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The Experts in Developing and Delivering Cloud Construction ERP, Construction Accounting and Project Management, Software Solutions

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Edwards Family of Companies Selects eCMS v.4.2 ERP from Computer Guidance Corporation

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Edwards Family of Companies Selects eCMS v.4.2 ERP from Computer Guidance Corporation to Drive Integrated Financial and Project Management for Water Treatment Solutions and Civil Construction

SCOTTSDALE, Ariz. — November 13, 2024 — Computer Guidance Corporation (CGC), a leader in cloud-based ERP solutions tailored for the construction industry, announced today that the Edwards Family of Companies has chosen CGC’s eCMS Construction Cloud ERP to power its growing operations.

Based in Sacramento, California, Edwards Family of Companies has built a strong reputation for delivering water treatment solutions, wholesale distribution, erosion control, stormwater compliance, and heavy highway construction services. As the result of recent growth, the company has expanded and diversified its services, adding new business units along the way. These changes meant that Edwards Family of Companies would require an advanced, integrated solution to support its growth.

After carefully assessing CGC’s solution, Edwards Family of Companies selected eCMS Construction Cloud ERP for its reputation and performance in the construction sector. The platform’s reliability and construction-focused capabilities made it the ideal choice to support the company’s ambitious goals.

“To keep pace with our rapid growth while maintaining our ability to deliver superior service, we wanted a solution that seamlessly connects our teams in the field and the office and enables accounting, payroll, and project management to access real-time data on demand,” said Kaycie Edwards, CEO of Arctos Erosion Control, an Edwards Family of Companies. “We believe CGC’s eCMS ERP platform, with its mobile capabilities, single-database approach, and robust features like inventory management, job costing, billing, and advanced business intelligence, will allow us to make faster, more informed decisions and drive our business forward.”

Steven Gross, Vice President of Client Solutions at Computer Guidance Corporation, added, “The impact of eCMS for contractors like Edwards Family of Companies is significant. Our platform enhances collaboration across all key teams, automates and synchronizes workflows, and provides a unified, real-time view of data anytime, anywhere.”

As Edwards Family of Companies embarks on this new chapter, eCMS Construction Cloud ERP will be a critical tool in achieving their commitment to operational excellence and continued growth.

About Computer Guidance Corporation
With over 20% of their clients represented on top ENR lists, Computer Guidance Corporation delivers the leading construction enterprise resource planning solution including financial and project management, #1 business intelligence, mobile, and enterprise content management.  Scalable, customizable, and cloud-hosted, CGC serves thousands throughout North America. Computer Guidance Corporation is part of the JDM Technology Group, a global construction-specific software conglomerate that serves more than 500,000+ in 40 countries and 6 continents.

Computer Guidance’s Parent Company, JDM Technology Group, Acquires Degama Systems

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Toronto, Ontario –  October 21, 2024 – JDM Technology Group, a global leader in providing best in class ERP software solutions, has acquired Degama Systems, a prominent ERP software provider to the transportation industry. Degama was owned by Streamline Transportation Technologies and Tom Greenwood. The transaction closed on October 15th with approval from the owners.

Degama is a trusted provider of cloud based trucking management software to fleets across Canada and the United States. Its comprehensive ERP software helps mid-size and large trucking firms streamline accounting and operations for maximum efficiency.

“Like JDM, Degama was built on a foundation of strong customer relationships and a desire to help businesses work efficiently across their entire operation,” said Streamline CEO Mitchell Zulinick and Degama President Tom Greenwood in a joint statement on the transaction. “We believe Degama and its customers will see substantial benefits from this new ownership, which shares our commitment to customer satisfaction and long term growth.”

As a global company with more than 30 software businesses worldwide, JDM Technology Group has extensive software expertise and a global development team.  The company is known for its people first approach and commitment to never “end of life” its software.

“We’re pleased to welcome Degama to the JDM team,” said CEO Jim McFarlane. “Acquiring Degama is part of our ongoing buy and build strategy. It strengthens our ERP portfolio and expands our ability to provide integrated, end to end solutions to our clients. We look forward to working with the Degama team to continue building on its long standing tradition of innovation.”

