Data storage & analysis
Most contractors discover that storing job cost data in a spreadsheet is by far easier than trying to work within the constraints of their accounting systems. Accounting packages are not designed to let you analyze data across multiple projects. If you do store your data in your accounting system, export it to a spreadsheet before trying to analyze it.

Once in the spreadsheet, group and sort the data. Put it into charts and tables (have someone set up Pivot Tables, they're a great tool for this task). Look for trends and averages. Update your estimating and scheduling based on the results your information reveals.

Conclusion
Job costing is a hot button with contractors. If you don't know how fast your crews work, sooner or later you are going to dig yourself a financial hole that is very difficult to crawl out of.

If you want your concrete construction business to produce a predictable profit, you must accept the headaches associated with job costing. Job costing systems are very, very difficult to get right. Unfortunately, they are also essential to survival in the construction industry!

em>Ron Roberts, The Contractor's Business Coach, teaches contractors how to turn their businesses into profit spewing machines. To receive Ron's FREE Contractor Best Practices Newsletter visit www.FilthyRichContractor.com.