Top CPM Scheduling Software Tools

SmartPM is the official software choice for CDI Experts, offering a revolutionary Construction Analytics Software and Project Controls Platform tailored specifically for the Construction Industry. Developed by Expert Construction Schedule Analysts, SmartPM streamlines and automates the time-consuming aspects of analyses, providing unbiased and indisputable data. With SmartPM, companies no longer need to rely on third-party specialists as they can now conduct their own comprehensive analyses in a fraction of the time. By translating schedule file data into easily understandable information, SmartPM enables construction project stakeholders to assess and rectify schedule quality throughout the project lifecycle, analyse delays, evaluate schedule compression and end-date feasibility, and perform complete forensic delay analysis. The software unlocks hidden data stored in schedule files and converts it into informative reports, graphs, and analytics, highlighting problem areas and risk issues while guiding users in making informed decisions.

One of the key advantages of SmartPM is its ability to provide competitive pricing for delay analysis contracts. By analysing all project schedules within minutes, the software allows for a thorough assessment of schedule quality and the identification of activities that may be causing delays. This information is crucial in determining whether the Contractor has effectively mitigated or accelerated to recover delay.

There are several pros associated with SmartPM. Firstly, the software is incredibly user-friendly and highly effective in conveying schedule-related information. It allows for seamless communication regarding project progress. Additionally, the customer experience provided by SmartPM is exceptional. The team is attentive, responsive, and genuinely interested in addressing any queries or suggestions for improvement. The quality checker feature is particularly valuable, enabling a quick and comprehensive assessment of schedule quality and facilitating prompt improvements. Moreover, the dashboards and delay analysis capability of SmartPM are highly beneficial, providing project stakeholders with a clear understanding of the factors driving delays in just minutes.

While SmartPM regularly updates its platform, this can also be considered a con for some users. However, the software’s willingness to listen to user feedback and suggestions for improvement through the suggestion box on the platform is commendable.

Archdesk is a highly recommended software for managing and organising projects. It excels in facilitating project management and scheduling activities, enabling effective planning, monitoring, and timely delivery of projects. By collecting and integrating data, Archdesk provides real-time information about the progress of your projects, empowering you to make informed decisions and feel confident about their overall status.

One of the key advantages of Archdesk is its ability to optimise resource utilisation and prevent overbooking and potential delays. It achieves this by generating automatic reports that offer valuable insights. Moreover, the platform is customisable, allowing you to tailor it to your specific processes and workflows. This flexibility ensures that Archdesk adapts to your needs, rather than requiring you to conform to rigid systems.

Another excellent option for construction scheduling software is CoConstruct. This platform is designed to enhance project management and collaboration within construction companies. It facilitates the creation of project schedules and provides real-time monitoring of progress. CoConstruct also improves communication both internally within the project team and externally, resulting in accelerated project delivery. Additionally, the software offers budgeting tools, customer interaction features, and activity planning capabilities. This makes it an ideal choice for businesses involved in building and home remodeling.

CoConstruct is a popular web-based construction software utilised by contractors, modelers, and design-build companies. It provides various features such as activity planning, scheduling, estimating, budgeting, and communications. One notable advantage of CoConstruct is its ease of customisation, and the software also provides good customer service for those in need of assistance. However, it is important to note that CoConstruct does not offer a free trial, which may be a downside for prospective users who prefer to try out the software before making a purchase.

Another aspect to consider is that CoConstruct can be expensive and has limited integrations. This may pose challenges for users who are seeking a system that seamlessly integrates with their other construction-related or general software packages, such as accounting or social tools.

eSUB is a dedicated scheduling software for construction teams that offers reliable field communication and document management. It centralises all processes, allowing users to control everything from a single location. With features like a Gantt chart, visual task management, dependencies, and progress tracking, it simplifies complex task breakdowns. It also supports critical path method for milestone tracking. Other key features include scheduling and resource management, unlimited file storage, field reporting, and document control. While eSUB provides an all-in-one solution, users have highlighted its ease of setup, responsive support, and the need for navigation shortcuts. Some minor issues with entering hours in the daily reports module have been reported.

