819.04 billion in 2027 — that’s a rate of 5.5%.
By 2031, the market is predicted to reach $25,928 billion.
Factors driving the growth are rising urbanization, population growth, rising industrialization, and more support from global governments.
Numbers don’t lie, and the above figures also present much scope for other businesses tied to the construction sector. These statistics, however, depend on whether construction companies and projects can get the right talent and hold on to it. Let’s not forget that the construction market is one of the most labor-intensive industries. In the U.S., this segment employs over 8 million people.
This brings us back to the importance of having software that makes the process of identifying, scheduling, and managing construction resources smoother and more efficient. The industry might miss the overall growth estimations if there is a constant struggle to match resources to tasks.
Construction management software is a technology tool that streamlines the processes involved in construction projects, from planning and scheduling resources to managing costs and establishing communication channels. The software improves efficiency, reduces costs, and mitigates risks.
The construction management software has all the tools that make executing these large-scale, complex projects more manageable. Some of the top features of construction resource management software are:
Task management: This means the identification of tasks and the creation of task checklists. There are several ways to create master data for project tasks. The most commonly used methodology is the critical path method.
Time tracking: This part comes after task identification. In time tracking, the scheduler will allot specific times for each time. The software will capture how much time an individual takes per task.
Resource identification and scheduling: The software should be able to identify the best qualified and available candidate for each task. Most construction management tools and apps will have the capability to serve as a centralized dashboard of resources.
Project tracking metrics: It’s equally important to have tracking metrics. Look for features such as real-time dashboards to monitor a group’s performance. These tracking metrics can be in the form of visual Kanban or GANTT charts.
Project reporting: There are so many players in a construction project that it’s best to have a tool that allows you to create and share instant project updates. This will make communicating with contractors, vendors, engineers, and suppliers easier.
Document management: It’s easier to manage construction projects when all project-related documents are easily accessible by everyone involved. Sharing of documents via an online portal also improves communication and collaboration.
Budgeting: Besides delivering projects on time, staying within the budget is essential. Many construction management software comes with budgeting features like timesheets that allow team leaders and finance personnel to see cost per resource and other expenses.
Construction management software is like the backbone upon which projects can be successfully executed, time and time again. Here are some more advantages of investing in a construction project management tool:
Efficient resource utilization: The tool prevents over-allocation or underallocation of resources. With the software, one can plan when they need each resource. This prevents instances where workers are waiting for materials or tasks. It also optimizes the use of their time.
More cost control: When resources are inefficiently used, costs skyrocket, and one can expect some delays as well. Using a construction scheduling tool will minimize these issues. It will also help you stay within budget and avoid overspending. These extra expenses can dent project profits.
Improved project timelines: With the software, one can also create a realistic timeline for the project. The software helps to create not only a clear outline of tasks but also their sequence. Next, the tool identifies who would be the best for the job and when those people would be available. Lastly, all stakeholders can see who is assigned to critical jobs. This avoids any conflict over the use of resources.
Better quality control: Workers have the time and focus to complete tasks accurately when they aren’t overburdened. Additionally, the scheduling allows for proper planning of inspections and quality checks. When this is done throughout all project stages, the final quality of construction is better.
Increased safety: Accidents are less likely when the schedule is well-planned because there won't be conflicts between work crews. It also makes sure everyone gets the safety gear they need. One automatically creates a safer working space by outlining clear procedures and ensuring the availability of resources required for each task.
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Need help with which construction scheduling software you should pick for your construction firm? We understand this can be confusing. With so many options available in the market, how do you narrow down and find the right fit for your needs?
Panic not! We’ve done the legwork for you. Here is our list of 2024’s 14 best construction scheduling software in the market. We highlight each software’s top features, pricing scheme, and drawbacks. So you get everything you need to make an informed decision.
eRS, or eResource Scheduler is an enterprise resource management solution that almost all industries can use. Yes, even the construction market. This cloud-based tool is easily accessible by on-ground and remote teams, making it ideal for the sector where there are several outside vendors and contractors. The collaborative tool boasts all the construction project management features you would need–from building tasks and checklists to identifying resources and monitoring budget and resource usage.
