Providing end-to-end custom software development and UI/UX design services. We recognize each business's unique needs, delivering a personalized approach that aligns with your goals and vision.
Providing end-to-end custom software development and UI/UX design services. We recognize each business's unique needs, delivering a personalized approach that aligns with your goals and vision.
Providing end-to-end custom software development and UI/UX design services. We recognize each business's unique needs, delivering a personalized approach that aligns with your goals and vision.
Guide to Construction ERP Solutions: What to Look For, Key Features, and Benefits Explained
Olha Neborachek
Senior Marketing Copywriter
Nov 29, 2024
[Updated]
Content
Want to keep your construction projects on track and under budget? A construction ERP software can perfectly help with that.
From small contractors to large construction firms, businesses are turning to ERP solutions to simplify processes, automate tasks, improve financial management, and make project management more efficient and straightforward.
However, choosing the right system can feel overwhelming, with so many factors to consider. Don’t worry — in this guide, you’ll find everything you need to know about Construction ERP software and how to choose the right one for your business.
Construction Insights Backed by Our Experience
At RewiSoft, we’ve worked on a variety of web platforms and apps that simplify construction processes. The features you choose at the start make all the difference — the better the features, the more your construction ERP software can do. And let’s not forget AI trends — tools like predictive analytics are something many of our clients love because they make the job so much easier.
Below, you’ll find all the important information to help you make the right decisions for your construction ERP needs.
Why is an ERP Solution Important in the Construction Industry?
Before discussing choosing the right ERP software, let’s explore how ERP simplifies various processes in the construction industry.
Here’s why construction companies rely on ERP solutions:
ERP systems offer better financial control with precise budgeting and cost management tools.
ERP systems store all project data in one place, so anyone can quickly and easily find the necessary information in seconds.
ERP systems centralize data, making communication between on-site teams and office staff easier.
ERP provides access to real-time analytics and reports.
ERP simplifies interactions with suppliers and vendors, making construction enterprise resource planning more efficient for procurement and delivery.
ERP systems provide real-time tracking of project timelines that help to complete all tasks on schedule.
ERP systems help identify potential risks early.
Construction ERP systems can address all the points mentioned above. Additionally, custom ERP allows your company to scale seamlessly, adapting to more complex projects as your business grows.
What to Look for When Developing a Construction ERP: Trends
The coming years are set to redefine construction ERP software with emerging technologies like AI and ML integration becoming a must-have.
When selecting or developing software, it’s crucial to focus on key trends that will shape the industry, including:
AI and ML Integration
Cloud-Based Solutions
Enhanced Mobile Accessibility
IoT Integration
Each of these trends plays a significant role in simplifying processes and improving efficiency. Below is a detailed breakdown of these innovations and their impact on construction industry operations.
AI and ML Integration for Predictive Analytics
Integrating Artificial Intelligence and Machine Learning is becoming a cornerstone of modern Construction ERP system.
These technologies allow for advanced predictive analytics that help businesses with:
Forecasting project timelines.
Analyzing historical data to optimize the use of materials, equipment, etc.
Predicting cost overruns by identifying patterns and trends in spending.
Spotting potential risks earlier.
AI and ML don’t just improve analytics — they empower construction businesses to move from reactive problem-solving to proactive project planning.
IoT Integration for Real-Time Tracking
The Internet of Things is revolutionizing construction ERP software as it provides real-time tracking and monitoring of various aspects of construction comprojects:
Track the location, usage, and condition of machinery.
Material tracking.
Workforce tracking.
Site condition monitoring.
IoT sensors on equipment can also detect potential failures early..
Cloud-Based Solutions
Cloud-based ERP systems are another trend that is becoming the perfect choice for construction businesses:
It allows even remote teams to stay connected and productive.
It is also cost-effective as it reduces upfront infrastructure costs, eliminating the need to pay for expensive hardware.
Cloud ERP systems integrate seamlessly with other cloud-based tools like project management or construction accounting software.
As ERP systems become more interconnected, cybersecurity is no longer optional — it’s a must-have priority.
Construction ERP software handle sensitive project data, financial records, and operational workflows, so the importance of cybersecurity is evident.
The future of ERP systems is all about more robust security, such as:
Increased Encryption: Protecting your data during transfer and storage to keep it safe.
Advanced Threat Detection: Identifying and mitigating risks in real-time.
Regular Security Updates: Keeping the system protected against emerging threats with continuous improvements.
AR/VR for Project Visualization and Training
AR and VR technologies allow teams to experience immersive 3D models of projects, offering better planning and reducing errors before construction begins.
As adoption grows, AR/VR is set to become a game-changer in constructing ERP systems.
We Can Help You Build a Construction ERP System
With cutting-edge AI, IoT, and other game-changing trends
What makes a construction ERP solution truly great? It’s simple — solutions that actually simplify your job and help automate different tasks.
But here’s the catch: not all features are worth adding right away.
