Top 10 Best Construction ERPs For Australia & How To Choose One

How important is a construction ERP? Every construction project has its own distinct and stringent set of criteria, whether it be for residential, commercial, industrial, or infrastructure projects.

Let's learn about construction ERP and how Australia-based construction companies adopt a specific solution to overcome industry obstacles.

What Is Construction ERP?

1. What is the core difference between a construction ERP vs an ERP?

An enterprise resource planning (ERP) system provides the central data hub for many business activities to streamline processes and increase productivity. Consider it a digital command centre that coordinates and oversees vital facets of your business's everyday operations.

Read more: Explaining ERP modules by business functions.

A construction ERP system is a specific ERP software created to simplify and maximise different functions of construction companies. It is a centralised data system that oversees and integrates important functions to complete a construction project.

Essentially, While ERP software aims to optimise processes, construction ERP is specially designed to tackle the unique challenges for construction companies. Here are the main distinctions:

• Industry focus: While regular ERPs can serve various industries, construction ERPs are specifically designed to meet the requirements of the construction sector.
• Features: While generic ERP software handles multiple business operations, construction ERPs stand out by providing specialised functions like project and field management, which are essential for successful construction projects.

2. What are the essential features of construction ERP software?

Construction ERP software provides special tools tailored to the demands of the sector. Examine these features to gain more insights before selecting one:

3. What are the pros & cons of using an ERP system in construction?

How construction ERP helps businesses

Construction ERP software become a vital tool to streamline business operations in the complicated world of construction, where time and margins are limited. Providing unmatched visibility and control, it works as a centralised platform that combines your project management, financial control, supply chain coordination, and field operations.

Implementing ERP can be transformative in the following ways:

• Eliminated communication silos
• Quick-access & safe document management
• Integrated project scheduling management
• Accurate & optimised project costing & finance management
• Real-time office and field synchronisation
• Optimised resource management

Read the details: 6 Ways Construction Software Transforms Your Project Delivery.

Challenges to consider in advance

Although construction ERP has many advantages, several obstacles must be considered when putting it into practice and making good use of it. The following are some major challenges that your company may face:

• Initial cost and implementation: Construction ERP systems can be costly to establish initially and to maintain continuously, both in terms of licence fees and other expenses. To add to the overall burden, implementation calls for training expenditures, a committed workforce, and possible difficulties with data movement. Small businesses can find these expenses difficult to bear. The majority of ERP implementations go 3 or 4x over budget.
• Change management: Your employees can be reluctant to implement a new system because they are already familiar with the current workflows. Training is important, but to minimise disruptions and maximise user buy-in, it's also necessary to break through ingrained behaviours and ensure user adoption.
• Data integration: It can be difficult to integrate construction ERP with your current accounting, HRM, or other software. Technical know-how and cautious configuration are needed. Inaccurate or incomplete data integration might cause inconsistent results and reduce the efficacy of the system.
• Security concerns: Construction projects involve sensitive data. To protect your confidential information from breaches and guarantee adherence to industry standards, you must put strong security measures and user access controls in place.
• Customisation challenges: Construction ERP provides basic features, however customisation may be necessary to meet your unique business requirements. Customisation choices may vary in cost and availability depending on the vendor and system, which could lead to a discrepancy between the ideal functionality and the current solution.
• Vendor selection and support: It's important to select the best construction ERP provider. To prevent compatibility problems or insufficient support later on, you must carefully consider features, scalability, compatibility, and continuing maintenance alternatives.
• Continuous learning and user engagement: Maximising the system's benefits requires maintaining user engagement and making sure that learning never stops. To help users adapt and fully utilise the system, regular training sessions, knowledge-sharing events, and clear communication about its benefits are all recommended.

By being aware of these obstacles and proactively overcoming them, your company may successfully navigate the installation process and fully utilise construction ERP.

3 Best Construction ERP Software For Australia

Although the ideal construction ERP can satisfy your unique needs, three of the best platforms we've featured in our list are as follows:

1. Microsoft Dynamics 365

Construction businesses can monitor and manage all aspects of their business with Microsoft Dynamics 365, an AI-powered construction ERP solution, on a single platform. Flexible support for mobile platforms and role-based user experiences make it simple for employees to stay productive whether they're at the office, on the job, or somewhere in between. Strong workflow automation and business intelligence features guarantee that projects are completed on schedule.

2. Deltek Vantagepoint

Deltek Vantagepoint ERP is a complete solution created especially for the construction sector. It provides numerous functions, such as financial reporting, resource management, contract administration, cost control, and project planning and scheduling. Construction organisations can leverage Deltek's solution to increase decision-making, efficiency, and project visibility.

3. SAP Business One

ERP solution SAP Business One is an all-inclusive construction ERP solution that is developed to help construction companies increase productivity and operate with efficiency. SAP Business One's features, which include resource management, budgeting, costing, and project scheduling, enable companies to optimise resource allocation and gain insightful information on projects.