Let’s get a deeper look into some of eRS’s top features:
Ability to create and manage project schedules, including tasks, durations, and deadlines from one screen.
Tools for visualizing the schedule include Gantt charts, calendars, and other visual diagrams.
Ensures realistic scheduling based on available resources.
Centralized databases with a powerful search engine to identify the right available resources.
All scheduling and changes occur in real time, giving everyone an insight into the project and task status.
Tools for creating and tracking project budgets.
Ability to track actual costs vs. estimated costs and identify cost variations.
The capacity planning module helps forecast future spending.
Easy integration with other finance apps to manage material costs, payroll, and vendor invoices.
Generate reports on project progress, costs, resource utilization, and other vital metrics.
Use data visualizations (charts, graphs) to gain insights and identify areas for improvement.
Enterprise-wide visibility of resources and projects
Resource scheduling
Custom data fields
Drag-and-drop scheduling
Measure resource utilization
Real-time time tracking that prevents time fraud
14-day free trial
Open REST APIs for easy integration and customization
Multiple schedule views
Instant email notifications of schedule changes
Flexible access rights so sensitive information is protected
Capture actual effort versus planned time
Set automatic approvals and workflows
Critical data points like resource utilization and cost variance
Responsive customer support
No free plan
The financial and timesheet modules are add-ons
No invoicing feature
eRS charges a flat monthly rate per resource. The scheduling module is $5 per resource per month. The timesheet is also priced at $5 per user, while the financial module costs $4 per user per month. If you opt you the annual plan you can levy some additional discount.
ProjectManager.com is an award-winning project management solution that can be used by hybrid and remote teams to improve collaboration and communication. The app can help you assign tasks and track their progress. Additionally, one can set project deadlines and ensure milestones are being met.
ProjectManager.com is a good option for smaller construction projects and teams. It’s a comprehensive solution that also provides visual reports and scheduling visibility.
Unlimited creation of tasks and subtasks
Centralized project dashboard
Set recurring tasks
Cloud-based
Multiple project views — GANTT, Sheet, and Calendar
Features project templates
Unlimited file storage
No free plan
Difficult to customize
No invoicing capability
Can’t set construction bids
ProjectManager.com offers three tiers of subscriptions. The Team plan is suitable for up to 10 users and 20 projects a year. It’s priced at $16 per user per month (billed monthly). The Business plan has no user limit and is robust enough to manage up to 100 projects annually. The Business module costs $28 per user per month.
Launched in 2006, BuilderTrend is a construction resource scheduling software that is best for residential construction companies and professionals. Homebuilders, remodelers, and specialty contractors make up the majority of BuilderTrend’s clients. The app has “must-have” project management features like GANTT charts and timesheets. It also provides construction-specific tools like a built-in CRM (Customer Relationship Manager) and the ability to receive contractor bid requests and project proposals.
User-friendly design and dashboard
Accessible on-the-go
Easy integration with the majority of accounting and payroll apps
Inclusion of messaging tools for teams to communicate
Superior customer support
Centralized scheduling calendar
Expensive
No free trial or plan
No cost tracking features
Limit on data entry and storage
Challenging to make project estimates
Long learning curve
BuilderTrend also offers three price plans. The entry-level plan, Essential, costs $199 per month. The Advance plan, which they say is their best value offer, is $499 monthly. The top-tier plan is $799 per month. They don’t offer a free trial, but you can get a free demo and decide if the software fits you.
If you are looking for construction scheduling software that serves a broader spectrum of construction projects and professionals, try Procore. General contractors, specialty contractors, and construction company owners are the primary end users of this construction scheduling solution. This cloud-based construction management app is designed to streamline projects from start to finish. So yes, a construction professional can use Procore to secure bids, make financial projections, maintain construction quality, and send the final invoice. Procore will minimize risks, improve deliverables, and protect profits.