Smartsheet is widely praised in the construction industry for its valuable features, including planning, tracking, automation, and reporting capabilities. It stands out as a popular choice for project scheduling and progress monitoring by allowing users to set milestones and track real-time changes. Additionally, the platform aids companies in streamlining processes, establishing workflows, and enhancing overall efficiency, thereby minimizing errors. Overall, Smartsheet is a robust software solution that offers numerous benefits to construction companies, such as time savings, cost reduction, and improved project outcomes.

Smartsheet is a versatile and highly adaptable tool for project management and collaborative work. While its interface resembles a spreadsheet, it offers far greater functionality and flexibility. However, some users may initially find the spreadsheet-like interface unfamiliar and may struggle to adjust. If this is the case for you, Smartsheet may not be the ideal choice. Nevertheless, for those who embrace its capabilities and become proficient with the application, it can be utilized for a wide range of purposes, including project management, task tracking, customer relationship management (CRM), and online collaboration.

The flagship product of Smartsheet Inc., Smartsheet project management app, builds upon the foundation of traditional spreadsheets like Google Sheets or Microsoft Excel and transforms it into a powerful project management tool. Similar to how a spreadsheet accommodates diverse project types, Smartsheet offers extensive customisation options, enabling it to serve as a project management app, budget tracker, campaign tracker, and collaborative work tool.

Advantages:

Free forever plan and affordable paid plans starting at $7 per month

Highly powerful and customisable

Offers robust analytics and reporting tools

Ensures robust data protection and compliance

Disadvantages:

Steep learning curve initially

Requires add-ons for time tracking and resource management

Pages do not update in real-time

E-Builder is a comprehensive construction scheduling software designed with the needs of facility owners and construction experts in mind. This integrated system offers solutions for effective project management, budget control, and schedule optimisation. By connecting teams and departments, e-Builder ensures everyone involved in the project stays well-informed. This user-friendly tool enhances construction processes, saves time, reduces costs, and ensures successful project outcomes.

One of the notable advantages of e-Builder is its specialisation in scheduling government projects. It streamlines processes such as updating submittals, communication, and invoicing, specifically tailored to meet the unique requirements of government-related construction. However, mastering the software can be a bit challenging initially. Once users overcome the learning curve, they can easily organise documents and benefit from notifications that facilitate updates and changes throughout the project. The interface can be overwhelming and cluttered, but it offers a wealth of specific features for effective management of government-issued projects.

The software’s scheduling feature is particularly beneficial for large organisations with numerous employees. However, its usability may not be as intuitive as desired, and the absence of an autosave function can pose problems.

As an owner-centric project information management system, e-Builder serves as a reliable centralised repository and a knowledge base for enhancing performance. It empowers owners to measure and control every aspect of the capital project delivery process, spanning planning, design, procurement, construction, and operations. By utilising a cloud-based program management solution, owners gain advantages such as reduced cycle times, tangible cost savings, minimised risks, and exceptional productivity.

Pros

Streamlined processes and structured workflows.

Effective cost management.

Efficient document management.

Comprehensive reporting capabilities.

Cons

The general interface could benefit from a more modern design.

Limited customisation options for process page layouts.

Improvement needed in out-of-office delegation functionality.

Another option for managing project schedules is Procore, a construction management software that assists with various aspects of projects, including resources, finances, and planning. The software collects and presents up-to-date project data, acting as a central hub for teams and departments. It enables the creation of accurate and suitable schedules that align with the realities of the project and ensure future profitability. Procore is particularly beneficial for industry professionals like owners, general contractors, and specialty contractors.

For large construction projects, Procore stands out as the best construction scheduling software. It offers robust document management features specifically designed for construction management. It also provides time tracking capabilities for the job site. Construction project managers rely on Procore to address human resources, safety, and financial concerns related to scheduling. The software facilitates easy organization and access to construction-related documents, including an employee contact log that includes certification details. However, the billing system is confusing and does not meet industry standards.

