This post is brought to you by BQE Core.

Having wonderful employees and great clients is vital. But the most significant component of running an AEC practice is project management. Having the best clients and most dedicated professional staff won’t do your firm any good if you and your team can’t make a profit on your projects.

Here are three maxims to follow if you want your firm to be even better at project management.

1. Stay Within Scope

Your firm and the client must be crystal-clear on the work that is to be completed. Spell everything out. Your project management software should highlight each phase of the project and what will be accomplished during it.

Staying within scope doesn’t mean that change orders should be avoided at all costs. They are, in fact, a part of life for architecture firms. But if something in a project needs altered, there must be a process, and everyone should understand why the change is being made. The modification needs to be agreed upon and spelled out by both parties before it’s undertaken.

2. You Need to Get Paid

Most disagreements over money are because of surprises, not how high your fees are. Don’t overlook this important phase of project management during the planning stages with your client.

There are many different forms that project fees can take: Is the overall project fee based on hours worked by your firm or a flat fee? Should you ask for a deposit? Are multiple payments expected from the client based on a percentage of project completion?

When the client is ready to sign the contract, make sure that they’ve read all the details. While they might understand the overall estimated cost, it’s possible that they haven’t paid attention to certain standard fees in case of excess work or expenses. When you can, read through the contract with them in person. Otherwise, make sure it’s discussed in full over the phone.

Afterwards, provide the client with frequent updates that highlight which project phases have been completed and when the next payment is expected. The most effective way to avoid surprises is to constantly communicate with your client.

3. Track and Analyze Everything

If you want a clear picture of how your project is shaping up, make sure you diligently track your time, expenses, and other data. Look for an accounting and project management platform that’s both powerful and easy to use, like BQE Core.

When you work with intuitive and comprehensive software, you can turn your data into real-time insights that actually help you manage your projects. When you can learn your project’s earned value, work in progress, profitability, utilization, and so on at a moment’s notice, you’ll know what actions you need to take.

While there’s much more to project management than just three rules, these principles are central to completing your projects on time and on budget.

About BQE Core:

BQE Core sets the standard for billing, time & expenses, project management, and accounting software for professional services. 

Made by award-winning BQE Software, it gives professionals the speed, flexibility, and visibility they need to accelerate productivity, boost profits, and spend more time doing what they love. Core boasts comprehensive dashboards, native mobile apps, in-depth reports, a bevy of customizable features, and a revolutionary pricing structure.

To learn more about BQE Core or schedule a walk-through demonstration today, visit www.bqe.com/core.