End-to-end enterprise solution
Manage construction design, bids, resources, contractors, quality, and budget from one platform
Real-time financial data and reports
Document storage and sharing capabilities
AI that makes future planning more accurate
User-friendly design
An open platform makes for seamless integration
90% customer satisfaction rate
Unfortunately, Procore doesn’t disclose its pricing online. You can submit an online query to get a customized quotation from them.
CoConstruct is another renowned, smart, and popular construction employee scheduling software for custom home builders, modelers (3D designers), and small to medium-sized construction companies. It offers a wide range of functionalities like cost estimation, finance management, timesheets, and the creation of do-to lists. The software improves efficiencies and collaboration and reduces any excess costs.
Here are some of the top features of CoConstruct:
Track project costs, generate reports, and manage invoices and payments.
A client portal that gives access to essential project documentation and status updates.
A cost estimation module that creates accurate costs and allows to send and accept bids
Ability to develop end-to-end project schedules and break them into prioritized tasks
Easy mobile access
Streamlined workflows
Cloud-hosted platform
Maintenance-free application
Limited and difficult integrations
No free trial
The mobile version has several glitches and bugs
Poor user interface and difficult to navigate
CoConstruct is another software that doesn’t disclose pricing online. This is because it follows a quote-based pricing scheme. However, you can request a full demo of the product. This will help you learn about all the features and functionalities via a live session with the development team.
As you might guess from the name, Contractor Foreman is a construction management software designed to drive efficiencies in projects. Contractors from 75 countries currently use this tool to streamline their workflows, deliver projects on time, and manage their finances and resources. The software's intuitiveness and ease of use sets Contractor Foreman apart from its competitors. It’s particularly suited for small to medium-sized contractors.
These are some of Contractor Foreman’s most raved-about features:
Daily task logs that include all project details, including resources and materials used
Easy scheduling and sharing via GANTT charts
Ready to use project schedule templates
Kanban views
Bidding and Invoicing capabilities
Scaleable
Time tracking
Limited integration capacity
Too many features make it hard to navigate
Poor customer support
Contractor Foreman is one of the market's more affordable construction management tools. The basic paid version’s pricing starts at $49 per month. This version can be used by one user for unlimited project needs, which makes it ideal for a small or a single-person company. The company eases the onboarding process by offering a free one-hour training program. The Standard plan’s pricing is at $79 per month and accommodates up to three users. The most popular plan is Plus One, which costs $125 per month.
Smartsheet is a bona fide project scheduling and management software. However, it has all the capabilities that make it an investment-worthy construction scheduling tool. This online app empowers all types of teams to put their best foot forward. With Smartsheets, every member knows what tasks are being completed and by whom in real time.
Resources can be identified, assigned, and easily managed with Smartsheets. The software also can group various tasks by priority.
We read all the customer reviews about Smartsheets, and these are some of their most loved features:
Real-time view of projects
The dashboard is accessible anytime and from anywhere
Easily scalable and meets the requirements of any growing team or company
Intuitive interface
Easily import existing files and data from Excel, Microsoft Project, or Google Spreadsheets
Extensive library of pre-built template
Seamless integration with other project management and communication tools like Trello
Reporting features require manual entry and aren’t intuitive
Limited integrations with third-party apps
Slightly more expensive than other project management software
The free plan has minimal capabilities
The software has a long learning curve
Smartsheet offers a forever free plan, but as we mentioned earlier, the free plan has minimal features. The Pro plan costs $7 per user per month, and the Business plan starts at $25 per user per month. The Pro plan can work for teams of up to 10 users. If you want access to features like time tracking, automated workflows, and other administrative tools, then the Business plan is the subscription for you.
UDA’s ConstructionOnline is a web-based construction scheduling and project management tool designed for emerging construction companies like home builders, production builders, and remodelers. The all-in-one app allows you to schedule and track projects and resources through the entire project lifecycle. Over 850,000 construction professionals across 75 countries rely on ConstructionOnline to complete their projects successfully. Some of their most recognized customers are Ford, Dr. Pepper, Adidas, and Fiat.
