Building and civil engineering contractors want to save time, keep better track of their sites, simplify their management and control their cash flow. To achieve these goals, the essential tool is high-performance software for estimates and invoices. However, choosing among the software available is not an easy task, as there are so many on the market. The best option is to choose the one that best suits your needs and your specific situation.
Fortunately, there are a number of software packages specially designed for construction professionals that deserve your attention. We're going to give you an overview of the different functionalities offered by these software packages, which respond to the problems encountered in the building and civil engineering sector.
Discover the undeniable advantages of computerization for your business.
What are the selection criteria?
Choosing the right software for your business is essential, as needs can vary according to the size of the structure, the budget and the functionalities required. Here are a few criteria to consider when making the right choice:
- Functionalities common to all companies: look for options such as creation and editing of quotes and invoices, VAT management, down payments, collections and reminders. Check whether the accounting software supports export to your accountant's accounting system, document personalization, electronic signature and access to analytical data (sales, expenses, income, etc.).
- Special features for the building and civil engineering sector: make sure that the software offers functionalities adapted to the building and civil engineering sector, such as the calculation of quantity take-offs, site planning and monitoring, status invoices, labor tracking, raw materials purchasing management, margin and profitability management, as well as a library of books.
- Ease of use: look for software that's intuitive, easy to learn and ergonomic. You can often test solutions before you buy, by taking advantage of demos or trial periods.
- Flexibility: it's best to opt for online software that will automatically update itself and grow with your business. Flexibility is crucial in a constantly evolving industry.
- Customer service: make sure the software has a customer service department available when you need it. Technical support can be invaluable, especially if you're not a computer expert.
- Pricing: evaluate your budget and compare the different options offered by software publishers. Some offer software as a purchase, others as a subscription with monthly or annual payments, and still others offer free versions. Consider the long-term return on investment, and opt for a more expensive solution if it's better suited to your needs and helps you optimize your business.
Advantages of choosing software for quotations and invoices
In an ultra-competitive, ever-changing market, industry professionals must adapt to meet customer expectations and remain competitive.
Management software, especially for quotations and invoices, makes everyday life a lot easier for craftsmen, small businesses and SMEs.
Here are some of the undeniable advantages of working with such software, especially for billing:
- Saving time: as each job is unique, it can take a long time to draw up a complete estimate. That's where the software comes in, by automating certain tasks. Creating the estimate becomes easier, as material and labor prices are updated and stored in the job libraries. The estimate can then be transformed into a compliant invoice in just a few clicks, using the same data.
- Increased productivity: saving time naturally translates into greater productivity. Hours previously spent on administrative tasks(drawing up quotations, creating invoices, searching for prices, correcting errors, filing documents, tracking receipts, etc.) can now be invested in higher value-added work.
- Improved profitability: management software highlights key indicators such as margins achieved, costs incurred, late payments and cash flow problems, all in real time. This makes it possible to rectify certain items or detect anomalies, thus contributing to improved overall profitability.
- Centralized data: all essential information concerning suppliers, customers, rates, contracts, income, expenses, cash flow, deadlines, etc. is centralized in a single interface. A dashboard brings all these elements together, providing a quick overview of your company's economic situation, the progress of your projects, the state of your finances, and much more. Document dematerialization puts an end to paperwork and eliminates the risk of losing important information.
- Legal compliance: software, especially online software, is regularly updated to comply with legal developments. So you don't have to worry about complying with the law. Your customers, like your business partners, will receive compliant documents, professionally presented and up to date. This strengthens your company's credibility and facilitates business exchanges.
Adopting management software for your quotations and invoices offers a number of tangible advantages that will help you optimize your business, improve productivity and comply with current legislation.