In the construction industry, utilizing software to enhance and improve workflows is becoming increasingly essential for staying competitive and meeting the growing demands of modern projects. This is particularly evident in the preconstruction phase, where the foundation for a successful project is laid. Traditional methods of managing these everyday tasks, such as spreadsheets and manual processes, are prone to errors and inefficiencies, which is why teams are relying on specialized software solutions to streamline these critical processes. 

But with the current software options available, how do you know which solution is right for you and for your specific preconstruction needs? The first step is understanding the difference between a platform and a point solution.

What is a platform?

A platform is an all-encompassing solution that manages multiple aspects of the preconstruction process. It is a comprehensive ecosystem of tools, services and features that integrate with other systems through APIs and other add-ons, supporting multiple workflows and processes. It comprises an array of features addressing the more than 30 different workflows and tasks involved in the preconstruction phase into one unified interface for a more holistic approach to managing a project from start to finish.

What is a point solution?

A point solution is focused on offering a specialized tool that addresses a specific need or workflow in the preconstruction process. For example, a point solution may be focused solely on the value engineering aspect of preconstruction and provide features and capabilities in that one area. Point solutions require integrations with other tools or platforms to cover the full scope of the preconstruction phase.

What are the benefits of a platform?

1. Unified and collaborative experience: Everything you need is consolidated into one easily accessible location for the whole preconstruction team. A unified platform eliminates the need to switch between multiple tools for your preconstruction workflows. Centralizing all preconstruction workflows into one area minimizes risk, boosts productivity, and simplifies processes for everyone involved in the preconstruction phase.

2. Adaptability and flexibility: Platforms are designed to evolve with their users, scaling seamlessly as their needs change. As platforms introduce new features, users can explore and expand with them, getting more and more value out of the platform. As users continue to engage with the platform, its value compounds, leading to stronger, more predictable growth, profitability and accuracy.

3. Cost and time savings: Using a platform vs. multiple point solutions can lead to significant time and cost savings and far fewer headaches. By consolidating multiple workflows into one platform, you streamline training and onboarding processes and reduce time spent acclimating your team to different tools. It allows you to eliminate inefficiencies involved with switching between solutions, integrating disparate systems and managing fragmented collaboration. Financially, users benefit from paying for just one platform as it allows for a unified approach and reduces expenses related to integration and maintenance.

4. Integration capabilities: Platforms support integration with other systems and third-party applications. This allows customers to centralize their data and their workflows in one main hub and also have the flexibility to integrate with select applications for very specific purposes. This connectivity fosters a collaborative approach to preconstruction by eliminating data silos, streamlining processes and improving overall collaboration and decision-making processes, ensuring a more cohesive preconstruction process.

ConCntric: The ideal platform solution

When it comes to preconstruction, ConCntric is unique in that we are the most comprehensive, purpose-built preconstruction management platform. While point solutions may offer specialized tools, as a unified solution, we provide an interface that simplifies complex workflows and ensures that all stakeholders are kept up-to-date and informed. 

When evaluating what’s best for your preconstruction process, consider this: Choosing ConCntric is like having a one-stop-shop for all of your needs, rather than running around to different stores to get what you need. If you are looking for a long-term, scalable solution that can adapt to your business needs, check out ConCntric in action by booking a demo here today.