The RewiSoft team’s advice:
Don’t overload your ERP with extras at the start.
Focus on identifying the core features your team needs most.
Start small, and as your business grows, you can add more features that fit your evolving needs.
This approach keeps costs in check and ensures you’re building something that actually works for your team.
Now, let’s get back to the must-have features. We’ve narrowed it down to 9 essentials that construction enterprises often choose — and, trust us, they’ve proven themselves to work.
№ 1 Project Management Tools
Construction ERP is all about effective project management. You can keep your projects on track and running smoothly with the right tools.
Here’s what these tools can do:
Scheduling: Plan and organize tasks.
Tracking Milestones: Monitor critical project points to measure progress and stay aligned with deadlines.
Managing Progress: Check the overall progress to identify delays or issues.
Managing finances in the construction industry can get complicated, but a good ERP system simplifies the process.
The financial management feature helps you handle a variety of tasks with ease, such as:
Handle Budgets: Create and manage budgets for individual projects & stay within financial limits.
Track Expenses in Real-Time.
Get Precise Cost Estimations
Generate accurate cost predictions for materials, labor, and equipment
But that’s not all — financial management features can also generate detailed financial reports and make it easier to forecast future financial needs.
№3 Centralized Document Management
This feature is one of the most commonly used in the construction industry — and for good reason. With document management, you can store everything in one central, organized place. Contracts, blueprints, permits, and other important files are all easily accessible to your team when they need them.
Having all your documents in one place means:
Your team can find any documents they need in seconds.
Sensitive documents are stored securely, with controlled access. Access is restricted to authorized team members only.
№4 Resource Management
Effective resource management is crucial in the construction industry, where every resource — labor, materials, and equipment — needs to be utilized wisely to keep projects on track and under budget. A strong enterprise resource planning solution ensures seamless integration of these features for optimal efficiency.
Here’s what a great resource management feature can do for your construction ERP:
Efficient Allocation: Ensure labor, materials, and equipment are assigned where needed most, avoiding overlaps or resource shortages.
Real-Time Tracking: Monitor the status of resources in real-time, so you always know what’s available and where it’s being used.
Reduce Waste: Prevent over-ordering or underutilizing materials and equipment, which can save significant costs.
Enhanced Scheduling: Coordinate resource availability with project timelines to eliminate delays caused by resource conflicts.
Data-Driven Decisions: Use reports and analytics to identify inefficiencies and make smarter decisions about resource usage in future projects.
With all resource-related information stored and managed in one place, you gain better visibility and control. Resource Management helps maximize productivity and minimizes unnecessary expenses, giving your projects a competitive edge.
№5 Supply Chain Management
Managing the supply chain in construction sector is no small task, and a reliable ERP system can make it much simpler. For example, you can:
Streamline vendor interactions.
Track deliveries in real-time to always know where your materials are and when they’ll arrive.
Improve procurement processes: automate ordering workflows, compare vendor pricing, and more.
№6 Compliance and Risk Management
Construction projects often face constant regulatory and safety challenges, but Compliance and Risk Management features, combined with effective equipment management, can help you stay ahead.
Let’s see a few examples of how compliance and risk management help:
Maintain regulatory compliance by keeping all necessary documentation, permits, and certifications in one place.
Identify risks early by using automated alerts to flag potential issues.
Monitor safety protocols and enforce adherence to minimize workplace hazards.
Track compliance and risk management activities to protect your company from fines, lawsuits, or penalties.
№7 Reporting and Analytics
In-built reporting and analytics features provide you with an incredibly helpful wealth of data:
You can access real-time data on project performance, financials, and resource utilization.
You can customize reports focusing on the metrics that matter most for your company.
Predict Outcomes by using historical data and trends.
Monitor KPIs.
№ 8 Mobile Access
While mobile access might seem like a standard feature, many construction companies still lack it, significantly hindering their operational efficiency.
In the construction industry, much of the work happens on-site, so mobile access is a must-have feature.
It lets your teams stay connected no matter where they are, enabling faster communication and decision-making.
№9 Integration Capabilities
A great ERP system doesn’t operate in isolation — it works seamlessly with the tools and platforms you already rely on.
With integration capabilities, you can:
Connect to CAD software.
Sync with construction accounting platforms.
Unite all your tools in one place.
These features aren’t just optional extras — they’re game-changers that can make your construction ERP a valuable tool for your business. Focus on these features first, and you’ll set your team up for long-term success.
Best Practice: Add Scalability to Your ERP Architecture
As your business grows, your ERP system needs to grow with it. Unfortunately, ready-made solutions can’t provide you with those options.
In this case, custom ERP systems are great, as they provide scalability options that help your ERP remain a valuable tool, no matter how complex your operations become.
Steps to achieve seamless scalability:
Add support for more users by allowing new team members to join the system without compromising performance.
Handle larger projects: Whether you’re managing a single project or multiple large-scale jobs, your ERP can keep up with the increased demands.