UDA was one of the first pioneers in the construction scheduling software market. Over the years, they have continuously improved the platform, and some of their most noteworthy features are:
Identifying critical paths for projects
Centralized dashboard of resources and documents
Easy to view GANTT chart for identifying project progress
Drag and drop scheduling
Time tracking provides a bird’s-eye view of resources and task completion
Real-time reports on utilization, overtime hours, and time-charged by employees
Customizable calendar views
Quick integrations with external solutions like Oracle, Google Calendars, Microsoft Office, and SmartLink
There are some drawbacks to using ConstructionOnline. Below are customers’ top issues with the software:
Relies on Quickbooks for finance reporting
Doesn’t assign a job number to tasks
Poor dashboard layout
Better for small to medium-sized companies
Not scalable
The learning curve is challenging
Expensive
ConstructionOnline offers four pricing schemes for each customer group: residential, commercial, industrial, multi-family, and specialty constructors. For the residential group, the starting Pro package starts at $390 per month. The Team subscription plan costs $780 per month, while the Business plan is $1170 per month.
If you are a commercial builder, then the Pro package is priced at $525 per month, and the Team plan is $1050 per month. You can refer to their website for more pricing details.
Are you a niche or boutique contractor or designer who needs an all-in-one project management solution? Check out Houzz Pro. It’s one of the most popular software for individual contractors, interior designers, architects, and bath and kitchen remodelers who work one-on-one with their clients.
HouzzPro offers a variety of features:
Task management tool that allows you to create to-do lists, set milestones, and assign work to employees
Document management
Bid management
3D floor planning provides visual project plans to clients
Finance tools that allow you to accept upfront payments, request deposits, and schedule payments
Centralized lead management system
Marketing solutions like branded emails
Here are a few limitations or inconveniences of using HouzzPro:
The software can be slow and clunky at times
Many features might not be of value if you are just using it as a marketing or sales tool
Geared towards designers and not contractors
Like most other construction scheduling software, Houzz Pro offers four different subscription plans. The Starter scheme, which includes just their business management features, is priced at $85 per month. The Essential package is $129 per month, the Pro is $199, and the Ultimate package is $499. Use their 30-day free trial to identify all the features you need.
RedTeam offers various software solutions for the construction industry. For instance, RedTeam Go is a simple yet comprehensive construction management app designed to help small to mid-sized contractors. The software improves communication and collaboration and helps them manage their costs and project deadlines. RedTeam offers RedTeam Flex for larger commercial contractors that have complex workflows and large-scale projects. All their solutions automate redundant tasks and ensure cost and time savings.
RedTeam’s most applauded features and capabilities are:
User-friendly layout
GANTT scheduling that is accessible off-site
Automate and standardize workflows
Financial reporting
Ability to create bid proposals
Time capture capabilities
Real-time integration with Quickbooks and Microsoft Projects
Customizable reporting
Ability to invite clients to collaborate on project documents
Automatic reminders for crucial tasks
RedTeam Flex has many modules and features, which can take a while to learn and understand
High pricing
Software tends to freeze
Limited training and support from customer service
RedTeam’s pricing varies based on your product: RedTeam Go or RedTeam Flex. RedTeam Go’s Elastic plan is priced at $425 per month. The Fixed plan that is best for predictable construction work costs $2040. If you just want to streamline the construction bidding process, RedTeam’s Go Bidding solution is ideal. It costs $165 per month. You can also try RedTeam’s Go Bidding plan for a 30-day free trial.
As for RedTeam Flex, the standard subscription is $500 per month. Contact them for a customized quote for actual project values (APV) above $5 million.
One of the emerging construction scheduling software in the market is AutoDesk Construction Cloud. Their product, Build, is specifically designed for contractors. It will streamline workflows between the office and the actual construction site. One can also use it to assign and track tasks and monitor project performance. The developers tout it as software for teams of all sizes.