4. Accentis Enterprise

Accentis Enterprise is a full-featured ERP created especially for Australian businesses. The ERP provides many features, such as logistics management, project management, financial management, and resource management. It is a great option for construction companies looking for a trusted and effective ERP solution because of its user-friendly interface, extensive industry knowledge, and local assistance.

5. CMap.io

CMap is a feature-rich ERP system with financial monitoring, document management, project management, and CRM. These features can be tailored specifically for construction enterprises. Its customisable dashboards and reporting tools offer insightful data on project performance and financial health. Construction businesses can use CMap to increase productivity, cut expenses, and ensure project success.

6. Viewpoint

The core of Viewpoint's ERP is a financial system for construction. With its cloud platform, ViewpointOne integrates project and field product management with the top ERP offerings in the market. This ERP includes modules designed specifically for a range of construction industries, including civil, electrical, highway, or general heavy.

7. Sage 300

Sage 300 is another ideal ERP option for real estate and construction companies. It provides robust functions including workflow automation, document management, and financial consolidation. Businesses can improve cash flow, make better decisions, and streamline processes. Professionals in real estate and construction can benefit greatly from its capacity to handle property information, servicing requests, and lease expirations.

8. Oracle Fusion Cloud

As a comprehensive ERP product of Oracle, Oracle Fusion Cloud provides capabilities including automation, business integration, and AI and ML-powered analytics. It assists building firms in streamlining operations and cutting down on manual labour. With Oracle Fusion Cloud, companies can increase productivity and concentrate on their core competencies.

9. Epicor

Epicor is an ERP suite with add-on modules suitable for various industries including the construction sector. Epicor operates both on-premises and as a cloud ERP. The system helps manage different business functions, from project management and quality control to customer relationship management. This ERP is highly adaptable and simple to set up for your particular construction industry.

10. Pronto Xi

Pronto Xi is a highly adaptable construction ERP solution for Australia, with analytics, real-time data access, and contract administration capabilities. It facilitates operational efficiency, enhances teamwork, and lowers errors in key construction tasks. Using Pronto Xi, businesses can improve decision-making, achieve compliance with industry rules, and obtain useful data on project performance.

Success Case Study: Sydney-Based Architects Transformed With Cloud Construction ERP

1. JCB Architects

For over 25 years, a renowned Sydney-based architectural business - JCB Architects, specialises in excellent design solutions. JCB has a solid reputation for producing sustainable designs, with a concentration on education, public sector, multi-residential, and commercial projects.

What challenges did they encounter?

JCB Architects encountered several difficulties with their current project management and accounting systems as they grew and diversified their project portfolio. Some were:

• Data silos: It was challenging to gain a complete awareness of projects and business operations due to the dispersed data across different systems.
• Limited integration: The lack of integration between various systems caused inefficiency and bottlenecks.
• Manual procedures: A lot of work was still done manually, which resulted in mistakes and delays.

Finding a proper solution

JCB Architects selected Deltek Vantagepoint as its construction ERP system to deal with these issues. This choice turned out to be revolutionary for the company. Deltek ERP benefited JCB Architects in the following three main ways:

• Better visibility and collaboration: By eliminating data silos, Deltek Vantagepoint gave JCB a more consolidated perspective of their projects, assets, and budget. It contributed to better decision-making and team collaboration.
• Streamlined processes: Deltek ERP automates a large number of JCB's manual tasks, which decreases errors and increases productivity.
• Improved financial control: JCB Architects were able to track project costs more precisely and make well-informed budgetary decisions with Deltek’s ERP solution.

2. Fender Katsalidis

Fender Katsalidis - a Melbourne-based architecture and design firm, is well-known for its creative approach to design and award-winning projects. The company specialises in hotel, commercial, residential, and cultural projects; some of the highest structures in the Southern Hemisphere are part of its portfolio.

What challenges did they encounter?

Even with their success, Fender Katsalidis had trouble keeping track of their cash and initiatives at times. Typical difficulties included:

• Limited visibility: The company found it hard to access up-to-date data on project expenses, resource usage, and financial performance.
• Ineffective processes: Manual data input and a deficiency in system integration caused delays and inconsistencies.
• Challenges in data sharing: It took a lot of time and effort to share financial data between teams, which hindered decision-making and teamwork.

Finding a proper solution

Using Deltek Vantagepoint as their construction ERP solution, Fender Katsalidis was able to overcome these difficulties. This choice turned out to be remarkable for the company, yielding numerous significant advantages:

• Enhanced transparency & visibility: Deltek ERP gave Fender Katsalidis latest data on the project's costs, resource utilisation, and financial outcomes. The company was able to pinpoint areas for improvement and make better decisions.
• Streamlined processes: Deltek Vantagepoint considerably increased productivity and decreased the amount of time spent on admin tasks by automating manual operations.
• Better cooperation: By keeping teams in sync and focusing on shared objectives, the system promoted improved team communication and cooperation.