Degama Systems will continue to operate as its own brand. Tom Greenwood will assist with the transition.

About Degama

Degama is a leading provider of ERP software to the transportation industry. It offers more than a dozen modules, including accounting, dispatch, and fleet maintenance – all designed to streamline business operations and improve efficiency. With a focus on innovation and customer satisfaction, Degama has been serving mid size to large trucking firms across Canada and the United States for more than 40 years.

About JDM Technology Group

JDM Technology Group is a global software business focused on delivering B2B software systems for the design, operations, construction, and maintenance industries with more than 17,000 customers in 40 countries on 7 continents, employing 600+ staff. The JDM Technology Group’s core philosophy is a long-term commitment to customer support and service coupled with providing the best possible solutions to customers. JDM Technology Group companies include  CavSoft, CSSP, CostCon, LEVESYS, Nimbus, Plusfactor, PowerCad and Spearhead Software in Australia and New Zealand; AerieHub, AllMax Software, Builder Software Tools, Computer Guidance Corporation, Conest Software, Degama Systems, Deneb Software, Explorer Software, EPAC, IndustrySmarts, JOBPOWER, Maestro Technologies, MicroMain Corporation, Mobile-Punch, MPulse Software, Penta Technologies, STRUXI, TeamWORKS, and Vision InfoSoft in North America;  and Estimate, Integrity, RedSkyIT, Rendra, and Safran in the UK, Europe and the Middle East.

About Computer Guidance Corporation
Computer Guidance Corporation provides the leading construction ERP solution, supporting financial management, project management, business intelligence, mobile solutions, and enterprise content management. Scalable, customizable, and cloud-hosted, CGC supports thousands of users across North America. CGC is part of the JDM Technology Group, a global network of construction software makers that serves more than 500,000 users in 40 countries.

 

Computer Guidance Corporation Recognized as a Top Construction Technology Firm by Construction Executive Magazine

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Scottsdale, Arizona—October 15, 2024 — Computer Guidance Corporation, a leader in cloud-based ERP solutions for the construction industry, is excited to announce that it has been named one of Construction Executive magazine’s Top Construction Technology Firms for 2024.

Construction Executive, one of the best-known publications in the industry, publishes its list of Top Construction Technology firms in its Sept./Oct. 2024 issue. Hundreds of companies submitted details about their offerings via a nomination form that collected detailed information including: 1) the firm’s product offerings specific to the AEC industry; 2) the user profile (type and size of firm for which each product is recommended); 3) how each product is sold (by seat, user, license and/or project, etc.); and 4) the number of active users within the past 12 months (by individual users and/or companies). There was no fee to participate and not every firm that completed the nomination form made this curated list. For more information, contact surveys@magazinexperts.com.

After sorting through the submissions, the magazine highlighted the top firms, and Computer Guidance Corporation made the cut.

Computer Guidance Corporation earned recognition in multiple Technology Product Categories, including Accounting and Job Costing, Document Management/Document Imaging, Enterprise Resource Planning (ERP), Financial Technology (Invoicing, Payments, Payroll, Lien Waivers, Tax, etc.), as well as Project Management, Collaboration, and Scheduling.

“We’re truly honored to be recognized as a top provider of construction management software by Construction Executive magazine,” said Michael Bihlmeier, President of Computer Guidance Corporation. “Our eCMS ERP solution helps contractors achieve better productivity and profitability and improved efficiency by serving up highly usable real-time business insights.”

As a company dedicated exclusively to construction, Computer Guidance Corporation brings decades of industry knowledge combined with the latest technology to help commercial contractors streamline their workflows and boost efficiency.

With clients ranging from $25 million to $500 billion in revenue, CGC’s solutions serve a wide variety of general contractors, specialty contractors, and heavy/highway contractors. The company works closely with its clients through collaborative initiatives like product advisory groups and user conferences to ensure its technology continues to meet the evolving needs of the industry.

About Computer Guidance Corporation
Computer Guidance Corporation provides the leading construction ERP solution, supporting financial management, project management, business intelligence, mobile solutions, and enterprise content management. Scalable, customizable, and cloud-hosted, CGC supports thousands of users across North America. CGC is part of the JDM Technology Group, a global network of construction software makers that serves more than 500,000 users in 40 countries.

