As we progress through 2024, the construction industry is experiencing transformative changes driven by advancements in technology and evolving project management practices. These trends promise to enhance efficiency, streamline operations, and foster innovation across all phases of construction projects. Here, we delve into the top trends shaping construction management this year and how leveraging comprehensive software solutions like Buildlogic can keep your projects ahead of the curve.
1. Digital Project Management Platforms
Digital project management platforms continue to revolutionise the construction industry by providing a centralised hub for all project-related activities. Buildlogic’s Project Management Software offers an integrated solution that encompasses all aspects of project management, from initial planning to final delivery. By utilising such platforms, construction managers can ensure better coordination, real-time updates, and enhanced collaboration among teams.
2. Advanced Contract Management
Efficient contract management is critical for the smooth execution of construction projects. We have seen an increased emphasis on sophisticated contract management systems. Buildlogic’s CONTRACTS & CONTRACT VARIATIONS module provides robust tools for managing contract details, tracking progress claims, and handling contract variations efficiently. These features help mitigate risks and ensure compliance with contractual obligations with Subcontractors.
The management of contract claims – with custom approval processes, contract variations and contract extensions of time are all managed within this module.
Your subcontractors can also have access to the Buildlogic Subbie Portal to input their claims directly including any updated copies of insurance certificates and expiry dates.
Claims to clients for Lump sum, Design and Construct, Construction Management or Cost Plus jobs are handled in HEAD CONTRACT PROGRESS CLAIMS. Once the payment is received in the accounting system Buildlogic will be updated, allowing the users to have up to date information without having to have direct access to the accounting system.
- Manage claims by trade
- Manage claims by stage
- Manage cost plus claims including the ability to download a zip file with all invoices attached to transactions in the claim
- Manage construction management claims
- Manage Design and Construct claims
3. Integrated Financial Management
Managing project finances is becoming more complex, necessitating integrated financial tools that can handle various financial aspects seamlessly. Buildlogic’s modules PURCHASE ORDERS, CONTRACTS & CONTRACT VARIATIONS, FORECASTING & REPORTING and CASHFLOW offer comprehensive financial management capabilities. These tools allow for precise budget tracking, cash flow forecast, and financial forecast management, ensuring projects stay within budget and financial health is maintained throughout the project lifecycle.
Commitments can be raised directly from the budget, imported from an accounting system, or free typed in – removing a lot of data entry. Purchase transactions can be pushed or pulled from the accounting system. The payment information will be automatically imported from the accounting system by one of the program’s back-end processes. This allows users to have up to date information without having to have direct access to the accounting system.
- Create from budget
- Import and push to accounting system
- Copy existing orders
- Manage procurement & Contracts
4. Enhanced Forecasting and Reporting
Accurate forecasting and detailed reporting are crucial for project success. Construction managers will increasingly rely on advanced forecasting and reporting tools to make informed decisions. Buildlogic’s FORECASTING AND REPORTING module provides real-time insights and detailed analytics, helping managers anticipate potential issues and make proactive adjustments to keep projects on track.
This module is made up of two components, forecasting and a comprehensive reporting module. Forecast data is updated each time a transaction is entered into Buildlogic allowing users to confidentially view real time budget v’s actual data with the added advantage of forecasting upcoming costs or budget overspends.
Forecast data can be entered at various levels including trade or at lower elemental levels. Details of transactions and budgets that make up forecasting summaries can be displayed from this screen by drilling down on the forecast data.
- View and enter data at different levels
- View and filter data by job or selected jobs
- Actual/Paid data is updated in real time from accounting system Sync
The reporting option in this module allows for detailed reporting across all functions within the software from Estimating to Budget vs Actual reporting in a job.
Many times, management just wants to view reports so there is a user licence for this module that allows management to run and view their own reports.
