Managing Change Orders: A Persistent Challenge in Construction

Many construction companies in Kansas City and beyond struggle with managing change orders, often turning to the internet with phrases like “best way to integrate Procore” or “alternative solutions for Procore limitations.” Such frustrations arise from inefficient workflows and the resulting delays that lead to costly overruns.

Why Change Order Issues Persist in Construction

In the construction industry, managing change orders is fraught with challenges. Many rely on platforms like Procore, PlanGrid, and Buildertrend, yet these tools sometimes lack seamless integration capabilities. Change orders often get tangled in a web of miscommunication or incomplete data exchange between software platforms. This complexity is exacerbated by standalone systems unable to talk to each other efficiently, leading to manual errors and fragmented data.

The Cost of Overlooking Efficient Change Order Management

Ignoring efficient change order management has tangible costs. A delay in processing can mean hefty financial overruns and disrupted project timelines. According to industry metrics, poor change order management can inflate project costs by up to 20%. This not only burdens budgets but can also tarnish company reputations, especially in competitive markets like the Midwest.

Streamlining Change Orders with Integrative Solutions

Here’s how construction firms can solve these persistent issues with custom software solutions:

Seamless Procore Integration

• Assess Current Workflows: Start by reviewing where change orders commonly bottleneck.
• Implement Custom APIs: Develop APIs that ensure seamless data flow between Procore and other tools like Sage 300 and Bluebeam.
• Automate Routine Tasks: Use automation to update tasks once a change order is approved, minimizing manual data entry.

Move Beyond Spreadsheets

• Centralize Data Storage: Replace Excel sheets with an integrated database connected to Procore.
• Real-Time Collaboration: Enable real-time updates to eliminate lag in information dissemination across teams.

Avoiding Common Pitfalls

To ensure success, here are some common mistakes to avoid:

• Over-Reliance on Default Settings: Default integrations can be limited; custom solutions often provide better results.
• Lack of Staff Training: Without proper training on new systems, efficiency gains may not be realized.
• Neglecting Scale: Failing to consider future expansion can render a solution ineffective over time.

Real-World Success Stories

Midwest Construction Company

A Kansas City-based company faced frequent delays due to fragmented change order processes using Procore. By implementing custom integrations, they reduced processing time by 40%, improving project timelines and cost efficiency.

Success in Miami

A construction firm operating from Kansas City to Miami integrated Procore with Bluebeam, ensuring smoother document handling and change processing, allowing for proactive management and fewer disruptions.

When Custom Solutions Are Essential

While off-the-shelf tools provide a starting point, they often fall short for complex needs. Custom workflows and integrated solutions provide uniquely tailored efficiencies that general software can't. For construction firms with specific operational needs, crafting custom software becomes a strategic advantage in managing change orders.

Taking the Next Step Towards Efficiency

If you're grappling with inefficient change order processes, understanding your workflow intricacies is the first step. Our Kansas City-based team offers expertise honed from local and national projects, positioned as your partner, working together to streamline your operations from Kansas City to Miami. Reach out for a consultation to explore tailored solutions.