Why Construction Subcontractors Need to Replace Excel with Construction Software

The Inefficiencies of Spreadsheets and the Need for Software Alternatives to Excel for Construction

Summary: This article highlights the drawbacks of using Excel spreadsheets for commercial construction subcontractors and the advantages of switching to construction software and an alternative. It discusses how Excel leads to high error rates, limited collaboration, and insufficient automation capabilities. It also provides insights into the benefits of construction software, including enhanced collaboration, advanced automation, tailored functionality, improved standardization, and enhanced security.

The Hidden Costs of Spreadsheet Use in the Construction Industry

In the commercial construction industry, many subcontractors still rely on Excel spreadsheets to track their projects. This practice, while seemingly convenient, is both inefficient and potentially costly. In this article, we will explore the problems associated with using Excel spreadsheets in construction project management and discuss the advantages of software alternatives like eSUB Cloud. By understanding the limitations of Excel and the benefits of purpose-built construction software, subcontractors can make informed decisions that will ultimately improve their project outcomes and increase profitability.

The Inherent Drawbacks of Excel Spreadsheets for Construction Subcontractors

High Error Rates

Research indicates that a staggering 88% of construction spreadsheets used in professional settings contain errors. These errors may result from manual data entry, incorrect formulas, or simple oversight. With so many potential pitfalls, relying on spreadsheets for essential project tracking can lead to expensive mistakes, rework, and miscommunication.

Limited Collaboration and Accessibility

Excel spreadsheets are often stored as static files on a local computer or network drive, limiting their accessibility to team members working on the project site. This lack of accessibility means that subcontractors must wait until they can access the spreadsheet to update it, increasing the likelihood of errors and delaying essential communication.

Insufficient Automation and Analytics

Excel lacks the advanced automation and analytics capabilities that construction-specific software can offer. Subcontractors must put in, change, and look at data by themselves, which can take a lot of time and cause mistakes. Also, not having special tools to help understand the information makes it hard to see patterns, improve how things are done, and make choices based on facts.

The Cumulative Effects of Excel’s Shortcomings on Subcontractors

Lost Time and Resources

The labor costs associated with correcting mistakes, searching for project data, or performing rework caused by miscommunication or inaccurate data can be significant. The U.S. construction industry loses around $178 billion every year because of these problems. Excel spreadsheets, which don’t allow easy teamwork and often have mistakes, are usually the main reason for these expensive troubles.

Legal Risks and Unpaid Work

Excel’s limitations in tracking crucial construction documents like RFIs, change orders, and submittals can leave subcontractors vulnerable to legal disputes and unpaid work. Inaccurate or incomplete documentation may lead to conflicts with clients, general contractors, or other subcontractors, negatively impacting relationships and future business opportunities.

Hindered Growth and Scalability

As a subcontracting business grows, the need for standardization and efficient project management becomes even more critical. Relying on Excel spreadsheets for tracking projects hampers the ability to scale operations and implement consistent processes across the organization, ultimately limiting growth potential.

Replace Excel with Construction Software for Improved Efficiency and Profitability

Enhanced Collaboration and Accessibility

Construction software alternatives to Excel, like eSUB Cloud, provide cloud-based platforms that enable real-time collaboration and accessibility. Team members can update project data and access essential documents from any device, ensuring that everyone stays informed and reducing the likelihood of errors and miscommunication.

Advanced Automation and Analytics

By replacing Excel with construction software, subcontractors can take advantage of advanced automation features that streamline data entry, document management, and project tracking. Construction-specific software also offers robust analytics tools, empowering subcontractors to make data-driven decisions and optimize processes.

Tailored Functionality and Industry Focus

Unlike generic spreadsheet software, construction project management platforms like eSUB Cloud are designed specifically for the unique needs of the industry. These software solutions offer features tailored to construction subcontractors, such as bid management, resource allocation, and progress tracking. By using software built for their specific requirements, subcontractors can improve efficiency and project outcomes.

Improved Standardization and Scalability

Adopting construction project management software allows subcontractors to standardize processes across their organization, enabling more efficient operations and easier scaling. With a centralized, accessible platform, subcontractors can ensure consistency in project management, documentation, and communication.

Enhanced Security and Compliance

Construction software solutions offer advanced security features and compliance tools that Excel lacks. With data encryption, user access controls, and audit trails, subcontractors can better protect sensitive project information and ensure adherence to industry regulations.

Make the Switch to Construction Software for Better Project Outcomes

For commercial construction subcontractors, the disadvantages of using Excel spreadsheets to track their projects far outweigh any perceived convenience. With high error rates, limited collaboration, and insufficient automation capabilities, Excel is ill-suited for the demands of the construction industry.

Replacing Excel with construction software like eSUB Cloud offers numerous benefits, including improved efficiency, enhanced collaboration, and tailored functionality. By making the switch, subcontractors can better manage their projects, reduce costly errors, and ultimately increase profitability.

If you’re a commercial construction subcontractor looking for spreadsheet alternatives, now is the time to consider the advantages of purpose-built construction project management software. Say goodbye to the inefficiencies of Excel and embrace the benefits of industry-specific solutions designed to help your business succeed.

eSUB Pays for Itself Through Time Savings and Efficiency Alone

We’ve had clients tell us many times how eSUB Cloud has gained them back efficiency, time, and even saved them from having to hire more office personnel to enter data and keep track of information:

“The eSUB platform enables all our Project Manager’s to do everything the same way and allows for management to easily track each project’s progression. The construction industry in New York is extremely fast paced, so firms need a program like eSUB to help you handle projects efficiently and allow you to become more successful.”

-Dan Tagliaferri, Project Manager, Above All Store Fronts

Read the Above All Store Fronts case study.

“We were using a lot of spreadsheets and word documents to manage our projects… For example, we had a Change Order template and RFI template. We we would type up the information into the templates and then email the documents to the GC for approval. [With eSUB] the time savings we have been able to experience has been valuable.”

-Meyer Sarshalom, Vice President, A&P Air Conditioning

Read the A&P Air Conditioning case study.

Reach out today to schedule a demo and learn how eSUB can transform your business into a well-oiled construction project tracking machine!