Using Construction Accounting Software is a big step towards streamlining accounting operations. In order to ensure that the most is gotten out of the investment, a proper implementation of the software is required. A poor implementation can really prevent construction firms from taking advantage of the benefits of construction accounting software.
What Happens After a Poor Implementation
Poor Knowledge Base
One of the biggest effects of poor implementation is that users start off with a smaller knowledge base. Not having a good understanding of the system to begin with makes it very difficult to use it. Also, a poor knowledge base always leads to staff needing to contact customer support for a variety of questions and in some cases extra training. This ends up costing contractors both time and money.
Not Taking Full Advantage Of Software
Another consequence of poor implementation is the user not being able to use the software to its full capabilities. Not having a good base of knowledge on the software can lead the user to perform either improper or time-consuming actions. For example, the user may pull payroll data from the software to manually create Certified Payroll reports, not knowing that function is already in the system.
Tips For Successful Implementation
Study Study Study
When implementing new software training is successful when repetition is practiced. People rarely learn something entirely on the first try. It takes practice and doing it over and over to really master it. It is important the user stays on top of training and completes any assignments (homework) given to them by the training staff. The homework is especially important because it reinforces what the user learned in the training previous training session.
Embrace The Change
One trap that many companies fall into when implementing new construction accounting software is they try to use the new software in the same manner as the previous one. Since users are more comfortable with the previous software, users try to use the new software as similar to the old as possible. This practice really gets in the way of users being able to truly utilize the new Construction Accounting Software. What ends up happening is that the user gets frustrated when realizing the software cannot be used in the same manner as the old one. Users must fully embrace that the software will work differently than before because it is a new system. Remember, there is a reason why the new software was chosen in the first place. Trying to turn the new software into the old software will just lead to disappointment and frustration. Embrace the change.
Have The Right Equipment
Having the proper equipment to use the software is another important step for a successful implementation. Whether the software is hosted on a server or is web-based, users must have fully functioning computers. Slow performing PCs can really make life difficult when trying to use the software, or just trying to get work done in general. At the bare minimum, PCs should have Windows 8, 4GB of ram, and 256GB of hard drive memory. Servers that will host the program locally should have at least a 1.4GHz processor and 4GB of ram, ideally, 8GB if virtual machines will be used.
When implementing new construction accounting software construction firms must go in with an open mind and a healthy appetite for learning. To ensure that a return on the investment is realized, firms must make sure that implementing the software successfully is the main priority. A successful implementation will enable users to hit the ground running.
About the Author
Eric Goldstein is the President of C/F Data Systems. With over a quarter of a century of experience in the construction software arena, Eric has led C/F Data System’s ongoing development of the company’s flagship software, STRUCTURE Blue. He began his career at ADP, and first joined the C/F Data System sales department in 1985. He was quickly promoted to Vice President of Sales. After sales positions with Timberline software and Textura, Eric returned as C/F Data’s President in 2009.
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