Think about options to implement additional functionalities, such as advanced analytics or AI tools, when your business needs evolve.
Scalability allows construction business to adapt to new challenges and opportunities, making it a wise long-term investment.
Construction ERP Options: Custom vs. Subscription-Based
Let’s explore the two main types of construction ERP solutions available:
Custom Solution
A customized ERP system built to meet your unique project and business requirements.
Ready-Made (Subscription-Based Solution)
A pre-built ERP system that offers standard features for a monthly subscription fee, available for quick implementation.
Pros of Custom Solution
Custom ERP systems are all about giving your business exactly what it needs to succeed:
+ All the Features You Need Custom ERP systems include precise features and integrations that your business requires.
+ Your Own UI/UX Design A custom design isn’t just about looking good — it’s about creating an easy-to-navigate user experience that matches your corporate style. The better the design, the smoother things run for your team.
+ Built to Grow With You Custom solutions provide scalability, allowing you to add new features and tools as your business expands. Your ERP evolves alongside your processes, ensuring it stays valuable as your needs change.
+ Full Ownership With a custom solution, you own the software, avoiding dependency on third-party providers and subscription fees.
+ Improved Data Security Custom ERP systems can include advanced, business-specific security measures to protect sensitive data.
+ Adaptability to Niche Needs If construction business operates in a specialized sector, custom ERP can address industry-specific requirements that ready-made solutions often lack.
+ Integration With Legacy Systems A custom ERP can be built to integrate with older software or hardware your business still relies on.
With a custom ERP solution, you’re building something uniquely yours — a system built to work for your team today and grow with your business tomorrow.
Cons of Custom Solution
Higher Initial Costs
Custom solutions require a significant upfront investment since you pay for development at the start.
Longer Development Time
Building a solution from the ground up can take considerable time, depending on the project’s complexity.
Pros of Ready-Made (Subscription-Based Solution)
+ Quick Implementation Ready-made solutions are pre-built, so you can start using them almost immediately.
+ Predictable Costs Monthly subscription fees make budgeting more manageable, and you can clearly see the cost breakdown for adding new members or choosing advanced features.
Cons of Ready-Made (Subscription-Based Solution)
Limited Feature Set
The available features may not fully meet your needs.
Recurring Monthly Costs
You must pay a subscription fee every month.
Dependence on the Provider
Your business relies on the provider for updates, support, and system reliability.
Lack of Scalability
These solutions don’t offer the flexibility to grow with your business as your needs evolve.
Fragmented Systems
Limited features often force companies to use multiple solutions to meet their needs, leading to inefficiencies and complexity.
High Long-Term Costs
While cheaper initially, subscription costs add up over time. Adding more members or features can make the system expensive in the long run.
Choosing between custom and subscription-based construction ERP solutions depends on your business’s unique needs and goals. Custom solutions offer scalability, full ownership, and custom features, while subscription-based options provide quick implementation and predictable costs. Carefully evaluating the pros and cons of each option will help you decide which solution works best for your operations and long-term success.
How Much Does it Cost to Develop a Construction ERP? Price and Process Breakdown
Each development company has its own pricing, so below, we’ll provide you with the pricing at RewiSoft and the factors that affect the cost. At RewiSoft, the starting price for development services begins at $40,000.
What Affects the Price
Tech Stack you’ll choose: If you’re not familiar with tech stacks, don’t worry — we’ll advise you on what will work best for you.
Feature set and tools: The more features you want, the more it will impact the price.
The overall complexity of the project.
Additional Factors Include
Platform Type
Integrations
Design
Country of the Development Team
At RewiSoft, you’ll receive a skilled team with proven expertise in the real estate industry, including:
Developers, including a CTO, QA specialists, and a Tech Lead.
A UI/UX design team, as we strongly focus on design.
A PM who will keep you updated on all project developments.
Why Choose RewiSoft for Your Custom Construction ERP?
Choosing the right partner for your construction ERP project is a big step, but we’re here to make it easy.
A well-built ERP system helps simplify processes, improve efficiency, and achieve better results. However, creating the right ERP takes more than technology — it takes understanding your business and delivering exactly what you need.
At RewiSoft, we understand the construction industry inside out, so you can rely on us to deliver the expertise you need. From start to finish, we’ll support you every step of the way.
To guarantee transparency and collaboration, we offer regular communication through:
Open Communication via Slack We’ll set up a Slack channel for open communication with all team members, allowing you to get quick responses to essential matters.
Project Control through Jira Jira provides you with full visibility of your project backlog and progress. You can easily track time spent and task statuses.
Weekly Detailed Reports Each week, our PM will send you a detailed report outlining the time spent on tasks and the status of your project’s budget.
Progress Calls We’ll arrange weekly calls to review progress, address your questions, and align on project goals and next steps.
Let’s work together to build a construction ERP that truly works for your business!