Operations software is a new category, but it's gaining popularity quickly. Things change too fast in construction for accounting or estimating software to handle your operations.
Now more than ever, having a way to effectively manage your people and equipment is key to maximizing profitability out in the field - the one place you make and lose money.
What is construction operations software?
Construction operations software is a new type of software that helps heavy civil construction companies manage and improve their day-to-day field operations. Some of the most important features include:
- Field employee timecards and project forms
- Equipment location tracking
- Employee/crew scheduling
- Online equipment inspection forms, work orders, and PM management
- Project documentation & historical records
Who is this for?
Operations software is for contractors of all sizes who are dealing with inefficiencies within their operations. It’s specifically designed to support heavy civil contractors - earth movers, bridge builders, underground utility providers, etc.
The right operations software will benefit EVERYONE at your company:
Owners/Managers
- Coordinate equipment and people
- View executive reports and dashboards for informed decision making
- Improve communication and accountability
Equipment Managers
- Mobile-friendly access to equipment details
- Automated PM and work order management
- Notifications for down equipment and repair assignments
Schedulers/Dispatchers
- Schedule and notify crews with interactive texts
- Coordinate equipment moves
- Eliminate redundant scheduling phone calls
Operators/Laborers
- Easily view project details and see what tools are at the job
- Add photos and notes to the system from the field
- Access up-to-date equipment location information
Can it integrate with my other providers?
Yes! Many operations software providers can aggregate all your OEM and third-party telematics providers into one platform. This saves you time, as you’ll no longer need to log into several different portals to get the latest data.
For Accounting and ERP integrations, the industry standard is an import/export process that brings data between platforms, minimizing information errors and eliminating double data entry.
Does my team need experience using computers and software?
It depends. True operations software is built with the field in mind - the interface will feel familiar to even the most old-school, tech-averse employee on your team. However, other software options are designed primarily for office use. These programs can be more complex and require some experience using computers and software.
It’s important to find out if a software was built to be “field-first” or “office-first”, as this can really affect the adoption and overall effectiveness of the system.
Do I need to download an app and make sure it's up to date?
Some providers will offer an official app that you can download from an app store, while others host their system online as a “web-app”.
There are pros and cons to each:
Some users prefer traditional apps because they’re built with a stronger focus on mobile devices and sometimes allow for limited offline functionality.
On the other hand, the last thing your field employees should be worrying about is going into the app store every week to download a new update to the system.
Web-apps never require downloads or updates, so you'll always been using the latest version of the system. You can also “pin” a web-app to your home screen, making it indistinguishable from the rest of your apps.
What is the buying process like for operations software?
After the initial communications, the first step in buying operations software is usually an online demo of the software where providers can learn more about your needs and goals.
It’s common (and encouraged!) to get demos from multiple providers so you can compare features/benefits to see which will work best for your company’s specific needs.
On these demos, you’ll likely receive pricing based on different variables such as the size of your equipment fleet, your telematics usage, and how many employees would use the software.
Do we need to buy individual licenses?
This is one of the most important questions to ask on your search for the right operations software.
Some providers require a license for every user. This can be more cost effective if only a handful of people at your company would benefit from having the latest information at their fingertips.
Other providers will give you company-wide access to their platform. This way, everyone from owners to operators will be able to log in to the system and get the information they need, when they need it.
While these providers offer full access to the system for no extra cost, companies will often make it so that their employees can only view and edit exactly what they need to - no more, and no less.
If you’re deciding between two operations software providers – one with individual licenses, one with company-wide access – remember that you’re comparing apples to oranges. Beyond the initial cost, be sure to consider the value that comes with giving EVERYONE the information they need and creating a single source of truth at your company.
What does implementation look like?
Depending on the provider, implementation can take anywhere from a few days to several months. This should be a key point as you consider different options.
As you take demos with different providers, be sure to ask about their implementation process and timeline – you don’t want to get stuck with an expensive product that’s too cumbersome to get up and running.
How long will the training take?
Depending on the scope and complexity of your operations software, formal training may or may not be needed.
Platforms truly built as “operations-first” should be simple enough that users can jump right in and start getting value from the system on Day 1. Even if this is the case, some teams prefer to sit down for more structured training sessions to get everyone on the same page.
Another question you should be asking is this: “If I call the support team for help, what kind of service can I expect to receive?”
Lastly, some platforms will contain in-app “help videos” where users can get their questions answered without navigating out of the system.
These are all questions you should be sure to bring up in that initial demo with the provider.
Buying Operations Software: Your Next Steps
If you’re just beginning your search for a system to help streamline your operations, the best thing you can do is start exploring different options.
Seeing different platforms in action in a demo setting can help you determine what you like, what you don’t, and which system makes the most sense for your company’s needs and workflows.
Good luck as you continue your search!
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