 

The Competitive Edge: Why Specialty Contractors Are Embracing ERP Software

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Specialty contractors face unique challenges that set them apart from other entities in the construction industry. These contractors, who include electrical, HVAC (heating, ventilation, and air conditioning), plumbing, and telecommunications professionals, perform highly specialized tasks requiring advanced skill sets. With modern projects becoming increasingly complex, labor shortages in the industry, and the growing need for better communications, specialty contractors are turning to ERP (enterprise-resource planning) software to help enhance productivity and streamline operations.

Who Are Specialty Contractors?

These contractors have specialized expertise, which differentiates them from general contractors. From electrical installations to IT networking, these professionals tackle highly technical tasks. Some specialty contractors are self-employed, and often work as subcontractors on large projects overseen by general contractors or heavy highway contractors. Since their work is labor-intensive rather than being heavily dependent on equipment, labor management is a critical aspect of their operations.

Effective communication and collaboration are essential to manage successful projects. Without the right tools, miscommunication and poor project tracking can lead to delays, costly errors, and client dissatisfaction. But ERP systems, which provide comprehensive, integrated technology solutions, can address these challenges head on.

Addressing Key Challenges with ERP Solutions

ERP software helps businesses manage a wide range of processes in a unified system. For specialty contractors, ERP provides specific tools to manage everything from job costing and service management to payroll and labor productivity.

One key challenge for specialty contractors is managing labor productivity. ERP software helps specialty contractors track labor productivity in realtime and ensure teams operate effectively while controlling costs.

ERP systems also provide valuable service management features, including mobile field data collection, service billing, and job costing. These critical tools enable contractors to manage ongoing maintenance contracts or provide emergency services and ensure service teams have the information they need whether they’re in the office or on site.

Streamlining Payroll and Financial Management

For construction professionals handling distributed labor, managing payroll is one of the most significant administrative tasks. They often deal with complex payroll requirements, such as multi-state, multi-union payrolls, while adhering to compliance regulations like Davis-Bacon and Worker’s Compensation. ERP systems simplify these complexities and provide accurate payroll solutions that meet industry standards.

In addition to payroll, ERP software also helps streamline core accounting functions such as accounts payable, accounts receivable, and general ledger management. It handles job costing, which allows specialty contractors better visibility of project finances so they can stay profitable.

Enhancing Content Management

One of the most exciting elements of ERP software for specialty contractors is its document management capabilities. Specialty contractors generate and manage vast amounts of paper documents, from invoices to customer service records. The OCR (optical character recognition) technology, which has gained widespread adoption in the construction industry, allows contractors to digitize and automate the management of these documents.

Document management systems integrated into ERP platforms are a centralized location for storing and accessing documents. These systems enable key stakeholders to find the information they need quickly and accurately, which eliminates wasted time, human error, and duplicated efforts. For specialty contractors working as subcontractors, clear and consistent communication with general contractors and project owners is crucial for keeping projects on track, and document management is key to staying on top of project communication.

Future Technologies: AI and Prefabrication

Looking forward, the role of AI (artificial intelligence) and other advanced technologies like prefabrication and 3D modeling will only grow in the construction industry. AI is already reshaping how businesses handle information and manage resources. With an expected annual growth rate of 37.3% from 2023 to 2030, AI is set to revolutionize industries like construction by increasing productivity, improving decision-making processes, and streamlining operations. More than 60% of business owners believe AI will increase productivity. Specifically, 64% state AI would improve business productivity, and 42% believe it will streamline job processes.

Many specialty contractors are already adopting prefabrication and 3D modeling, which allows for greater precision and efficiency in project planning and execution. The integration of AI into these processes allows for enhanced data analysis and decision-making, offering contractors insights into project timelines, cost estimates, and potential risks.

Conclusion

As the construction industry moves to adopt more technology solutions into everyday processes, specialty contractors may find the right ERP system is no longer a luxury—it’s a necessity. From addressing labor shortages and cash flow issues to enhancing communication and collaboration, ERP software empowers specialty contractors to stay competitive in a fast-changing landscape. By embracing these technologies, specialty contractors can continue to deliver high-quality work while improving their operational efficiency and profitability.

