Purchasing construction accounting software is a big step towards streamlining accounting. As exciting as it may be to finally try out the new software, it is important that the implementation is successful. A poor implementation can really hamper the effectiveness and have negative consequences as a result.

Poor Implementation Pitfalls

Poor Knowledge Base

One of the biggest effects of a poor implementation is that the knowledge base is smaller. A poor understanding of how to use the software to begin with makes things all the more difficult. The whole goal of construction accounting software is to streamline processes and make things easier. Poor understanding of the software makes that goal impossible.

Not Taking Full Advantage of Software

Another result of poor implementation is the user not being able to fully take advantage of the software. Not having a good grasp on the software can lead the user to perform either incorrect or inefficient actions. For example, the user may pull job cost data from the software to manually create WIP reports, not knowing that that function is already in the system.

Tips For Successful Implementation

Do the Homework

When implementing new software, the user undergoes training on how to use it. It is wholly imperative that the user stay on top of this training and completes any assignments (homework) given. The homework is especially important because it reinforces what the user learned in the previous training session.

Embrace the Change

One pitfall that many companies fall into when implementing new construction accounting software is that they try to use it in the same way as the previous software. Since users are more familiar with the previous software, the attempt to make the new software as similar to the other as possible. This practice really gets in the way of users being able to truly utilize the new construction accounting software. Users must fully embrace that tasks will performed differently than before because it is a new system. Remember, there is a reason why the new software was chosen in the first place. Trying to turn the new software into the old software will just lead to disappointment and frustration. Embrace the change.

Have the Right Equipment

Having the proper equipment to use the software is another important step for a successful implementation. Whether the software is web-based or hosted on a server, users must have fully functioning computers. Slow performing PCs can really make life difficult when trying to use the software, or just trying to get work done in general. At the bare minimum, PCs should have Windows 8, 4GB of ram and 256GB of Hard Drive memory. Servers that will host the program locally should have at least a 1.4GHz processor and 4GB of ram, ideally 8GB if virtual machines will be used.

When implementing new construction accounting software construction firms must go in with an open mind and healthy appetite for learning. To ensure that a return on the investment is realized, firms must make sure that implementing the software successfully is a main priority. A successful implementation will enable users to hit the ground running.