Anyone in the construction business knows that there are a million and one things to keep track of at any given time. From material delivery schedules to employee hours worked to project deadlines, it’s easy to feel like you’re constantly playing catch-up. If you’re looking for ways to stay on top of your construction projects, read for some helpful tips.
Construction Business Management Software
One of the best ways to keep track of your construction projects is by using business management software specifically designed for the construction industry. This software can help you with everything from project scheduling and budgeting to material ordering and invoicing.
Construction business management software can help construction administrative assistants keep construction projects running smoothly. If you haven’t already, consider investing in your company’s software. Also, if you are not at the construction site always, it allows you to connect. This is especially vital since you’ll want to keep an eye on what’s happening at the site. The program also aids collaboration by allowing for simple documents, files, and information sharing with your team.
Additionally, many construction business management software programs offer GPS time tracking, punch clock functionality, and job site GPS mapping, which can be extremely useful for managing your crew and keeping your projects on schedule.
Construction Project Tracking Templates
If you don’t want to invest in construction management software, another option is to use one of the many free construction project tracking templates available online. These templates can be easily customized to fit your specific needs and requirements, ranging from simple Excel spreadsheet templates to more complex Project Management Professional (PMP) templates.
These templates allow construction project timeline tracking, the creation of a construction work breakdown structure, and the ability to track project progress and performance. Additionally, construction project tracking templates can help you identify potential risks early on and ensure that your project is completed within the specified time frame. Construction project tracking templates can be found for free online and are a great way to stay on top of your construction projects without breaking the bank.
While construction business management software will offer more comprehensive features, construction project tracking templates are a great option for those on a tight budget since they are free and can be easily customized to fit your needs.
Construction Daily Logs
In addition to using software or templates, another helpful way to stay on top of your construction projects is by maintaining daily logs. Construction daily logs are records of what happened on the job site, including weather conditions, work completed, the material delivered, safety issues, etc.
Daily construction logs help you stay on top of what’s going on at the job site and serve as a valuable reference for when things go wrong. For example, if there is a dispute with a contractor or supplier, you can refer back to your construction daily log to see what happened.
Construction daily logs are easy to create and can be done with something as simple as a notebook or construction log template. Be sure to have your construction crew members update the log daily to have an accurate record of what’s going on at the job site.
These reports serve as a way of easily communicating progress back to clients or construction managers. Additionally, many construction business management software programs offer construction daily report features.
Keeping a daily log can help you identify potential issues early on and ensure that your projects stay on track. Plus, if there are ever any queries or disputes about what occurred on a specific day, you’ll have a written record to refer to. It’s also crucial since clients aren’t always aware of the construction process and require explanations for why things are taking so long. The daily log may assist contractors by allowing them to explain construction methods and keep customers updated on progress.
Stay Organized and on Top of Your Construction Projects
Staying organized can become a challenge if you are juggling one too many projects at a time. It is essential to have a system in place that allows you to track your progress and manage your crew effectively. You can start by managing your bid. The first thing you provide potential contractors on any project is a bid. Like with art, it’s often said that the devil is in the details regarding these bids. The more specific your scope of work is, the better bidders can be at giving you an accurate estimate.
You also want to compare bids side-by-side from different sub-contractors before deciding on who to move forward with so that you’re confident you’re collaborating with the right team for your needs and goals.
It is also essential to stay within the budget you set for your project. Using a construction budget template, you can track income and expenses and ensure you’re sticking to your budget. Additionally, schedule progress milestones so everyone knows what needs to be accomplished and when it should happen.
Conclusion
There are a variety of different ways that you can keep track of your construction projects to ensure that they stay on schedule and within budget. Implementing one or more of these methods can help you stay organized and avoid potential problems, from using business management software or templates to keeping daily logs.
