- NetSuite, Sage, Sage Intacct
Effective project controls are essential in the construction industry to ensure projects are delivered on time, within budget, and aligned with partner expectations. Without strong tracking, and real-time visibility, projects can quickly spiral out of control, leading to financial losses, reputational damage, and significant delays.Â
Many construction businesses still operate with fragmented systems, relying on spreadsheets and manual processes. This disconnected approach increases the risk of errors, data duplication, and limited real-time visibility, resulting in project delays, financial inefficiencies, and operational challenges.Â
Without a centralised ERP system, project control can become disjointed, making scope creep more likely and overall project management more difficult. In such cases, tracking financial performance and maintaining control becomes a challenge.Â
This blog explores the importance of project controls in construction and how ERP systems like NetSuite and Sage Intacct enhance project delivery, transparency, accountability, and visibility from initiation to completion.Â
Key Elements of Effective Project ControlsÂ
Project controls rely on strong governance, real-time visibility, accurate data, and efficient processes. An integrated ERP system provides a centralised platform to manage all aspects of a project seamlessly.Â
Proactive forecasting and detailed reporting, powered by real-time data and analytics, help prevent common challenges such as scope creep, budget overruns, and project mismanagement. Standardised workflows and automation reduce manual errors, while seamless communication across project sites ensures that issues are identified and addressed early.
Governance and Administration: The Foundation of Project SuccessÂ
For construction companies and contractors, robust governance and strong administrative processes are critical for successful project delivery. Without structured project controls, businesses risk poor communication, lack of accountability, financial inefficiencies, and project delays.Â
Governance establishes clear roles and responsibilities, ensuring that project managers, on-site teams, and stakeholders are aligned with project objectives. A structured administrative framework supports decision-making by integrating compliance, risk management, and budget control into daily operations.Â
For projects involving multiple stakeholders, large teams, subcontractors, and suppliers, a coordinated approach ensures efficiency, accountability, and consistent communication throughout the project lifecycle.Â
The Role of Reporting and Real-Time VisibilityÂ
Regular reporting, analytics, and real-time visibility are essential for maintaining control over large construction projects. Without frequent progress updates and financial tracking, potential issues may go unnoticed until they escalate into major problems.Â
High-profile project failures often stem from mismanagement due to a lack of consistent reporting. Organisations that implement an ERP system gain access to:Â
• Full financial visibility – Track expenditures in real time, providing accurate insights into financial performance.Â
• Real-time reporting – Project managers, teams, and stakeholders receive timely updates on progress, risks, and budget status.Â
• Clear accountability – ERP systems provide transparency into potential issues and delays, ensuring that all stakeholders understand their roles and responsibilities.Â
How ERP Systems Improve Transparency and Accountability Â
ERP solutions such as NetSuite and Sage Intacct provide a single source of truth for construction projects. These systems centralise budget management, resource allocation, risk tracking, and compliance monitoring, leading to greater control and fewer inefficiencies. Key benefits include:Â
1. Financial Performance TrackingÂ
• Monitor budget versus actual costs in real timeÂ
• Identify financial inefficiencies and prevent budget overrunsÂ
• Automate expense tracking and invoice approvals to minimise manual errorsÂ
2. Enhanced VisibilityÂ
• Access real-time project data via a dashboard displaying key performance indicators (KPIs)Â
• Maintain a documented audit trail for financial transactions and project changesÂ
• Improve supply chain management by tracking procurement and delivery schedulesÂ
3. Comprehensive Progress ReportingÂ
• Generate real-time progress reports to monitor project timelines and milestonesÂ
• Identify potential delays and bottlenecks before they impact project schedulesÂ
• Provide key stakeholders with up-to-date insights to support informed decision-makingÂ
Addressing Scope Creep and Risk Management  Â
Scope creep, where projects expand beyond their original plan without proper controls is a major challenge in construction. Without effective project controls, unexpected changes can lead to delays and budget issues.Â
ERP systems help manage scope creep by:Â
• Tracking and approving change requests before implementationÂ
• Using historical data to forecast risks and mitigate potential issuesÂ
• Setting up automated alerts for project milestones, budget thresholds, and risk factorsÂ
The Value of Industry Expertise in ERP Implementation  Â
Effective project controls are crucial for improving efficiency, transparency, and profitability in construction. Implementing ERP software such as NetSuite or Sage Intacct enables businesses to achieve real-time financial tracking, enhance project visibility, and proactively manage risks. In an industry where delays and cost overruns can have major consequences, a centralised ERP system ensures that projects remain on track, budgets are maintained, and stakeholders stay informed.Â
Choosing the right ERP partner is key to success. Noledge is a trusted provider of ERP solutions, offering industry expertise and tailored support to help construction businesses implement the right system for their needs. Get in touch with us today to learn how we can support your business. Â
We will be exhibiting at the National Construction Summit in Blanchardstown in April and look forward to discussing how our ERP solutions can benefit your business. You can find us at stand I23, where we’ll be demonstrating how NetSuite and Sage Intacct can support your business with smarter financial and operational management. Â
About the Author
Anna Carolan
Anna is an experienced professional in project management and change management roles, with a focus on IT systems development and implementation. Currently serving as the Implementation Team Manager at OSSM, part for the Noledge Group, Anna assists in managing and implementing Enterprise Resource Planning (ERP) systems for large organisations and small-to-medium-sized companies.