The construction sector has long been suffering from convoluted workflows, siloed departments, and scattered project information. Contractors no longer require yet another tool to treat a particular pain point here and another there. They require a unified solution to be in a position to manage every facet of their projects—tender to handover. Construction management platforms enter the scene.
As integrated platforms are on the rise, the battle among platform solutions and point solutions is intensifying. What is the strategy that enables construction companies to work smarter rather than harder?
And then here we jump into construction software, dividing the pros of comprehensive platforms from solitary point solutions. Before you get done reading, you'll have the answer on your desk - and you'll also understand how platforms like Archdesk are where construction software goes forward, offering a superpower for each of your departments while putting an end to data silos.
What Are Point Solutions and Construction Management Platforms?
Construction Management Platform
A construction management platform (CMP) is a comprehensive end-to-end software solution that controls a wide range of construction processes from one system. It simplifies workflows, improves collaboration, and provides a "golden thread of information" across the entire project lifecycle. Processes and information flow from pre-construction right through to handover, enabling more informed decision-making.
Some example platforms include Archdesk, Procore, and Autodesk Construction Cloud.
Point Solutions
Point solutions, on the other hand, target specific activities or departments of the construction process, such as scheduling, document management, or budgeting. While often specialized and useful for the specific activity they're designed to perform, point solutions lack the platforms' end-to-end vision and integration potential.
Shared point solutions include Bluebeam (PDF markup), Viewpoint (accounting), and Buildern (project management).
Comparing Platforms and Point Solutions
The Golden Thread of Information
One of the most significant advantages of systems like Archdesk is the "golden thread of information." This means the uninterrupted and unbroken flow of information from the beginning of the entire construction process.
For example:
- Tender Stage: The process begins with a tender or an enquiry. Details of the project, such as initial designs and bids, are recorded in the platform.
- Contract and Design: Contract and design information is provided, adding to data on hand.
- Construction Workflows: All departments, from project managers through engineers, access and modify the same master data.
- Handover: Once finished, all project details (designs, invoices, safety data) are handed over digitally on one platform, ensuring continuity.
Integrate solutions, on the contrary, tend to harmonize the process. If two teams utilize the same estimation tool and the same project management tool, the systems are simpler to integrate. The harmonization has a tendency to prevent data silos.
Integration and Workflow Effectiveness
There needs to be continuous workflow in construction. Construction management software not only consolidates disjointed tools but also places multiple departments' teams working in concert on current information on a single platform. This reduces errors, reduces rework, and enhances productivity.
Point solutions do not cut it here. For example, if a scheduling application is not integrated with your document management system, changes will not cascade through automatically, leading to delays or misalignment between teams.
Scalability and Customization
Construction projects are heterogeneous, and solutions must be adapted to this heterogeneity. Platforms like Archdesk offer adaptable data models, and users are able to:
- Define custom project attributes (i.e., Estimated Value, Project Manager roles).
- Streamline project processes by project size or type.
- Generate real-time reports at every phase of a project.
Point solutions lack this flexibility often. They may be used for one team but cannot be scaled as the project complexity rises.
Reporting and Analysis
Deep reporting is one more advantage of a platform. With a construction ERP system, you can have cross-departmental reports and actionable insights. For example, you can observe financial KPIs in combination with tracking the development of the project and regulatory requirements.
Point solutions are more narrow in scope, providing information only on their own functionality.
The Business Case for Platforms
Leveraging Higher Valuations
For construction business owners, platforms do more than just facilitate business. Platforms add business value. At the time of sale or merger, businesses with integrated platforms such as Archdesk demonstrate:
- Strong procedures.
- Compiled, high-grade information.
- Operational efficiencies.
This is attractive to potential investors and buyers, typically leading to valuation that is greater.
The Function of Centralized Data
Ask yourself, would you buy a business whose data is scattered everywhere? Disorganized data creates inefficiencies, lack of transparency, and increased risk—all of which reduce a business's value. On the other hand, companies with well-organized data systems instill trust. They build reliability, better decision-making, and the ability to scale operations. A system such as Archdesk organizes your data, makes it transparent, and actionable, providing a strong foundation for long-term success.
Competitive Advantage
Platforms are an investment in the future. In a McKinsey construction tech report, platforms increase "stickiness," that is, they become indispensable to operations on a day-to-day basis. That means higher profitability and loyalty.
With integrated platforms like Archdesk, offering synchronized workflows, businesses gain the competitive edge in on-time project delivery, cost reduction, and enhanced overall quality.
Solving Pain Points through Platforms
Breaking Data Silos
Unconnected information is one of the largest pain points for construction companies. Platforms break down silos by creating a single source of truth that all departments can draw from. Information flows seamlessly from tender to handover.
Enhancing Teamwork Between Teams
Construction involves numerous stakeholders, including designers and engineers, project managers, and contractors. Platforms guarantee that they are all collaborating in unison with the same current information.
Strengthening Decision-Making
Platforms guide decision-making with real-time, multi-layered intelligence. Budgeting, scheduling, or risk management, leaders make decisions with confidence from accurate data.
Streamlining Reporting
It's easy to report to stakeholders using platforms. Centralized information and automated business processes deliver personalized, pro-level reporting without manual effort.
The Rise of Platforms in Construction
The construction industry is shifting away from piecemeal point solutions and towards platforms. McKinsey's construction technology research found that platforms for over five use cases increased from 13% of the market in 2017 to 20% in 2020. This is indicative of the growing recognition among construction executives that platforms, not individual tools, are the future.
With AI, robotics, and analytics developing at a rapid pace, platforms have become convergence points. Created to meet not only current needs but also upcoming innovations, these platforms are future-proofed.
Why Archdesk Is Different
Unlike monolithic solutions, Archdesk offers a flexible data model to fit your business. For example, you can:
- Define project-specific attributes like "Technology Type" or "Source of Project."
- Automate particular departmental workflows correctly.
- Design tailored reporting dashboards based on KPIs relevant to your organization.
Archdesk is not just a platform, it's a partnership. By joining forces, simplifying processes, and delivering insights that lead to action, we enable you to outsmart the competition and achieve your aspirations.
Final Thoughts + Next Steps
The case for platforms versus point solutions is strongly in the direction of platforms, and most notably in the construction sector. With ever more complicated projects and stringent client requirements, the need for combined systems that provide efficiency and transparency is not in doubt.
Investment in a construction management system such as Archdesk is not merely a matter of addressing the issues of the present. It's about positioning your company for a future that requires scalability, adaptability, and innovation.
If you're ready to take advantage of streamlined workflows, unified data, and tailored solutions, learn more about Archdesk today and discover how we can transform how you build.
