Preconstruction Software Explained: What It Is and Why It Matters

Although the preconstruction phase is often overshadowed by the excitement of groundbreaking and building, the early planning stages of a project serve as the foundation for successful completion. During this initial phase, ideas and drawings are formed into firm plans for the new project, including ideas of how to manage risks and pull off a quality project within the allotted budget.

Preconstruction software can help make the most of the planning activities that happen before contractors break ground, improving accuracy, efficiency and communication during various tasks.

This article will discuss the importance of a well-performed preconstruction phase, what preconstruction software does and what features the best digital tools offer to make the most of this early construction activity.

What is preconstruction software?

Preconstruction software is a suite of digital tools designed to optimize the planning and preparatory stages of a construction project.

It may include applications that assist in estimating costs, managing bids, conducting takeoffs, distributing plans and coordinating teams, plus improving the efficiency and accuracy of these tasks.

Who uses preconstruction software?

Preconstruction software can assist general contractors, subcontractors, architects and project managers who seek to improve their planning processes.

These digital tools assist construction leaders in planning effectively, which can result in projects are completed on time and within budget.

Why the Preconstruction Phase Matters

The preconstruction phase is the backbone of any construction project. It involves decisions that set the trajectory for the entire project, like designing budgets, schedules and allocating resources.

Effective preconstruction planning mitigates risks, and identifies potential challenges so they can be managed upfront. It establishes a clear roadmap for the construction to come.

The Core Workflows Preconstruction Software Supports

Software for the preconstruction phase is designed to improve essential workflows for successful project planning, laying a solid foundation for the construction process.

Estimating

Construction estimating is the calculation of all costs associated with performing an upcoming project. The cost estimate is used for project feasibility, bidding and resource allocation among many other things, so it needs to be as accurate as possible.

Preconstruction software automates this process, using historical data and sophisticated algorithms to help estimators do their work faster and more accurately.

Bid Management

Project bids are key to winning new work, and successful contractors do their best to follow the exact timelines and formats owners provide. But contractors often win one in ten of the projects they bid, so they may be sending out multiple bids in a short period of time. Software can help keep ongoing bids straight, so teams can bid effectively and win more work.

Takeoffs

Takeoffs use construction plans to calculate the materials a contractor will need to complete a project. Digital takeoffs replace manual quantity calculations, allowing for faster and more accurate measurement of materials needed.

What are the benefits of preconstruction software?

Preconstruction software significantly enhances project planning and execution, ultimately leading to more efficient and successful construction projects.

Team Coordination

Preconstruction software provides a central spot for all project information, including up-to-date plans and documents. This kind of access allows for more collaboration by keeping all stakeholders aligned and informed throughout the planning process.

Improved Accuracy

With access to past project information and timely construction cost databases, preconstruction software can help construction leaders gather all the information they need to create more accurate takeoffs and estimates, schedule better, and assist in creating the best plan for the project ahead.

Reduce Risk with Standardized Workflows

When teams use preconstruction software, it helps them to standardize workflows, creating consistent, repeatable processes. These protocols make everything more efficient and work to reduce the likelihood of errors and miscommunication because everyone knows what to expect, when to expect it and where to look for the information.

Further, workflows built into software often include risk assessment tools that help identify potential problems early on. By addressing these risks proactively, the software reduces the likelihood of bigger problems during construction.

Smoother Transition Between Preconstruction to Execution

As the construction phase begins, the preconstruction team is busy finalizing design plans, making sure all permits are in place, and getting sure all contractors are in place to begin site work. General contractors are in the process of buyout, getting contracts in place with their subcontractors in preparation for the construction phase.

Preconstruction software facilitates a seamless handover from planning to execution, ensuring that the construction phase begins smoothly and efficiently by storing planning documents, designs and specifications together for easy access and assisting in resource and workforce allocation plans.

What features should teams look for in preconstruction software?

Along with all of the workflows above, preconstruction software should help construction leaders access essential information that will help them to make smarter decisions.

Here are some key features of preconstruction software that can help make the most of this phase in construction.

Version Control

The key to a centralized platform is that it allows a number of collaborators access to project information. That also means there may be a lot of fingers in the project pie. Make sure that preconstruction software offers version control to track the changes made on construction documents to maintain a consistent and up-to-date document library.

Historical Cost Data

Access to historical cost data allows for a look into actual costs that took place in the real world, instead of best-case imaginings. Real numbers can help produce more accurate estimations and budgeting and uncover inefficiencies that can inform future decisions.

Integration

Taking on a new software product should improve both efficiency and accuracy throughout an entire project. That means individual products need to work together, sharing information to optimize every process. Look for software that integrates with other tools and systems used in your organization to help with seamless data flow and eliminate repeated manual data entry points.

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A Solid Foundation for Successful Construction Projects

Preconstruction software offers tools that enhance planning, coordination and execution on construction projects. Embracing an integrated, intuitive and accessible preconstruction software can help contractors work toward well-planned and efficient projects, making it easier to meet budgets, keep on schedule and reduce the overall project risk. 

The best preconstruction software will offer intuitive, mobile-friendly products that integrate within an organization’s tech stack to make information sharing easier and help the whole process go more smoothly.

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