How to Train Employees to Use Construction Management Software

As a home builder or remodeler, it can seem nearly impossible to keep track of everything when you’re managing your projects through spreadsheets, email, phone calls, and text messages.

The solution is construction project management software, but the tricky part is getting everyone involved in your projects to use it. 

So, how can you get everyone on your team, even the most stubborn, on board with using the same tool? Well, the first step is to use construction management software that’s super easy for your team to learn and use.

If you're having trouble getting your team to adopt the tools you use to run your business, we're here to guide you with the steps you can take to get everyone on board.

Why do you need everyone on the team using construction management software?  

$7,000 ... out the window.

One of the primary reasons it’s good for your whole team to work from the same software is communication. It’s all centralized. Your communication with the team, subs, and clients is all in one convenient place. When the team is in unity and working from the same software, they’re also working more efficiently. Schedules are consistent. Everyone knows what everyone else is up to. And getting everyone on the same page doesn’t have to be such a challenge. 

At the end of the day, mistakes are made and money is lost when everyone isn't on the same page. In fact, it was our own $7,000 mistake that led us to create BuildBook in the first place.

Here's a step-by-step guide to help you with the training process:

1. Understand the Software: 

Before you start training the team, get familiar with the construction project management software yourself. It won’t take long to understand the features, capabilities, and how it can streamline the construction process.

2. Identify Training Needs: 

Determine the specific roles and responsibilities of the employees who will be using the software. Identify their existing skill levels and knowledge gaps related to project management and software usage.

3. Create Training Materials: 

Develop comprehensive training materials. You’ll want to include user manuals, step-by-step guides, video tutorials, and interactive demonstrations. Tailor these materials to match the roles and tasks of the different employee groups.

Protip: Talk to your software provider about providing these materials for your team. At BuildBook, our support team has done all of this work, so all you need to do is pass it along.

4. Conduct Training Sessions:

Organize training sessions that cater to different learning styles. Conduct in-person workshops, webinars, or virtual training sessions to accommodate remote workers. Hands-on training and real-world scenarios will help.

5. Practice with Real Projects: 

Instead of generic exercises, use real construction projects to simulate various scenarios. Encourage employees to practice using the software with these projects to get a feel for real-life situations.

6. Assign Mentors or Super Users:

Choose skilled employees or “super users” who have mastered the software to act as mentors. They can provide additional support and guidance to their peers during the learning process.

7. Encourage Questions and Feedback:

Create an open and supportive learning environment. You want employees to feel comfortable asking questions. Answer their concerns quickly to ensure a smoother learning experience.

8. Offer Continued Learning Opportunities: 

Software updates and improvements are common. Provide ongoing training opportunities to keep your team up-to-date with new features and functionalities.

9. Measure Progress and Provide Support: 

Check in on each employee’s progress regularly during and after the training. Offer additional support or refresher sessions if needed.

10. Recognize and Reward Progress: 

Acknowledge your team’s efforts in learning and adopting the software. Recognize achievements and celebrate successful implementation.

11. Integrate Software Usage into Workflows: 

Encourage your team to incorporate the software into their daily routines, like creating daily logs. Emphasize the benefits of using the software for better project management, communication, and collaboration.

12. Evaluate the Impact: 

Give it a few months, then assess the impact of the software on project efficiency, communication, and overall performance. Gather feedback from employees and management to understand the software's effectiveness. 

Remember that successful software adoption takes time. Be patient and supportive throughout the training process. If the construction project management software provider offers training or support resources, take advantage of those resources as well.