Owner’s representative software is one of the best modern tools available to owners and their representatives today. A good software package designed for owner reps can make every part of the process easier.
However, the good news is that many other resources can help planners manage nearly any project more successfully.
It’s never been easier to access tools and information related to construction projects. Whether you’re looking to learn, find the latest best practices, or something else, there’s a good chance the resources you need are already available.
In this article, we’ll examine organizations, associations, Owner’s representative software, digital tools, magazines, podcasts, and more. So, let’s jump right in.
COAA - Construction Owner's Association of America
The Construction Owner’s Association of America was founded in 1994 and is celebrating its 30th anniversary.
The organization develops and implements best practices and processes that empower construction project professionals, property owners, and key stakeholders. It offers training and education, networking opportunities, and owner-specific resources.
The COAA also publishes a digital magazine called Owners Perspective, an excellent read for anyone involved in the ownership side of the construction process.
APPA - Association of Physical Plant Administrators
APPA has existed in some form since 1914. It was known as the Association of Superintendents of Buildings and Grounds. Later, it became the Association of Physical Plant Administrators, or APPA. Today, it’s just APPA—the organization dedicated to Leadership in Educational Facilities.
Suppose you’re an owner’s representative, school board member, or anyone else involved in constructing, renovating, or maintaining schools, universities, or other educational facilities. In that case, this organization is a treasure trove of information and resources.
APPA also publishes Facilities Manager Magazine, which should be on your reading list.
Design-Build Institute of America
As an owner’s representative, keeping your finger on the pulse of what’s happening in the construction industry is a good idea. Since so many modern projects fall into the design-build space, this is a great place to learn more about this kind of construction project.
We recommend visiting the DBIA resource center, which includes links to its blog and podcast, as well as downloadable contracts, books, other publications, and industry research.
The Building Green Knowledge Base
If you are an owner’s representative looking for more information about green and sustainable buildings, the Building Green website’s knowledge base is another must-visit resource.
This vast collection of green building information includes everything from the latest building codes to materials and material selection information, design tips, case studies, and more.
The American Arbitration Association
No one wants to get into disputes during any construction project, but sometimes, no matter what you do, you can’t avoid them.
Whether you’ve found yourself in a dispute on a project or you want to learn more about dispute resolution in general, the American Arbitration Association is a fantastic place to learn more, and we recommend visiting their resources page to find links to reports, rules of practice, cost and fee information and more.
Additionally, if you’re in Texas and need legal help, we recommend talking to West Mermis, PLLC. They focus on construction law and have extensive experience handling disputes through negotiation, arbitration, or court. Their team can guide you through the process and ensure your interests are protected for the best possible outcome, even before you need them—a short video (3 minutes) to educate you about rebalancing your risk as an Owner.
Construction Litigation Hold
A website that provides information about your document retention requirements for the state you reside in, legal statutes of repose, and limitations.
Cost Overrun Calculator
This free online post-mortem project evaluation tool calculator assists project managers and owners in uncovering issues that typically lead to schedule slippage or cost overruns.
Owner Insite
Knowledge is power, and the resources, tools, and publications mentioned here will equip you to manage every project and handle every issue better.
However, project management is still a complex process, and it’s even more complicated for project owners, who are only sometimes directly involved in the planning and executing the work.
That’s precisely why we created Owner Insite: so that construction project owners and their representatives have an easy-to-use platform focused on the things that matter most. We have seen overwhelming success when Owners have, in writing, their software platform for the official communication record for their project. All stakeholders will have tools to aid them, and the Owner should also have them. After all, it’s their vision, project, risk, and funding.
An Explosion of Construction Technology
The websites, resources, and tools mentioned here are just a tiny sample of what is out there for construction project owners and their representatives.
There’s been an explosion in construction technology and resources over the past decade, and there are so many new tools, platforms, blogs, podcasts, and more out there that you can find nearly anything you can imagine quickly and easily.
Finding the right combination of tools and resources can also make a massive difference to every project. So spend some time researching resources, and if you still need to find the right Owner’s representative software or you’re still trying to make do with spreadsheets, emails, and paper, consider booking a call with our team.
We’re always happy to help; the right construction technology for your role can be a game changer.
