DDK launches bespoke Construction Management System

Cloud-based technology facilitates revolutionary approach to construction management

DDK has heavily invested in the design and development of a bespoke software solution that distils decades of project management experience into a comprehensive Construction Management System (CMS) created specifically for construction projects.

The cloud-based CMS is revolutionary within the construction industry, creating a single source of truth that removes opportunities for error and allows for seamless delivery of projects at any scale.

The CMS brings together a number of different systems in an integrated and efficient way so that information can easily be updated, interrogated and transmitted externally. It reduces the paperwork burden on site teams while enabling more detailed record keeping, document management and compliance auditing.

The system contains a project information portal which houses drawings, documents, images, schedules, READ logs, planner, calendar and so on. Over time, this becomes a comprehensive document archive with phased amendments overlaid onto drawings and site progress images creating a 360-degree project timelapse.

The scheduling tool within the CMS breaks the project down into different stages from strategic definition through to handover and use. Each stage programme is then rolled up into the master schedule with full linkage between predecessors and successors​ from design through to tendering, procurement, mobilization and construction.

Each project material requirement is broken down into phases from drawings to manufacture and delivery with clear lead times listed for each phase. In practice, this means that once a programme of works has been written for a specific job, the system will automatically generate a detailed schedule for tendering and procurement to ensure on-time delivery of materials to site and effective programme management.

A proprietary project resource library has been developed within the CMS covering areas such as health and safety recording, site management, project support resources and sub-contractor management, simplifying the process of setting up each new project.

Project controls and reporting are facilitated through the CMS thanks to the automated links between systems. A linked smartphone app allows for data to be entered remotely and assimilated across the project through powerful automation. For example, permit forms can be submitted through the smartphone app and transferred immediately to the dashboard through the CMS.

Clients have access to the CMS through a project intranet so that detailed information and reporting is available at the touch of a button. Upon project completion, this becomes a comprehensive digital record that facilitates any future audit requirements.

Tim Dixon, Director of DDK, says “we have always had a very transparent approach and a unique construction methodology, however this new investment in technology allows our clients to monitor progress in greater detail than ever. The system also removes any opportunities for error thanks to its automated scheduling tool that ensures all required materials are purchased on time every time.”