CONSTRUCTION Accounting ARTICLE - Rolling Out New Construction Accounting SoftwareTarget Audience: Construction Industry Professionals, Business Owners, Contractors, Construction Accountants, Construction Office Managers In the midst of a flush of stimulus-related public projects, a small subcontractor was finding his old accounting system too slow and cumbersome. So, with little time to spare, he headed to the software market and chose a new system. Upon introducing the technology to his managers, however, the contractor was met with an unexpected response. Everyone had a gripe. His project manager saw a lot of bells and whistles but few useful on-site features, while his office manager was worried about the software’s compatibility with the company’s other applications. Frustrated, the contractor mentioned the dilemma to his financial advisor. Introducing your Construction Accounting Software to Your TeamThe advisor explained that the contractor’s problems began when he chose the software completely on his own. Because new technology affects the entire team, the entire team (or at least key members thereof) should have input on the choice. And while it may be impossible to please everyone, it’s possible to come close. Fortunately, the software came with a money-back guarantee and had yet to be fully implemented. So the advisor suggested the contractor gather feedback from his team, including thoughts on which features are “must haves” and which ones are “just wants,” and start again. Then he could work with his IT specialist on the tech side and the financial advisor on the accounting side to get everything just right. Coping with resistanceThe advisor warned that, once key team members have agreed on a system, the process isn’t over. While giving lower-level employees a say in the software selection process would likely create more problems than it solves, they’ll be using it, too. So the groundwork for a smooth implementation must be laid. Therefore, the next step in the process should include working with employees to overcome any fear or confusion about the prospective software. The advisor suggested announcing the plans to upgrade the accounting system immediately, giving a rundown of the company’s objectives for doing so and keeping staff updated on the effort’s progress. This approach can make the staff feel like they’re part of the initiative and help foster more rapid buy-in. Training is keyThis contractor needed to, shall we say, reboot his software implementation efforts to find success. But, once he did get it right — and provided the critical training needed to get the most from the system — his choice paid off. For just as teamwork on a job can lead the way to that project’s success, implementing new software also calls for a team effort. Find out how our expertise in construction accounting can add value to your business. Email us or call us at 1 (888) 875-9770.
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