Construction companies face a unique subset of challenges in implementing effective IT strategies to support their business. The challenges encountered are centered around the diversity of work roles.
These firms deal with the development of land, buildings, rehab, etc. The companies will be unique in that they typically run multiple companies out of one office or be centered on the remote aspects of the projects being worked on.
- Software utilized could be Sage Timberline several modules could be used from Accounting, Project Management, Estimating
- Remote workers utilizing VPN technology
- Remote email
- Terminal server Thin Client technologies
- Workers in most cases could be working in trailers
- Technology knowledge is extremely minimal on the end-users side of the business
- Uptime while always important is not a critical need in most cases
- Reliability and storage of files is important
- Loss of client information could translate into $$$ lost
- Collaboration tools could be important
- SharePoint and development opportunities possible
- Large amounts of data are present on the network (pictures, PPT, multimedia)
- FTP Data
- Mobile access to email
- Contact Management (Goldmine, ACT! or custom application)
- Mobile device access