The goal of Project Modeling is to effectively transform the way projects are built. With Project Modeling, project managers and salespeople can not only build projects faster, but also ensure accuracy through models that encapsulate best practices. Projects can run smoother because they are built on better plans.
This is the second blog in the Project Modeling series (see the first blog here). This blog will take a deep dive into the business benefits of Project Modeling.
As part of a Project Business Automation solution, project-based companies (i.e. construction, engineering, ETO manufacturing, professional services, etc.) can benefit significantly from the overall impact of Project Modeling, delivering more projects on time and within budget.
Download the Project Business Automation Blueprint to learn how PBA creates a streamlined, comprehensive system for project-based companies.
Here are some major advantages of using Project Modeling versus the traditional approach of building a project step by step, or by copying and pasting a project or template
Increases Speed
Oftentimes, the traditional route of building a project can take hours or even days, seeing as the project manager has to construct and/or edit each task and gather information from various stakeholders to build the project plan and cost estimates. This task is very time consuming.
With a Project Modeler, a user can configure an entire project in minutes through predefined components and rules. Anyone, from a salesperson to a project manager to an engineer can build an accurate project plan and estimate in a few clicks. Cost and price estimates, schedules, and Gantt charts are created instantly after configuring and inserting a model into a project.
Strengthen Governance
Project Modeling increases project business governance. By encapsulating and scaling best practices across the company and from the beginning of the sales cycle, they reduce human error. Salespeople utilizing the Project Modeler to build quotes and proposals are able to create the optimal plan right from the start.
Think about it, since the plans presented in sales proposals are based on accurate models representing the best processes, the transition from sales to execution is seamless. Project Modeling allows sales and operations to be aligned right from the beginning, ensuring the best possible plan is proposed and executed against. This reduces errors and changes as the project progresses.
Improve the Sales Process
As mentioned in the previous blog, project success starts with sales. Project Modeling helps teams generate the right numbers as soon as they engage with prospects. This means project proposals are not guesses. They are accurate representations of the project that will be performed. That said, sales teams can expect to:
- Reduce or eliminate poor project plans
- Accelerate response times
- Increase sales capacity
Reduce Rework
No one wants to have to fix mistakes or do double the work down the road. Better project planning from the start eliminates the potential for issues later on. Oftentimes, project sales teams promise costs or schedules they think are reasonable at the time, but these expectations cannot be met by the execution team. Eliminate this confusion by using Project Models that represent accurate project work. This means you can promise customers reasonable prices and schedules that operations can adhere to.
Enhance Collaboration
Teamwork is critical to project success. Only when sales and operations teams work like a well-oiled machine can projects be delivered on time and on budget. By using standardized Project Models, companies can improve collaboration. Since each project utilizes standard components and processes, project managers, planners and controllers are familiar with how all projects work across the company. As a result, they can move from one project to another more easily.
Build Projects Faster, With More Control
Not only does Project Modeling make building projects faster, but it makes the best possible process repeatable by everyone. When you have better project plans, you have better outcomes. Creating a streamlined and controlled planning and estimating process right from the start only sets your Project Business up for success.
Download the Project Modeling Whitepaper to learn how to create a streamlined and controlled planning and estimating process for your company.
The next blog in this series will discuss the difference between Project Templates and Project Models.
