Many architectural firms are still using generic project management programs to run things. Instead of adapting the firm's processes and procedures to the program, it is well worth trying a specific architecture project management software. These type of programs not only help successful manage the work, but provide document management and powerful analysis tools to help run things profitably.
Many firms piece together email, generic pm programs, spreadsheets, documents and a shared drive to manage things. And while this will get you by, you will not be best utilizing resources. Specifically designed architecture project management software blends together all the key components of the these programs into one easy to use interface. Since it is designed with architects in mind, the workflow, terminology and reporting are all tailored to the industry so there is little downtime in switching to the system.
Using specific software means that there is a very quick learning curve. All terminology, reports, templates are specific to the needs of a professional architectural firm. They are designed through close consultation with architects and staff who have real-world experience. This makes things simple, intuitive and much easier to learn. This also means training staff is easier, which means the company will more quickly adopt using the new system.
The basis of all good software is to organize, coordinate and manage the team's tasks, deliverables and workload. These programs offer a variety of features to make this easy. Project managers can plan all aspects of the project with a simple interface, entering tasks, dependencies, resources, time and other important components. Once entered these programs generally use Gantt chart-type reporting to get a visual look at a project.
Another important aspect is resource tracking. With all firm's emphasizing the maximization of resources and billable hours, it is imperative that the PM have quick access to resource allocation. These tools have many different reports that allow quick analysis of an individual's workload. It is also easy to spot where certain tasks need more attention and shift resources accordingly.
One of the things that makes this software unique for the industry is the document managing abilities. Document workflow lets you track things throughout the life of projects, from initial RFP to proposal to punch list. Instead of emailing documents, the firm can collaborate, and managing changes and versions is integrated into the program. Some feature outside collaboration tools as well so clients can review, change and upload docs.
Ideally all projects go according to plan, but of course this is not always the case. This is where reporting and analysis is important for improving profitability. Architecture project management software allows the PM and senior staff to perform detailed analysis on staffing, budgets and resource allocation. Most have numerous report templates, but customization is generally available too.
Competition today is fierce and unfortunately the most creative firms are not always the most successful. This is often due to less than ideal business processes and the inability to most effectively allocate resources and maintain billability. Architecture project management software takes much of the guesswork out of this process by providing the tools to do things more effectively. If you are not using a comprehensive PM system, you owe it to yourself and your firm to find out more.
Many firms piece together email, generic pm programs, spreadsheets, documents and a shared drive to manage things. And while this will get you by, you will not be best utilizing resources. Specifically designed architecture project management software blends together all the key components of the these programs into one easy to use interface. Since it is designed with architects in mind, the workflow, terminology and reporting are all tailored to the industry so there is little downtime in switching to the system.
Using specific software means that there is a very quick learning curve. All terminology, reports, templates are specific to the needs of a professional architectural firm. They are designed through close consultation with architects and staff who have real-world experience. This makes things simple, intuitive and much easier to learn. This also means training staff is easier, which means the company will more quickly adopt using the new system.
The basis of all good software is to organize, coordinate and manage the team's tasks, deliverables and workload. These programs offer a variety of features to make this easy. Project managers can plan all aspects of the project with a simple interface, entering tasks, dependencies, resources, time and other important components. Once entered these programs generally use Gantt chart-type reporting to get a visual look at a project.
Another important aspect is resource tracking. With all firm's emphasizing the maximization of resources and billable hours, it is imperative that the PM have quick access to resource allocation. These tools have many different reports that allow quick analysis of an individual's workload. It is also easy to spot where certain tasks need more attention and shift resources accordingly.
One of the things that makes this software unique for the industry is the document managing abilities. Document workflow lets you track things throughout the life of projects, from initial RFP to proposal to punch list. Instead of emailing documents, the firm can collaborate, and managing changes and versions is integrated into the program. Some feature outside collaboration tools as well so clients can review, change and upload docs.
Ideally all projects go according to plan, but of course this is not always the case. This is where reporting and analysis is important for improving profitability. Architecture project management software allows the PM and senior staff to perform detailed analysis on staffing, budgets and resource allocation. Most have numerous report templates, but customization is generally available too.
Competition today is fierce and unfortunately the most creative firms are not always the most successful. This is often due to less than ideal business processes and the inability to most effectively allocate resources and maintain billability. Architecture project management software takes much of the guesswork out of this process by providing the tools to do things more effectively. If you are not using a comprehensive PM system, you owe it to yourself and your firm to find out more.
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