Centralized and digitized construction project schedules
Ability to link project documents, photos, and assets to the schedule
Powerful search to quickly identify resources and project schedules
Access through mobile
Predictive insights into resources required, costs, and quality issues
Standardized data collection forms for quality and safety
Easy integration with all other AutoDesk Construction Cloud products
Expensive technology investment
Difficult to navigate
Limited document management
Lack of customization options
Requires all collaborators to have access which drives the price point ever higher
AutoDesk Builder’s pricing has two tiers. You can opt for a subscription plan based on the number of users or contact them for a customized quote for unlimited users. The subscription plan starts at $1625 per year. They do offer a free trial, which would be wise to take advantage of. This way, you can gain first-hand experience with the software.
Jobber is a field service management solution that can be used for various industries and businesses. Although Jobber is not specifically designed for construction management, it can be used for that purpose. It’s a good option for smaller firms and contractors. The software’s user-friendly layout makes it a hit amongst other scheduling and resource management solutions. Contractors use Jobber to create schedules, bill clients, provide quotes, and store client and project data.
Even though Jobber is not a full-fledged construction management solution, some features that apply to the industry are:
Task management tools like Kanban boards
Ability to build daily task lists and logs
Schedule and track jobs
Inbuilt function to send estimates, invoice clients, and accept payments
No cap on the number of users
14-day free trial
While Jobber is a valuable tool, it lacks in the following areas:
No GANTT charts
Limited project status tracking
Poor ability to identify, plan, and allocate resources
Lacks specialized construction reporting
Pricing can become expensive as the business grows
Not scalable
Jobber has three pricing plans. The basic plan, known as Core, is $69 per month. Their most popular plan, Connect, is $169 per month. The Grow plan, which is their all-inclusive plan that includes sales and marketing tools, costs $349 per month.
Buildxact is construction scheduling software with GANTT charts to help manage projects on time and within budget. It also helps estimate jobs and order materials, which is vital for making construction schedules. Customers love the software’s price point, customer support, and ease of use. Residential builders and remodelers are the primary end users.
Here's a summary of Buildxact's main features:
Simple and flexible scheduling
Centralized scheduling
Project estimate templates
Client portal to access documents and project updates
Live price integration to get real-time pricing of materials
Integration with accounting apps like Quickbooks or Xero
Secure and centralized records and storage of customer data
Expense tracking
While Buildxact offers a comprehensive suite of features for residential construction management, it does have some potential drawbacks to consider:
One of the pricier options
Limited functionality and scalability for larger, more complex projects
Adjusting purchase orders is difficult
Buildxact has a flexible pricing model where you can opt for the plan that best suits your needs. The starting package is $133 per month, while their most popular plan is $222. These are the prices when you bill monthly; you can expect some discount if you pay annually.
If you're in the construction business, you should try BuildIT. It's a cloud-based scheduling management solution for small and midsize companies. The main features are construction scheduling, managing contacts, assigning tasks, organizing appointments, storing documents, and handling emails and notes. The app also permits the use of scheduling templates and allows you to customize user permissions.
Here are some features that customers love about this software:
Ability to track projects by GANTT charts, calendar, and list views
Share, assign, and reschedule tasks online
Automatic notification of any schedule changes
Library of schedule templates that can be customized
A centralized database of all resources and materials
Easy-to-use and learn
Free trial
Attractive pricing
Text-heavy documents take time to load
Built for smaller contractors
Limited integrations
BuildIt offers a single pricing plan with a monthly subscription fee of $32. It is a flat-rate pricing model. This means that the plan includes all the features and functionalities of BuildIt.
Construction scheduling systems offer a variety of tools and functionalities to streamline workflows, improve resource planning and utilization, and enhance project efficiency in the construction industry. Many different construction scheduling and management software solutions are available on the market. The best option for you will depend on the size and complexity of your projects and your budget.
While comparing software, know your needs and priorities. For instance, if you are tight on budget, eRS or BuiltIT might be the more attractive options. However, investing in ContractorForeman or one of the more prominent enterprise software might make more sense if you are a larger company with multiple high-value projects. Remember, the ideal system should fit your current needs and scale effectively as your business grows.
eRS is a comprehensive construction scheduling and resource management platform that can help you tackle the most complex projects. Work on your dream construction project. Book a consultation with our team today!
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