With advancements in AI, document management, and other cutting-edge technologies, specialty contractors can lead the way in the digital transformation of the construction industry.

About the Author

Victoria Satran, VP of marketing – Victoria Satran leads Computer Guidance Corporation’s marketing efforts, including marketing communications, public relations, events, lead generation efforts, and business development.

A Productive Future: ERP Technology in Heavy Highway and Civil Construction Projects

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The increasing use of technology by heavy highway and civil contracting companies is defining a new level of success. Heavy highway companies, which are often referred to as heavy or civil contractors, manage large-scale infrastructure projects such as roads, bridges, tunnels, ports, and airports. With significant resource demands and increasing operational challenges, integrating advanced technology, specifically Construction Cloud systems, is proving to be a game-changer.

What Is Heavy Highway Construction and What’s at Stake?

Heavy highway and civil construction projects are challenging because of their vast scope and intricate requirements. Unlike commercial construction, which focuses on buildings or structures used in business, heavy highway and civil projects usually involve detailed engineering activities and heavy machinery. These projects—ranging from bridge and tunnel construction to major excavation and underground work—require meticulous management of costs for equipment, materials, and labor to maintain project profitability.

Critical Labor Shortages Affect Heavy Highway Companies

According to Associated Builders and Contractors, the broader construction industry faces a critical labor shortage, with projections indicating a potential shortfall of up to half a million skilled workers in 2024. This shortage is already having significant impacts, with more than 88% of construction companies reporting difficulties finding sufficient workers, and 60% of construction companies say these shortages are directly delaying project timelines, ultimately costing companies money. More than a quarter of construction workers are over the age of 55, raising concerns that the shortage will worsen as fewer younger workers enter the trades.

Why Does Technology Make Sense for Heavy Highway Contractors?

With low margins for error, long project timelines, the need to closely track and manage project materials and available equipment, software can help heavy highway construction companies meet scheduling and budget goals. Here are some of the challenges software can address:

  • Labor management: Efficient payroll processing, timecard tracking, and compliance with regulatory requirements are critical. ERP (enterprise resource planning) systems provide robust solutions for managing labor costs, tracking hours, and handling payroll for both union and non-union workers.
  • Materials and equipment oversight: Managing the lifecycle of materials and equipment—from procurement to maintenance—is complex and costly. ERP solutions streamline these processes, offering tools for plant sales, bill of materials, equipment accounting, and scheduling maintenance.
  • Financial and job costing: Precise job costing, budgeting, and financial forecasting are fundamental to profitability for heavy highways and civil projects. ERP systems offer detailed tracking and analysis of project costs, which help contractors operate efficiently and stay on top of their project’s financial performance.

Benefits of ERP Systems for Heavy Highway Contractors

Implementing a comprehensive ERP platform designed for the needs of heavy highway contractors can revolutionize operations. Here’s how:

  • Unified information system: An ERP solution consolidates project data into a single source of truth, which provides realtime updates for your entire team and reduces data duplication. What’s more, this integration improves reporting accuracy and decision-making.
  • Mobile integration: Your field staff benefit from mobile-enabled, cloud-based ERP solutions, which allows them to easily and quickly enter data and access realtime updates. Mobile connectivity helps heavy highway companies bridge the gap between field operations and office management.
  • Enhanced collaboration: ERP systems facilitate digital collaboration by sharing documents and project information seamlessly between departments and across teams. This enhances coordination, speeds up approvals, and supports proactive project management.
  • Advanced analytics: ERP platforms equipped with analytics tools enable contractors to track performance, manage change orders, and forecast costs more precisely. These insights help leaders make informed decisions and address potential issues proactively.

