Construction management can be such a time consuming and challenging affair that it is necessary to use all the tools available for success. One of these is software, and there are many different types available. You can save money with free software, but it is important to understand that the word “free” sometimes does not mean what you would expect. In fact, there may be a few costs that you were not aware of when you downloaded it. Here are some of the costs that these providers may not inform you of upfront.
- Customer support: no matter how good a software is, you may encounter a few problems, or have some difficulty learning how to use it. It should come as no surprise that getting assistance will cost you. Otherwise, you could spend a lot of time trying to find answers on your own, and this information may not be 100% accurate. Paying for assistance might be a good idea, but it can be costly if you have to use this service often.
- It is too basic: it is no secret that the best software can address the specific needs of the user, and this kind of flexibility does not come cheap. With free software, you might find that the basic type does not meet all your needs, and you have to pay for an upgrade. You might be taken in by a few attractive features, but find that the ones you really need are not free.
- The need for updates: any software can become outdated or need patches at some point to deal with issues. While software might be free at first, the provider might not offer updates and patches for free. The cost for each update might not be high, but it can add up if you have to do it frequently.
- Hampers productivity: with a construction project, it is important to keep all involved on the same page. The best software products come with the tools that make this possible. This is not the case with free software as the producers have to save money during the design process. Otherwise, no one would pay for the more efficient options.
None of this means that you should not attempt to use free software for a construction project. If you understand the limitations, you will be able to make adjustments. Sometimes the upgrade to a paid version is not high is you had previously downloaded the free version, so this option is still worth considering. Give us a call at 407-316-8544 to discuss your upcoming construction project or to request the services of one of our construction project managers.