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
What it is and how to use it.
Investors in People: CIOB achieves gold
Reflecting a commitment to employees and members.
Scratching beneath the surface; a guide to selection.
ECA 2024 Apprentice of the Year Award
Entries open for submission until May 31.
UK gov apprenticeship funding from April 2024
Brief summary the policy paper updated in March.
For the World Autism Awareness Month of April.
70+ experts appointed to public sector fire safety framework
The Fire Safety (FS2) Framework from LHC Procurement.
Project and programme management codes of practice
CIOB publications for built environment professionals.
The ECA Industry Awards 2024 now open !
Recognising the best in the electrotechnical industry.
Sustainable development concepts decade by decade.
The regenerative structural engineer
A call for design that will repair the natural world.
Buildings that mimic the restorative aspects found in nature.
CIAT publishes Principal Designer Competency Framework
For those considering applying for registration as a PD.
BSRIA Building Reg's guidance: The second staircase
An overview focusing on aspects which most affect the building services industry.
Design codes and pattern books
Harmonious proportions and golden sections.
Introducing or next Guest Editor Arun Baybars
Practising architect and design panel review member.
Comments
Unfortunately this sounds like marketing.