Construction companies have complex operations, requiring them to manage large volumes of data in real-time. This ensures projects arrive on time and within budget. That’s where Enterprise Resource Planning (ERP) software comes in. ERP is a suite of integrated applications designed to manage core business processes such as accounting, procurement, project management, and human resources. With the right ERP software, construction companies can streamline their operations, reduce costs, and increase profitability. Here’s a list of the top ERP software solutions available for construction companies, including their features, pros, and cons. To learn even more about EPR software for construction companies, continue reading online.
What is Construction EPR Software?
Construction ERP (Enterprise Resource Planning) software is a type of software solution that integrates all the core business processes in construction. This includes finance, accounting, project management, inventory management, procurement, and HR management. It provides companies with a centralized platform that streamlines business processes, eliminates redundancies, and provides real-time visibility into operations.
The key features of construction ERP software include cost estimating, project planning and scheduling, job costing, contract management, change management, document management, and accounting. By having all these functionalities in a single system, construction ERP software enables construction companies to improve operational efficiency, increase collaboration, and enhance decision-making. With the right construction ERP software, construction companies can reduce manual data entry, eliminate data silos, and gain insights into project performance and profitability.
Acumatica
Acumatica is an SaaS-based ERP solution that provides reporting and design tools for companies. Although the product was primarily designed for manufacturing and distribution companies, it is still useful for construction companies, notes ArchDesk. The software offers features for inventory management, financial reporting, payroll, and billing.
This ERP software enables users to monitor data in real-time and customize the product to suit their company’s specific requirements, explains the source. ERP Focus also adds that this platform enables seamless communication and information sharing between staff and subcontractors across different devices, including phones, tablets, and PCs. Their financial system serves as a single source of accurate information. This makes it easier to manage finances, track expenses, and ensure the accuracy of project costs.
Microsoft Dynamics
Microsoft Dynamics 365 Business Central is a comprehensive ERP solution that empowers construction companies to oversee and manage every aspect of their business using a single platform, explains Forbes Advisor. With support for popular mobile platforms and user experiences tailored to different roles, workers can be productive whether in the office, on the field, or on-the-go. Additionally, the source adds that its robust business intelligence and workflow automation capabilities ensure projects remain on schedule.
The ERP allows construction companies to effectively coordinate labor, materials, and equipment, notes the source. It features real-time resource scheduling capabilities that consider factors such as skill and ability, ensuring that everyone and everything is in the right place at the right time. Plus, Forbes Advisor says real-time data monitoring and workflow automation functionalities enable automatic replenishment of tools, materials, and parts on-site, eliminating any delays.
One notable downside highlighted by the source is that software integrations are not included in the base package and require additional costs.
Viewpoint Vista
Viewpoint Vista is an effective enterprise resource planning solution designed for construction companies. Its features include accounting, project management, and human resource management. All of these features enable the integration of the most essential components of a construction business, explains ArchDesk.
The software offers deep integration with accounting and project management. It provides invaluable insights into revenue and cost management by helping keep projects within budget and prevent cost overruns. ERP Focus adds that it can integrate with Trimble instruments, including laser and optical measurement and GPS systems. This feature can streamline construction work and help companies deliver projects more efficiently.
Epicor Prophet 21
Epicor Prophet 21 is most useful for construction supply companies thanks to its inventory and supply chain management capabilities. It allows construction supply companies to predict demand and create automated inventory replenishment models, says Forbes Advisor. This ensures they always have the right amount of products available. It also enables construction supply companies to automate order fulfillment, launch their e-commerce platform, and support electronic payments, adds the source. And last but not least, it simplifies quote and order management.
Epicor provides contractors with on-demand access to view quotes, order products, and pay bills. According to Forbes Advisor, its user experience is easy to navigate. This makes it an accessible option for those who may not have experience with ERP systems. However, HR management functionality is lacking compared to other construction ERPs on this list. Forbes Advisor’s expert score rates its value for money as fair.
Sage
Timberline is a construction ERP system with a long history, dating back to the 1980s, says ERP Focus. Today, it is part of the Sage family of products, specifically Sage 300. This product was designed for real estate and construction businesses. It includes features for cost estimating, project management, finance and accounting, document management, and service management, notes the source.
Sage 100 is another ERP system from the same provider for contractors. According to ERP Focus, with this software contractors can estimate jobs, submit bids, receive contracts, and manage projects, including tracking costs and cash flow until completion.