Is It A Big Yes? Here Are The Tips To Select Your Best Fit

1. Identify your specific requirements & resources

This is the first and most important step. You may select a system that is specific to your organisation and not just another software burden by knowing your targeted objectives (like cost control or improved project tracking) and your pain points. Additionally, although larger companies may require sophisticated functionality, smaller businesses can prioritise user-friendly solutions:

• Needs and requirements: Identify your problems and desired results before moving further. Do you have trouble with reporting, cost control, or project management? Which particular features are crucial for your company?
• Business size & budget: Take into account your resources. while larger enterprises might need advanced functionality, smaller businesses prioritise user-friendly solutions. Budget sensibly to guarantee affordability.
• Data readiness & expertise: Is your data well-structured and tidy? What degree of technical proficiency does your team have? Select a system that is both simple for your team to use and compatible with the data type you use.

2. Evaluate different vendors & software options

Consider this as conducting a study on various building materials. Here, you may evaluate top suppliers and create a shortlist of solutions that fit your budget and requirements. Having direct experience with its usability and functionality enables you to make well-informed decisions that best meet your specific needs:

• Vendor evaluation: Look into reputable suppliers and make a short list of choices that fit your requirements and price range. Examine features, cost structures, and customer service offerings.
• Software demos & trials: Make sure to test-drive the programme and request demos to evaluate its functioning and user-friendliness.

3. Look for scalability and future growth potential

We understand that construction isn't static. Choose a system that adapts and grows with your business. Consider potential expansion plans and ensure the software can accommodate them: 

• Select a system that can develop and expand along with your company. Think about your goals for future growth and make sure the software can handle it.
• Ongoing Development: Choose a supplier who has a history of updating and improving their products regularly.

4. Prioritise user-friendliness and ease of implementation

The workforce that contributes to your success is your team. Give top priority to a system that has an easy-to-use interface and requires little training so that your team can adopt it with ease. In this manner, you can reduce disturbance and enhance the advantages of the system:

• Ease of use: Give special attention to a system that has a simple user interface and requires little training. It should be easy for your team to implement and maximise its advantages
• Implementation: Recognise the timetable and procedure for implementation. Select a provider who can minimise operational impact by providing seamless deployment help.

5. Seek references and user reviews

Never do this on your own. By learning from the experiences of others, you can steer clear of possible dangers, make wise choices, and select a system that has worked well in comparable settings:

• References: Talk to current users of the system you're thinking about as references. Enquire about their accomplishments, difficulties, and experiences.
• User reviews: To learn from other construction companies, read online forums and reviews.

6. Negotiate pricing and consider ongoing support options

Be confident when negotiating prices. Recall that long-term value is not always ensured by a competitive price:

• Negotiate pricing: Don't hesitate to haggle over prices under your requirements and spending capacity. Think of the overall cost of ownership, which includes continuing support, implementation, and licencing.
• Support options: Select a provider of dependable and prompt technical assistance for your needs. Look into upkeep schedules and make sure you can get help when you need it.

Being aware of these guidelines and carefully weighing the advantages of each will help you select the ideal construction ERP system. Selecting the appropriate system is only the first step, though. To guarantee seamless adoption and optimise the system's advantages, invest in appropriate adoption and thorough training for your staff. 

Keep in mind that the most important key is a successful partnership with the vendor of your choice. Make use of their support services to handle any problems and guarantee ongoing system optimisation, which will enable you to improve your building procedure and accomplish long-term achievement. Our team of Havi experts can guide your company through each phase of its ERP implementation. We may either handle everything for you from beginning to end (with continuous support) or you can choose just the services that are best in the business. Have a drink of coffee and tell us more.

Construction ERP - Frequently Asked Questions

1. What are the key features of ERP systems for the construction industry?

Important features can be as follows:

• Construction Accounting
• Design & Planning
• Workflow Automation
• Contractor Management
• Payroll
• Financials
• Fleet Management
• Scheduling
• Logistics & Transport
• Workforce Management
• Inventory Management
• Project Management
• Compliance Management
• Document Management
• CRM
• Mobile Accessibility
• Resource Planning
• Bid Management

2. How can I select the best construction ERP for my company?

Take into consideration factors such as:

• Requirements and complexity of the business
• Specific requirements and standards
• Budget
• Vendor support
• Future growth and scalability

3. How much does it cost to implement an ERP for construction companies?

The size of your company, the software you select, and the level of customisation you need will all affect how much it costs to deploy a construction ERP. It's critical to take into account both the initial cost and ongoing costs like maintenance, support, and licencing fees.

References:

• Deltek. (2020). Leading Design and Architecture firm Fender Katsalidis transforms finance with Deltek ERP
• Deltek. (2024). JCB Architects Achieves Unified Project Insights with Deltek Vantagepoint in the Cloud
• Technology Evaluation Centers (2022). ERP Software Facts and Lessons Learned: How to Avoid ERP Failure?