New research from Dodge Construction Network and CMiC highlights the measurable benefits of enterprise resource planning (ERP) systems for construction contractors.
Two complementary studies — The Value of ERP for General Contractors and The Value of ERP for Specialty Trade Contractors — found that firms using ERP consistently report stronger performance across project management and workforce efficiency compared to those relying on alternative tools.
Among the findings:
- 79% of general contractors using ERP rate their project controls as highly effective, compared with 38% of non-users.
- 71% of specialty trade ERP users effectively manage crew time, compared with 43% using other systems.
- More than twice as many ERP-enabled general contractors say they are highly data-driven compared to those without ERP.
- Satisfaction is high, with 88% of GC users and 77% of trade users reporting overall satisfaction with their ERP platform.
The studies also show that integration plays a key role in ERP value. Between 60% and 90% of general contractors integrate external data into their ERP systems, while more than half of specialty trade contractors do so across several core functions.
Despite the advantages, many firms are not yet using ERP to its full capacity. Fewer than 70% of contractors with access to specific ERP functions report using them, with many still relying on spreadsheets or manual processes.
The research suggests that expanding ERP adoption and integration can drive greater efficiency, visibility, and profitability across the industry.
