When looking for new work, contractors today face many challenges, including:
• Limited project information
• Time-consuming bid preparation processes
Project search software designed for the commercial construction industry can help contractors find, track, and bid projects. It can also streamline the bidding process, making preparing and sending competitive bids easier.
When it comes to evaluating project search software, here are six things to think about as they relate to your business:
1. Is it a trusted, comprehensive source of new projects?
Good project search software should give you access to both public and private projects – a lot of them. It should also centralize all the information you need to know about a project, including relevant dates, documents, and contacts. This saves time so that you never miss potential jobs.
The database should also be regularly updated and include important details, such as location, scope, timeline, and budget. It should also help you easily find and save projects matching your specific trade or service, where you want to work, and so on. You want a software that can help you find new business – fast.
2. Does the software have advanced search and filtering options?
Look for tools that can help you focus on the most relevant opportunities so that you increase your chances of success. Ideally, the software also has advanced filters – location, project type, budget range – to help you narrow your search to the best opportunities. Make sure that it’s providing you updates in real-time, too, so that you can respond right away.
3. Does it include bid management tools?
Software that includes customizable templates, helps you with bid leveling and other calculations, and has built-in document management can help you create professional, accurate bids.
A good bid management tool can also help you collaborate with your team members. It also should have automated reminders for bid deadlines. These are time savers that help you get your bid out the door more quickly.
4. Does it match my business workflows?
Any project search software you select should work seamlessly with other tools and systems you’re using now, or it should help to streamline your processes and/or reduce costly errors. All-in-one solutions that include bid management, estimating, and project management tools are great money-saving options, so you don’t have to buy – and support – separate software for each business need.
5. Is this software mobile-friendly?
In construction, being tied to a desk isn’t an option. Your software should enable you to make decisions on the go. When selecting a project search software solution, make sure it works the same way on your mobile devices as it does on your desktop.
6. Is there training readily available in case I or my team need help?
Unsupported software is expensive software. Make sure what you choose includes options to get ongoing training. That can be “knowledge paths” built into the software – best practice content that helps you get started right away – or it can be collaborating with a designated trainer in group training sessions or one-on-one tutorials. Either way, you want to make sure that you and your team fully understand how to get the most out of your investment.
Embracing Technology for Success
Whether you’re looking to increase your bid success rate, be more efficient, or free up more time to grow your business, software can be a game-changer.
Get the competitive edge your business needs for long-term success. See how ConstructConnect® can help you find, manage, and win more bids today.
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