I could be wrong, but I infer that you are an aspiring owner/builder any your bank won't finance your building project without you partnering with an experienced GC. I suggest you pick your G.C. and then get user access to their project management software.

@Mark Bischak,

I think you've confused software and soft wear. No worries. I still draft plans by hand, although my techie architect (should that be archi-techie?) uses CAD.

Lol...ok.

So I do the design portion of it already. This general contractor is very successful but has done old school- on paper-accounting for the last 30+ years. I don’t mind saying I’m the new kid on the block that doesn’t mind being picked on as long as I can learn at the same time. He’s going to help teach me the process and is open to my suggestion to bringing software program that will help keep everything on one spot. Sure would love your professional expert advice 🧐

The software needs to fit the process--- not the process fit the software. You'll be in a better position to assess which software is the right choice after you've completed a project. Introducing a new method or even running it in tandem with the "old" process will add time and complexity.

Thank you Charles

I utilize Google Docs/Drive and create my own spreadsheets. Over the years, I've refined them to include exactly what I need.

The trick is blending the old and the new. I'd start with familiarizing myself with the business completely. Integrating software would be impossible without that knowledge.

It's not the software but the knowledge of the tool using it. If you cannot keep basic track on paper software will not help.

I don't think any of the GCs I used in the past and I am using currently, rely on software to run their business. The common elements between these good (and successful) GCs is good quality reliable sub-contractors and a small crew of skilled workers who are full time employees. All of them also made and followed a schedule, be it on paper or a spreadsheet.

I started using Monday.com about 2-1/2 years ago to keep organized on our jobs. August of last year we started inviting our customers in on the app allowing them to be part of the conversation. It has really helped keep each topic organized.

For example, if I want to find out what they wanted for cabinet hardware, I look in the cabinet category I've created and can see the previous conversations we had with the client about that topic.

The app is not designed for any particular business category. This means that it is really versatile, but also requires you to do a fair bit of setup to get it how you want to function. Although I've been using it for 2-1/2 years, I don't feel like I've really tapped into the full capability of the software yet. Just this morning I was working on improving the format of a gantt timeline on a kitchen remodel. Previously how I set it up had every sub in the same color, I'm trying to get it color coded by sub. Little things like this require more time to setup, but once completed are very useful. I love that my clients can view everything. Reduces the number of calls I receive from the client as well. Some of my subs love the app, while others won't touch it. Honestly I don't care if they're on board or not, I can update anything related to their trade without their involvement. I like this because I don't want to alienate any subs due to their resistance to technology. Not going to ask the flip-phone guy to respond to a question in an app...

We looked into project management software as well but found they didn't give us the ability to manage multiple small tasks (i.e. install a window, or replace a sink) easily. But, they are probably better for managing a large project like a house. Also they are a lot more expensive.

Hello DB:),

This is exactly the information I am needing! Thank for taking your valuable time in sharing the details with me.

I do plan on starting out learning the processes for several months before implementing software. I just don’t want to let my partner down or be a burden to him so I’m being proactive. I know design and small remodel projects very well but as for the total build of a spec home I have a lot to learn. Any input or suggestions I always take as constructive criticism-thats how we learn ❤️