As a construction manager, it is important to purchase the correct system for your business needs.

In this article you’ll learn 10 important tips before selecting a Construction Scheduling software.

Because of their aggressive marketing, some construction scheduler software providers may claim they are providing you with all the services and facilities needed by your business.

But be careful, not everything is what it seems to be.

It’s like buying a car, there are many choices available but they’re good reliable cars and others that break down regularly because of electrical or mechanical issues.

This article focuses on what matters most in purchasing an project scheduling software.

Its main features and benefits that actually matter from a business perspective.

10 questions you need to ask before selecting a construction scheduling software

1. How do we rank the importance of our needs and wants?

Before jumping straight in and getting the first product you come across, you need to know exactly what you want from such a system.

Answer this question: “How important is this construction scheduling app to my project?”

If your level of importance increases then narrow down your selection by taking into consideration additional tips mentioned in this article.

A simple example: if there are two similar construction project software available but one has a specific functionality that better fits your needs while the other doesn’t, you would choose the first one.

2. How long do we need this system?

This is an important question because if you are looking to use it for only a month or two then you probably don’t need anything complicated.

You need something with minimum features and simplicity instead.  

On the other hand, if you are planning to use it for many years then think about getting more powerful options with additional settings and specifications which will allow for future upgrades.

As well as maintenance flexibility in case any point in time you are not contented with current software version capabilities or with its technical support service, etcetera.

3. How often does our business change?

This is also an important question you need to ask.

It is because if your business changes frequently and you want a system that can be easily configurable and flexible, then you should choose a more advanced product with additional features and specifications.

Alternatively, if your business is stable and has low flexibility requirements, you should save some money by purchasing a less expensive solution without any additional features.

It will save you budget at the same time.

4. What particular set of services or facilities do we need?

This is another very important question related to construction scheduling software selection process.

If you don’t have much knowledge about this industry’s service offerings, here are some examples.

An example of a simple one would be a time tracking feature that allows you to record time spent on various projects throughout the day.

On the other hand, a complex one would be a project management system that helps you maintain your project’s progress report while also providing you with many specific reports related to every aspect of your business.

5. Do we need it for ourselves or for our company?

This is another important thing to take into consideration before purchasing any kind of product or service.

Because if you are an individual who doesn’t have limited funds at your disposal, then go ahead and get what offers more facilities and additional services.

But if you are working in construction industry as employee number five hundred forty-two in this giant corporation then think about getting something that has minimum features but still gets the job done.

6. What is our budget?

This question should be easy to answer, right?

Everyone knows how much capital they have at their disposal.

But what you need to keep in mind while answering this question is whether your accounting team will approve of all your purchases or not.

At the end of the day if the software will help to construction save time and costs then it should be seen as an investment instead of just an expense.

7. What is our business size?

Bigger construction companies have more needs and requirements than smaller ones do.

Therefore, you will need to get something that suits your specific company size rather than the industry alone.  

But what if your business begins to grow?

Then it’s time to think about getting a construction scheduler app to make things easier as your company scales.

8. Are there any particular features or specifications that we want in a software solution but can’t find them anywhere?

Before going with any software vendor make sure their features will solve the most important problems you’re encountering.

Tell them your requirements and make sure prioritize the most critical ones to your constriction project.

If they can’t meet those requirements then move on and continue your search.

9. How much support do we require?

This question refers to how long it takes before your issues are resolved and when they usually get back to you with an answer.

If you want all your problems fixed in half an hour at any time, then go with a premium product that offers highly skilled customer services.

But if you really don’t care about getting answers in just 10 minutes or even in one week, then consider purchasing something less expensive than this one.

A service desk ticketing system will be more than enough.

10. Is there anything else related to these questions that we would like to add?

There are so many additional questions to ask before construction scheduling software.

But the key is not necessarily finding answers for them all but at least trying your best to think about these ten questions before making any decision.

And finally, do some research.

Find out what software other construction firms are using.

Check their specifications and their prices, compare results with other similar softwares that you have already tried or want to try in near future then make a decision.

This should be an easy process if only you give it some time and focus on getting answers for those few questions covered earlier.

And please, avoid falling into the trap of marketing propaganda.