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Architecture Accounting Software
What is Architecture Accounting Software?
Architectural accounting software tracks costs by individual job and records client information. Since billing for services is usually measured in units of time, the software is usually equipped with time-logging abilities and the ability to allocate time to different projects and clients. In-depth analysis should also be available from breaking down each project into organized steps within a set schedule. Time can be designated as either billable or non-billable.
Architecture-Specific Functionality
In addition to core accounting modules such as the general ledger, accounts receivable and accounts payable, architecture accounting software typically includes the following:
| Project & Department Management | Architecture firms need to manage lengthy design projects. By automating scheduling, allocating resources, and budgeting and forecasting, firms can better ensure accurate proposals and effective use of employees. |
| Time Billing | Time and billing modules use timesheets and expense reports to funnel back into the project plan the actual costs, billable time, and non-billable time spent. This ensures accuracy in billing and in estimating for future projects and helps maximize cost recovery. |
| Customer Relationship Management | Customer relationship management (CRM) software supports lead development, marketing campaigns, and customer service by using a comprehensive database to track prospects and current/past clients. Architecture firms get most of their business from the referrals and developed relationships, CRM is critical for long-term success. |
| Document Sharing & Development | Secure document collaboration allows sharing information of projects, clients, and other records between the relevant employees. Document management could also include proposal automation, which will help the user develop high quality proposals and increase closing rates. |
| Audit Trail | Architecture accounting software should track and organize expenses and individual project steps in case of a mistake in billing or an expense that qualifies for client reimbursement. |
Evaluating Architectural Accounting Software
Like some other industry packages, architectural accounting software benefits from specific report-writing mechanisms which can deliver descriptive progress and billing documents to a client. The size of the firm will have a big impact on the software needs. For example, a larger firm, dealing with multiple projects and employees, will need more robust project and time tracking capabilities than an individual freelancer.
When evaluating architectural accounting software, buyers should consider the following:
- Can the system log hours and mark as billable or non-billable?
- How deep are the project scheduling/progress tracking capabilities?
- Can the system effectively manage costs and progress for multiple projects at once?
- Does the software come with solid report-writing mechanisms?
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Deltek Vision
Deltek Vision is project management ERP software specifically designed for architectural firms needing to track a variety of projects and contract types.
Sage 300 ERP (formerly Sage ERP Accpac)
With scalable functionality designed specifically for small and medium-sized organizations, Sage 300 ERP delivers the accounting technology your firm needs, as well as customer relationship and human resources management.
Sage 100 Standard and Advanced ERP (formerly Sage ERP MAS 90 and 200)
Running on Windows OS, Sage ERP MAS 90 and 200 offers architectural firms the flexibility of modular functionality to meet their accounting and financial management needs. This scalable ERP system is great for growing firms.
Intacct Financials and Accounting System
This web-based financial management system boasts broad set of functionality ideal for small to mid-sized architectural firms. Applications for core accounting, time & expenses, revenue management, project accounting, and more.
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NetSuite Financials
NetSuite Financials is a fully-integrated ERP solution suitable for small architectural partner firms as well as larger operations. NetSuite can track project profitability, monitor employee time and generate expense reports.
Sage 500 ERP (formerly Sage ERP MAS 500)
Sage is one of the world's biggest providers of enterprise software. They offer many accounting systems to support different sizes and types of organizations. Sage 500 ERP is suitable for medium and large architectural companies.
Oracle JD Edwards - Accounting
Architectural firms are among the many accounting verticals that JD Edwards EnterpriseOne can service. EnterpriseOne supports budgeting and forecasting, time billing, project management and has features for project collaboration.
SAP Business One
SAP Business One fits well with most architecture firms needs as it can track time and billing for multiple projects at once. It can also help manage workflow and create work reports.
Microsoft Dynamics NAV
Known for being highly customizable and able to support various industries--including architecture--Microsoft Dynamics NAV is an ERP suite ideal for mid-sized organizations. Integrates accounting with spread of business functions.
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