Future Trends in Heavy Civil Construction Technology

Looking ahead, here are several trends that will impact the heavy highway and civil construction sectors:

  • Telematics and GPS: These technologies offer realtime tracking of equipment and performance metrics, providing actionable insights into operational efficiency.
  • Modeling and 3D printing: Advanced modeling techniques and 3D printing will transform design and construction processes, as well as enhance project precision and efficiency.
  • Drones: Drones can transform project monitoring by capturing progress, documenting project status, and integrating with ERP systems for comprehensive data management.
  • AI (artificial Intelligence): AI is emerging as a transformative force in construction. AI-powered analytics can predict safety issues, analyze material price trends, and identify supply chain disruptions, providing valuable foresight and improving project management.

In summary, the integration of Construction Cloud ERP software and other advanced technologies is becoming essential for heavy highway and civil contractors. By embracing these innovations, contractors can enhance their operational efficiency, streamline project management, and maintain a competitive edge in an evolving industry landscape.

Search for Optimal Features

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Search for Optimal Features

why your construction business needs ERP software

Successful commercial contractors have turned to new technologies like ERP software for construction to make their operations more efficient and more productive. ERP Software, which stands for Enterprise Resource Planning software, helps contractors manage day-to-day-accounting, financial planning, and project management processes.

As the backbone of commercial construction IT infrastructure, ERP software facilitates seamless communication and coordination across departments, automates workflows, and provides valuable analytic and insights so leaders can make informed decisions when it matters. Amid evolving technology and increasingly complex business needs, contractors need ERP software that’s flexible, reliable, and made for the specific needs of the construction industry.

We’ll examine the optimal features that commercial contractors should look out for when evaluating an ERP solution that will support their businesses.

Access Anywhere and Anytime

Most ERP solutions provide real-time, browser-based access to applications and integrated data (a single source of truth). This means that users who are in the field, office, or on the move can perform their daily tasks without interruption. Every member of your team can view the same data and manage critical business processes seamlessly. Tasks like checking off items on a list, approving processes and payments, assigning workflows, and collaborating with owners, project managers, and the finance team can be accomplished within a single system. Using a single database allows you to eliminate department silos, reduce time consuming duplicate data entry, and streamline labor-intensive processes. It allows access to real-time data and enhances communication among key stakeholders.

Interactive user interfaces (UIs) on top of a single database platform drive productivity and efficiency because users can quickly, securely, and dynamically view data. Finally, the ease of data availability provides valuable information to guide important decisions.

Business Intelligence and Analytics

Most ERPs offer some level of business intelligence capabilities, but the best ERPs deliver critical data in a visually understandable format, regardless of its complexity. An effective ERP provides its own business intelligence and analytics software, without relying solely on third-party tools to access information from the database. It presents data in an easily understandable format that can be reported on without needing extensive reporting skills. Users can access reporting and data views anywhere and anytime. They can also easily create their own data views and dashboards, leading to significant productivity gains and smarter business decisions.

Streamlining with Workflows

In the right setting, workflows automate all processes, eliminating paper-based, manually intensive administrative tasks. They unify departments to accomplish approvals, mitigate risks, and capture and share documents using data from a single database platform. Folders can be used to search, store, capture, and assign documents into workflows, supported by enterprise-class content management systems on top of the database. These content management solutions with workflows offer a one-stop shop experience where content is organized and stored, and correspondence is shared, stored, and captured for future use.

The Power of Forms

Forms are often overlooked, but they are a powerful tool for collecting information from the field in an electronic format. This input is delivered directly into the ERP database tables, where it can be used for reporting, workflows, accounting, and more. Forms can eliminate many manual processes and duplicated efforts, allowing for greater financial control and more accurate forecasting.

API Integrations

Even the most feature-rich ERP may need to connect with specialized applications like certified payroll processing or bid estimates and management. The right ERP solution offers real-time, two-way API-based integration with third-party solutions. An API integration can add significant value to the company’s operations and financial management activities.

Overall Value

Not all ERP software is valuable for contractors. Some lack construction-specific features, others aren’t flexible enough to support unique business processes, and some fail to present business-critical data in an easily accessible, understandable, and reportable format. The right ERP empowers users to perform their daily tasks efficiently by providing access to real-time data and dynamic workflows. It allows businesses to customize the ERP applications to fit their processes and strategies, rather than forcing them to change how they operate due to the software’s limitations.

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