Excel and construction
Contents |
[edit] Introduction
At a time when data has the power to make or break organisations, having the right tools for managing projects, sites or the organisation as a whole – is paramount.
Audits have shown that nearly 90% of spreadsheets with more than 150 rows include errors; with a 1 in 50 chance of each individual cell containing an error. Large spreadsheets used for construction management, consisting of hundreds and thousands of cells may contain a high level of inaccuracies.
There are alternatives however, in the form of off-the-shelf software systems that can help with this, giving improved performance throughout a project.
[edit] How software tools compare
[edit] Precision
Many organisations can cite a time when spreadsheet mistakes led to poor decision-making. Software tools with specific data-entry and manipulation functions minimise user error considerably.
[edit] Integration
Excel doesn't integrate well with new management software systems. Specific construction industry software directly integrates with many popular software systems, eliminating the need to manually enter data.
[edit] Remote working
Most construction software available today is run using cloud-based software, meaning data is not tied to one computer and can be accessed, amended and updated from anywhere. This makes data entry more streamlined and allows all users to access live data.
[edit] Support
Unlike Excel, specific construction software tools are often created and managed by teams of qualified construction professionals, enabling quick troubleshooting and effective timely support.
[edit] Security
When collaborating between departments and/or other organisations, constant emailing of spreadsheets leaves open the possibility of hacking. Cloud-based software tools with multiple users reduce the risk of potentially sensitive information being hacked.
With so many evident benefits to using specifically-designed construction software tools it is certain they will play an increasingly important role in improving the efficiency and performance.
This article was originally published as 'Construction and Excel - an average formula' by BRE Buzz on 7 Dec 2016. It was written by Harriet Cooper.
--BRE Buzz
[edit] Related articles on Designing Buildings Wiki
- BRE Buzz articles on Designing Buildings Wiki.
- Bill of quantities software.
- Building management systems.
- Common data environment.
- Computers in building design.
- Computers in the management of construction.
- Construction project management software.
- Information and communications technology.
- Information and communications technology (ICT) consultant.
- Internet of things.
- Project extranet.
- SiteSmart.
- Top big data tools used to store and analyze data.
- WiFi.
Featured articles and news
The Home Energy Model and its wrappers
From SAP to HEM, EPC for MEES and FHS assessment wrappers.
Future Homes Standard Essentials launched
Future Homes Hub launches new campaign to help the homebuilding sector prepare for the implementation of new building standards.
Building Safety recap February, 2026
Our regular run-down of key building safety related events of the month.
Planning reform: draft NPPF and industry responses.
Last chance to comment on proposed changes to the NPPF.
A Regency palace of colour and sensation. Book review.
Delayed, derailed and devalued
How the UK’s planning crisis is undermining British manufacturing.
How much does it cost to build a house?
A brief run down of key considerations from a London based practice.
The need for a National construction careers campaign
Highlighted by CIOB to cut unemployment, reduce skills gap and deliver on housing and infrastructure ambitions.
AI-Driven automation; reducing time, enhancing compliance
Sustainability; not just compliance but rethinking design, material selection, and the supply chains to support them.
Climate Resilience and Adaptation In the Built Environment
New CIOB Technical Information Sheet by Colin Booth, Professor of Smart and Sustainable Infrastructure.
Turning Enquiries into Profitable Construction Projects
Founder of Develop Coaching and author of Building Your Future; Greg Wilkes shares his insights.
IHBC Signpost: Poetry from concrete
Scotland’s fascinating historic concrete and brutalist architecture with the Engine Shed.
Demonstrating that apprenticeships work for business, people and Scotland’s economy.
Scottish parents prioritise construction and apprenticeships
CIOB data released for Scottish Apprenticeship Week shows construction as top potential career path.
From a Green to a White Paper and the proposal of a General Safety Requirement for construction products.
Creativity, conservation and craft at Barley Studio. Book review.
The challenge as PFI agreements come to an end
How construction deals with inherited assets built under long-term contracts.
Skills plan for engineering and building services
Comprehensive industry report highlights persistent skills challenges across the sector.
Choosing the right design team for a D&B Contract
An architect explains the nature and needs of working within this common procurement route.
Statement from the Interim Chief Construction Advisor
Thouria Istephan; Architect and inquiry panel member outlines ongoing work, priorities and next steps.
Comments
Unfortunately this sounds like marketing.