- Forecast Budget Vs Actuals
- Real time financial data
5. Mobile Integration
The construction industry is embracing mobile technology to enhance field operations. Buildlogic’s MOBILE FUNCTIONS module ensures that project managers and field workers can access crucial project data and updates on the go. Mobile integration enhances communication, speeds up decision-making, and ensures that on-site teams have the latest information at their fingertips, such as Timesheets, Diaries, Pre-Start, and Toolbox Talk. This also includes Site Supervisor functionality:
- Contractor Claim Request, change Request
- Extension of time Request
- General Request
- Progress Claim Request
- Purchase Order Request
- Request For Information
- Variation Request
- Workplace Incident
6. Request for Information (RFI) Automation
Handling Requests for Information (RFIs) efficiently can significantly impact project timelines. Automated RFI processes, like those offered by Buildlogic’s REQUEST FOR INFORMATION module, streamline the submission, tracking, and resolution of RFIs. This automation reduces delays and ensures that all stakeholders are informed and aligned.
7. Defect Management
Effective defect management is essential for maintaining quality and ensuring client satisfaction. Buildlogic’s DEFECTS REGISTER module provides a systematic approach to logging, tracking, and resolving defects. This approach promptly addresses any issues, maintaining the project’s quality standards and client trust. The Defect module allows you to raise and mark up defects on a plan. You can email the defect to the appropriate person, and the system logs all correspondence related to each defect.
8. Accurate Estimating
Accurate project estimation sets the foundation for successful project execution. Buildlogic’s ESTIMATING module helps construction managers develop cost estimates, ensuring better financial planning and resource allocation. This accuracy helps in securing contracts and managing client expectations effectively. The estimating function allows fast creation of quotes/proposals. Buildlogic Estimating imports from the following products:
- Import from Buildsoft/Cubit
- Import from Dindo
- CSV export/imports also available from CostX and directly from Excel
9. Visual Project Planning
Visual tools like Gantt charts are invaluable for project planning and tracking. Buildlogic’s GANTT CHARTS module allows for visual representation of project timelines, dependencies, and milestones. This visualisation aids in better project planning, monitoring progress, and identifying potential bottlenecks.
Build simple or complex workflows for one or multiple jobs so you can check resource allocations. You can use each job’s workflow as a template for future jobs, saving a lot of data entry work.
10. Flexible Adjustments and Transfers
Projects often require adjustments and transfers to address unforeseen changes. Buildlogic’s ADJUSTMENTS AND TRANSFERS module provides flexibility in managing these changes without disrupting the overall project flow. This adaptability ensures that projects remain agile and responsive to changing conditions.
11. Extension of Time Management
Managing extensions of time efficiently is critical for project timelines and contractual obligations. Buildlogic’s EXTENSIONS OF TIME module streamlines the process of requesting, approving, and documenting time extensions, ensuring compliance and minimising disputes.
EOTs allow users to build extensions of time requests and email documents to clients. Once the job is approved, the system automatically calculates the job completion dates based on non-working days (public holidays/RDOs). Then, you can click a button to access weather data for the job site. Consequently, this allows you to back up wet weather days with weather forecast data when creating the EOT.
- Get weather data for your job at the click of a button
- Quickly produce EOT request documentation
- Automatic calculation of completion and defect liability dates
The Australian construction industry in 2024 has seen significant advancements, driven by innovative technologies and improved management practices. By leveraging comprehensive construction management software like Buildlogic, you can stay ahead of these trends and manage your projects efficiently, effectively, and innovatively. By seamlessly integrating essential modules like Core, Head Contract Progress Claims, Contracts & Contract Variations, and more, Buildlogic not only offers a comprehensive solution but also effectively meets the evolving needs of construction management.
Stay ahead of the curve and enhance your construction projects by embracing these top trends and utilising the full potential of Buildlogic’s comprehensive suite of tools.
Why Buildlogic?
Buildlogic is an Australian software company committed to providing #realpeoplerealsupport. By investing in cutting-edge construction management software, you partner with a team that understands your local market and dedicates itself to your success. We tailor our comprehensive suite of modules specifically for the Australian construction industry, in other words, you will have all the tools you need to manage your projects efficiently and effectively.
Buildlogic offers personalised support from real people who are readily available to assist you every step of the way. Experience the difference with our Free Trial and see how Buildlogic can transform your construction management processes, boost your productivity, and drive innovation in your projects.
