Construction planning software is being widely used in the building industry today. Their features foster greater efficiency and productivity on construction sites, which is why even startup firms are already considering using one in their projects.
But when selecting a construction project management software to use, one of the most critical factors in your decision will be whether to deploy it on-premise or in the cloud.
Obviously, more firms are on the cloud, making it more convenient for them to access data anytime and anywhere and share important files in real-time. This can be possible on on-premise offerings by leveraging the power of messengers and emails, but wouldn’t be more effective for your laborers to cut out the techy procedures and make them “to the point.”
Although it obviously requires more effort to run a construction software on the on-premise environment, the fact that the fee can cover a lifetime usage makes it the better route to take for most small and mid-size businesses.
Deciding which one is really the right option for your organization all depends on you. But today, we’re making a rundown on the features of each software environment to make it easier for you to decide.
Cloud vs On-Premise Construction Software
The fundamental difference between a cloud-based and on-premise construction productivity software is where it resides. Basically, the on-premises software is installed locally on computers and supported by a local or rented server. Whereas a cloud-based software is hosted on the vendor’s server and all apps can be accessed on any device that can connect to the internet.
Accessibility is the biggest advantage of cloud over on-premise. But there are a raft of other considerations to look into like software ownership, updates, cost, and additional services like support and software implementation.
Cloud-based construction project management software advantages
- Accessibility – Cloud-based software, like we mentioned, can be accessed anytime, anywhere, and on any device. For as long as you have an internet connection, you can open files and check data via the world wide web.
- Affordability – the up-front cost of cloud software is relatively more affordable. The plans are flexible too, where you can pay the fee per month or annually. What’s better news is that updates, maintenance, and support are already included in the fee you pay.
- Predictable costs – Monthly/annual payments are predictable unless you are shifting to a new plan. There will be no additional payments for licenses, upgrades, and daily back-ups.
- Worry-free IT – Since your software is hosted by your provider, you shouldn’t worry about the maintenance or upgrade as your provider will already take care of them for you. They will alert you when an update is available so you can update anytime you wish to and sends you maintenance schedule notices too so you can backup or save your data.
- Strong Security – No need to employ an IT specialist to take care of your cybersecurity as your provider will already take care of it for you. Cloud service providers make sure they employ up-to-date security features to protect their clients’ sensitive data from getting hacked.
- Quick deployment– Cloud-based software can be used right out of the box. Once fees are paid, you can already start using the software without going through puzzling IT works, compared to on-premise applications that need to be installed on all devices in your firm and the site.
- Scalability – You only get what you pay for so you can define your needs and your provider will find you the best plans that can provide everything you need and eliminate those that you don’t to get extra savings.
Cloud-based construction project management software disadvantages
- Connectivity – You will need a strong internet connection to enjoy the real-time delivery of data on the software. When the connection is weak, the transfer of data will be delayed
- Long-term costs – Although cloud construction software requires lesser upfront costs, the fact that you’ll need to pay on a periodic basis can make it expensive when you use it long-term.
On-premise construction project management software advantages
- One-time Cost – On-premise software only requires a license for it to start working. It can be expensive but the cost can cover lifetime use unless you choose to upgrade in the future.
- Complete control – After paying for the license, the software becomes completely yours so you can decide on the configuration and system changes.
- Uptime – On-premise software work even without internet but data sharing will only be possible when you connect to the internet.
On-premise construction project management software
disadvantages
- Large capital expenditure – As we mentioned, the upfront fee can be expensive. When you need maintenance and servicing, you will also need to pay extra.
- Responsibility for maintenance – If you are not tech-savvy or an IT expert, then maintaining your software will be a problem. The solution is to hire an IT expert which means additional expenses on your side.
- Longer implementation times – Installation on all PCs/devices in your firm can take time as well as configuration. You should consider allotting time for tests before fully implementing them in your team. In other words, it can take time before you can enjoy the benefits of your investment.
But Why is Cloud Better?
While on-premise construction planning software has its own wonderful advantages, cloud-based software is still dubbed better than on-premise due to its flexibility, reliability, and security. The construction industry is a fast-paced workplace and data needs to be delivered in real-time to avoid confusion and possible litigations.Apart from real-time access to systems and data from a variety of devices, the up-time of the software is guaranteed up to 99%, making it more reliable in the construction industry than on-premises software.So Which is right for my business?
There is no right or wrong when choosing the right software environment. Every firm has its unique needs and depending on those needs, you should be able to pinpoint the best option.
There are a number of cloud-based construction software provider you will find out there. But Pro Crew Schedule is something you might want to look into because of its advanced features and its affordable pricing.
Make sure to start using a construction project management software today and up your firm’s technology game.
