Architecture and engineering firms are facing a lot of complexity when it comes to managing their budget, resources and projects. It is a challenge for them to keep clients happy and teams efficient.
The right software will make all the difference because it will integrate analytics, scheduling, finance and collaboration in one very powerful platform. If you have been searching for the best tool to manage all your projects from design to delivery, take a look at these five top performing software platforms for architecture, engineering as well as construction.
1.Unit4 – Best for Project-Centric Financial Control
Unit 4 stands out from many because of its deep understanding of the engineering and architecture space. This platform is designed to help firms manage project-based financials with extreme accuracy and flexibility. They provide real time cost tracking and intuitive forecasting tools.
You will get project based accounting when you use their software. This ensures that teams are able to compare actual costs against all estimates which helps prevent overrun surprises. Unit 4 also offers exceptional flexibility to handle shifting project scopes as well as timelines. It does all of this while automating administrative tasks such as timesheets and invoicing. This boosts productivity and improves cash flow.
| Pros | Cons |
| Excellent for those who need project-based financial tracking | A mild learning curve for its first-time users |
| Streamlined invoicing in addition to expense management | Pricing may not be ideal for small firms |
| Flexible workflows that are able to adapt to changing project scopes |
2. Deltek Vantagepoint – Best for Project Visibility & Resource Planning
Deltek Vantagepoint has been a trusted name in project based ERP Solutions for architecture and engineering firms for a long time. They bring together project planning, resource utilization and time tracking tools. All of this is put under one unified system.
Managers can very easily see exactly who is available, overbooked and where their resources can be optimized. This is especially good for large size firms which need to have full visibility into their project performance and profitability, all in one dashboard.
| Pros | Cons |
| Comprehensive project as well as resource management tools | Setup and customization will usually take a lot of time |
| Reporting and analytics that is highly detailed | The interface may feel a dated to some users |
| The best choice for mid-to-large-sized firms |
3. Autodesk Construction Cloud – Best for Design & Collaboration
Autodesk Construction Cloud is the go to choice for many firms that do a lot of design work. It integrates some powerful tools for construction, engineering and architect teams which allows them to collaborate in real time.
The platform also allows anyone to access up to date drawings and plans. This will reduce a lot of errors. It has advanced visualization tools which make it ideal for those design driven teams who want to maintain a great level of creative control while still streamlining their project workflows.
| Pros | Cons |
| It is excellent for design collaboration as well as file sharing | It may be costly for smaller studios |
| It is able to integrate seamlessly with several other Autodesk tools | It often requires strong hardware as well as connectivity |
| It reduces project errors via real-time updates |
4. Trimble ProjectSight – Best for Field and Site Management
Trimble Project Sight Is built with the realities of fieldwork in mind. It will enable teams to track progress and log issues. They will also be able to manage documentation directly from the job site. For those firms that are juggling multiple projects this app’s mobile functionality is going to ensure that project data will always be consistent.
It doesn’t matter if you’re in the office or on the site, this tool makes things very efficient. It is especially suited for those engineering firms that are managing large infrastructures or do construction heavy projects.
| Pros | Cons |
| It gives excellent mobile access to field teams | There are slightly limited customization options |
| The software streamlines documentation as well as issue tracking | The interface could be much more modern |
| It is great for infrastructure and large projects |
5. BQE CORE – Best for Simplifying Time & Expense Tracking
BQE CORE gives you a clean and user friendly interface. This way you can focus on simplifying your building systems, reporting and time tracking. It’s great for those smaller or mid-sized A&E firms.
If you need better visibility for your employee time, invoices and project costs but don’t want to overcomplicate your operations then this software is for you. Its mobile app as well as automation options make it a very good choice for those teams that are constantly on the move or work remotely
| Pros | Cons |
| It is extremely easy to use | It lacks a lot of key project accounting features |
| Very affordable and scalable pricing | Users experience limited customization compared to enterprise systems |
| It has very strong mobile functionality |
Final Thoughts
The best software you can use for engineering and architecture when you have a firm depends on its structure, size and workflow needs. If you’re looking for a flexible and project focused ERP that has deep financial insights then Unit 4 is your best choice.
For design heavy workflows other providers are also available and they have been listed here. Whatever you choose to do, adopting the right technology is going to help to reduce your risk, deliver more successful projects and control costs. All of this while freeing you up to focus on what truly matters, which is great design and engineering.
Firms that take the time to invest in data driven and integrated platforms will often gain a competitive edge. They will be able to forecast more accurately and collaborate much more effectively. This will ensure that they make smarter decisions that drive growth.
The ability to connect every aspect of a project from design to client delivery creates both transparency and trust. Not only among clients but the stakeholders as well. As client expectations begin to evolve the firms that are able to embrace innovation and make use of technology to streamline operations will survive and thrive.
