Construction project management software

1 Introduction
2 History
3 Features of CPM software
4 Creating a CPM software checklist
5 Related articles on Designing Buildings

[edit] Introduction

Construction project management software (or CPMS) is a form of computer technology that can automate the manual activities associated with planning, organising, estimating, allocating resources and other aspects of construction projects. It is generally accepted that the use of project management software can increase the productivity of project managers and their teams by providing a tool to support communicating, decision making, administration and other essential tasks.

CPM software is designed to be used on a variety of construction project types, ranging from residential to industrial. Some types of software are better suited than others for certain types of projects.

CPMS includes desktop-based software and web-based software as a service (SaaS) options. Some include a mobile module, while others are available as purpose built mobile platforms or apps.

[edit] History

Modern CPM software has ties to the work of Henry Gantt, an American engineer who devised a diagrammatic form of project scheduling. Gantt came up with a timeline bar chart to serve as a visual representation based around two axes: the vertical axis features tasks and the horizontal axis shows time.

Referred to as the Gantt diagram or Gantt chart, this technique was used by Gantt on several important construction projects including the Hoover Dam, which was built in the US in the 1930s.The Gantt chart technique attempted to solve activity scheduling problems so the duration of a basic task could be represented on a horizontal bar, showing its start and completion date, and, by linking tasks, the total time required to complete an activity.

[edit] Features of CPM software

Gantt charts are often included in modern CPM software since they can be easily understood, even by those less familiar with scheduling tools. They continue to be one of the most widespread scheduling methods, as they adapt well to both small and large projects of all types.

These charts are some of the features included in CPM software designed to assist with two essential project management tasks: scheduling and gathering information.

The scheduling properties of CPM software can allow users to assign tasks, budgets and timelines to members of the project management team along with completion dates. The software can also be programmed to issue alerts around the unavailability of equipment, shortage of warehouse space, missing equipment, staff shortages, miscommunication and so on. It can also issue notifications in real time to relevant members of the team each time a task is completed or a problem is identified or resolved.