While Procore is suitable for medium to large construction companies, it may be too cumbersome and expensive for smaller firms. Its strengths lie in engaging end-users in the planning process for future projects and improvements. However, it may not be the best choice when collaborating with architects, engineers, or subcontractors. The software’s integrations, especially with financials, can be inconsistent, and the bidding module does not update automatically.

Pros

Pros of using Procore include increased customer satisfaction and confidence, as well as improved visibility of projects for clients. The software streamlines project management, allowing superintendents to focus on the fieldwork and enhance quality, safety, and teamwork. Procore continually updates and offers opportunities for process improvement, such as integrating with Quickbooks for financial tracking and cost control.

Cons

However, the cost of Procore is a significant concern. It is crucial to fully embrace and implement the software throughout the company, rather than making its use optional. Selecting competent Company Administrators and providing them with adequate time for learning and setting up the software to meet specific needs is essential. Developing standard operating procedures helps team members understand how to use Procore in line with the company’s requirements. It is not a tool that can simply be purchased and distributed without proper implementation and training.

Autodesk Construction Cloud is a remarkable solution that enhances construction safety and sustainability by seamlessly connecting office and field teams, from design to operations. The platform offers an extensive range of tools and products, providing comprehensive support for construction processes. Users can effectively manage projects, create detailed schedules, control budgets, and access thorough reporting within the platform. Additionally, Autodesk Construction Cloud offers seamless integration with various accounting and building information modeling (BIM) systems. Overall, this cloud-based solution is ideal for enterprises with intricate processes.

Pros

One aspect to appreciate about Autodesk Construction Cloud is its ability to serve as a one-stop platform that bridges the gap between the office and the field, enabling various work methods. Thanks to this exceptional platform, many have reported being able to effectively work remotely while providing guidance to colleagues who are on-site. The introduction of this powerful platform has brought about a significant change for many companies through multiple ongoing construction projects.

Cons

However, some have reported challenges when it comes to opening projects from the cloud and synchronising them with Build, resulting in significant delays. Furthermore, there is room for improvement in terms of filters in Build. The current search process for a specific set of sheets can be quite cumbersome and could benefit from enhancements.

Assemble is a construction system designed to aid in data management and visualisation. It provides a range of tools for project management, scheduling, 3D moddeling, and data processing. Since 2018, Assemble has been part of Autodesk Construction Cloud, allowing for potential integration with other Autodesk products. For companies already using or interested in Autodesk solutions, Assemble offers a comprehensive package of tools to enhance their processes.

One of the key features of Assemble is its ability to leverage data for various aspects of construction projects, including design reviews, estimating, takeoffs, schedule management, value engineering, and change management. By quickly extracting model inventories, Assemble provides project teams with easy access to detailed information, improving work efficiency.

Teams can access BIM through a web browser, allowing for real-time collaboration and data-driven decision-making on designs, bids, and more. The extracted inventories also enable visualisation of model data, facilitating quantification of takeoffs, changes, and cost implications.

Assemble’s visual variance reporting tools are particularly useful for tracking changes in numerical model properties, such as length, area, cost, and weight. This feature allows for effective monitoring of project trends when combined with conceptual estimating for early project budgeting.

The software also includes level of development (LOD) tracking, which enables users to track model progression, make edits, and synchronise with the latest version of the model. Users can easily share modifications and descriptive data at the instance level before exporting custom data sets to other programs like Navisworks or Microsoft Excel.

Pros

Assemble can be used for a wide range of tasks, from bidding on projects to communicating work requirements to the team.

The software allows for customization of views and data analysis, providing flexibility and tailored insights.

Assemble harnesses the full power of BIM in a practical way, delivering value to both companies and clients.

Cons

There are a few long-standing bugs in the software, which may slightly inconvenience users. However, these bugs do not render the software unusable.

Buildertrend is a cloud-based software designed specifically for home builders, remodellers, residential builders, and specialty contractors in the construction industry. It offers a wide range of features for efficient project management, accurate estimating, and effective communication. In addition, Buildertrend provides data management capabilities to minimize errors, streamline processes, and maintain control over projects. This software is particularly suitable for companies that prioritise real-time collaboration.

