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Research synthesis
on construction software
on construction software
Construction software is categorized by phase; some programs can be used across multiple phases, fostering an integrated process. We assess the available integrations, key insights, advantages and disadvantages for each, and a recommendation.
Construction process
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1. Sales phase
Procore
Integrations: Salesforce, QuickBooks, Sage 300
Key Insights: Procore offers robust project management features that streamline sales processes by integrating CRM and accounting software.
Key Insights: Procore offers robust project management features that streamline sales processes by integrating CRM and accounting software.
Pro: Comprehensive project tracking and reporting.
Con: It can be expensive for small businesses.
Con: It can be expensive for small businesses.
Buildertrend
Integrations: QuickBooks, Xero, Houzz Pro
Key Insights: Buildertrend simplifies sales with lead management and customer relationship tools.
Pro: User-friendly interface.
Con: Limited customization options.
Key Insights: Buildertrend simplifies sales with lead management and customer relationship tools.
Pro: User-friendly interface.
Con: Limited customization options.
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2. Design phase
Autodesk Construction Cloud
Integrations: Revit, AutoCAD, Navisworks
Key Insights: A comprehensive design tool suite enhances collaboration and design accuracy.
Pro: Seamless integration with Autodesk design tools.
Con: Steep learning curve for new users.
Key Insights: A comprehensive design tool suite enhances collaboration and design accuracy.
Pro: Seamless integration with Autodesk design tools.
Con: Steep learning curve for new users.
SketchUp created by Trimble
Integrations: Revit, AutoCAD, V-Ray
Key Insights: Known for its ease of use and flexibility in creating 3D models.
Pro: Intuitive design interface.
Con: Limited advanced modelling features compared to competitors.
Key Insights: Known for its ease of use and flexibility in creating 3D models.
Pro: Intuitive design interface.
Con: Limited advanced modelling features compared to competitors.
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3. Logistics & procurement phase
Oracle (Smart Construction Platform)
Integrations: Oracle ERP, Primavera
Key Insights: Offers comprehensive logistics and procurement management, enhancing supply chain efficiency.
Pro: Strong data analytics capabilities.
Con: Complex setup and configuration.
Key Insights: Offers comprehensive logistics and procurement management, enhancing supply chain efficiency.
Pro: Strong data analytics capabilities.
Con: Complex setup and configuration.
Trimble
Integrations: SketchUp, Tekla, AutoCAD
Key Insights: Provides tools for efficient logistics planning and procurement management.
Pro: Advanced geospatial capabilities.
Con: High cost of implementation.
Key Insights: Provides tools for efficient logistics planning and procurement management.
Pro: Advanced geospatial capabilities.
Con: High cost of implementation.
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4. Pre-construction
Microsoft Project
Integrations: Office 365, SharePoint, Power BI
Key Insights: Facilitates pre-construction planning with robust scheduling and resource management tools.
Pro: Excellent integration with the Microsoft ecosystem.
Con: It can be overwhelming for new users.
Key Insights: Facilitates pre-construction planning with robust scheduling and resource management tools.
Pro: Excellent integration with the Microsoft ecosystem.
Con: It can be overwhelming for new users.
Vectorworks
Integrations: AutoCAD, Revit, SketchUp
Key Insights: Offers robust pre-construction design and planning capabilities.
Pro: Versatile design tools.
Con: Limited collaboration features.
Key Insights: Offers robust pre-construction design and planning capabilities.
Pro: Versatile design tools.
Con: Limited collaboration features.
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6. Post-construction
Oracle (Primavera)
Integrations: Oracle ERP, SAP
Key Insights: Offers detailed project closeout and post-construction analysis tools.
Pro: Comprehensive project lifecycle management.
Con: Requires extensive training.
Key Insights: Offers detailed project closeout and post-construction analysis tools.
Pro: Comprehensive project lifecycle management.
Con: Requires extensive training.
Nialli
Integrations: Microsoft Teams, Zoom, Slack
Key Insights: Emphasizes post-construction collaboration and communication.
Pro: Improves team collaboration.
Con: Limited to communication features.
Key Insights: Emphasizes post-construction collaboration and communication.
Pro: Improves team collaboration.
Con: Limited to communication features.
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Recommended Software:
Procore
Due to its comprehensive suite of tools covering the entire construction lifecycle, from sales to post-construction. Its strong integration capabilities and mobile support make it versatile for construction professionals seeking a comprehensive end-to-end platform. Despite its cost, its value in terms of efficiency and collaboration justifies the investment for medium to large enterprises.