Key advantages of Buildertrend include its user-friendly interface, which makes it easy to navigate and operate. Furthermore, the software offers reliable customer support to assist users with any queries or issues they may encounter. Although it comes at a cost, the price is justified by the excellent customer service and guidance provided. The well-designed dashboard and robust reporting tools are crucial for adhering to construction schedules. However, it should be noted that there is no free version available, requiring users to subscribe and pay for access. Unfortunately, the estimating functionality of Buildertrend is not up to par, as it is labor-intensive and inefficient. Additionally, the absence of message alerts can be frustrating for users.

Pros

Benefits of Buildertrend include its comprehensive toolkit, which enables methodical building processes. Features such as the documents folder for project drawings and specifications, as well as the integration with Xero, are highly advantageous. The software facilitates streamlined communication with trades, ensuring prompt payment. It is also an effective tool for organising multiple projects simultaneously. The ability to accurately track job costs and conveniently send out bills are additional benefits.

Cons

On the downside, Buildertrend lacks an autosave feature for to-do lists and daily logs, which can be inconvenient and frustrating. Losing all data if the program is accidentally closed is a notable drawback. It is important to note that difficulties with sub-contractors’ usage of online services cannot be attributed to Buildertrend itself. Some trades have reported struggling to adapt to the software, particularly when using it on their mobile phones.

Oracle Construction and Engineering’s Primavera solutions have been trusted by successful projects worldwide for over 30 years. These solutions are crucial for planning, constructing, and operating critical assets. Unlike any other solution, Primavera integrates project and portfolio planning and delivery teams, enabling efficient planning, resourcing, risk mitigation, scheduling, and program management. It is a robust and user-friendly platform that can handle projects of any size.

There are several key benefits of using Primavera. Firstly, it is cloud-based, ensuring fast implementation and delivering quick value. It provides a single platform for planning, prioritising, executing, and monitoring projects and programs. This allows for optimisation and oversight of capital spend to maximise return and align with strategies. It also enhances risk mitigation by providing better visibility of project and portfolio health. The comprehensive and integrated planning features include critical path method (CPM) and Lean scheduling, as well as upstream portfolio planning and downstream risk mitigation. Primavera also enables total resource management, allowing for the maintenance of optimal staffing levels to improve delivery efficiency. Collaboration and control across teams are facilitated, driving efficiency and quality while reducing waste. Teams can easily connect, access the platform from any device, create and update activities and tasks, and view portfolios and files even offline. The risk mitigation capabilities of Primavera help avoid delays and cost overrun.

Pros

In terms of pros, Primavera offers valuable features such as contract management, progress billing, construction management, change order issuance, and payment applications. These features streamline project processes and contribute to successful project delivery.

Cons

However, there are a few cons to consider. Firstly, the ability to request a change may be limited or not as straightforward as desired. Additionally, the upload of documents directly by the end user may not be supported, requiring additional steps for document management. Finally, direct inquiry of the client on a draw may not be integrated into the platform, necessitating separate communication channels.

Overall, Oracle Construction and Engineering’s Primavera solutions provide comprehensive and efficient project and portfolio management capabilities, ensuring successful project outcomes and optimized resource utilisation.

Efficient project scheduling and management are essential for the success of construction projects. In today’s digital age, there is a wide range of Construction Project Management (CPM) software options available to help construction firms streamline scheduling, enhance project control, and mitigate risks. Among these options, our top recommendation is SmartPM, the official software choice for CDI Experts. SmartPM stands out with its comprehensive Construction Analytics Software and Project Controls Platform, purpose-built for the construction industry. This software allows construction firms to analyse project schedules, identify delays, evaluate schedule quality, and conduct forensic delay analysis with remarkable speed and accuracy. By translating complex schedule file data into user-friendly reports, graphs, and analytics, SmartPM provides construction project stakeholders with invaluable insights to make informed decisions. With its user-friendly interface and exceptional customer experience, SmartPM is the ultimate tool for effective project scheduling and management. Find out more at here